Choosing between a monohull sailing boat and a catamaran is often one of the first questions boaters ask themselves when looking for a liveaboard vessel for long cruising. Each of these boats has its own specific advantages, depending on the intended use and the owner’s expectations.
The monohull, traditional and elegant, appeals with its direct contact with the sea and its ability to sail close to the wind, while the catamaran offers unmatched stability and comfort. To help you choose the boat that best suits your sailing plans, here is a detailed comparison of the main criteria to consider.
Comfort at Sea
Comfort on board is one of the most determining factors when choosing between a monohull and a catamaran. On this point, the catamaran stands out for its exceptional habitability. With its two hulls, it offers spacious living areas, both inside and outside. The saloon, often located on the main deck level, is roomy and bright, providing a panoramic view of the horizon. The cabins are spread out across each hull, ensuring greater privacy for passengers.
In contrast, the monohull is more compact. Its living spaces are smaller, and the saloon is often located below deck. However, it provides a closer connection to the sea and allows for the appreciation of charming marine interiors, often featuring warm, wooden elements. The choice between these two options will therefore depend on the desired level of comfort and the length of the planned navigations.
Stability
Stability is a fundamental criterion, especially for boaters prone to seasickness. The catamaran, with its twin hulls, offers great stability on the water. It heels very little, even in strong wind conditions, making sailing more comfortable, especially for those not accustomed to life at sea. This stability also provides better safety at anchor, with limited rolling.
The monohull, on the other hand, is designed to heel, meaning it leans under the effect of the wind. This tilt can be intimidating for beginners but is an integral part of the sailing experience on a monohull. Some boaters enjoy this sensation, which provides a direct connection to the elements. However, in rough seas, the rolling of the monohull can make the stay on board uncomfortable.
Maintenance
Maintenance is an often overlooked but very important aspect when choosing a boat. The catamaran, with its larger surface area and two hulls, requires more attention. During careening, the time spent cleaning and repainting the submerged parts (the underwater hull) is doubled. The maintenance cost is also higher, as it involves two engines, two rudders, and two steering systems.
The monohull, on the other hand, is simpler to maintain. Its careening cost is lower, and the number of systems to check is reduced. For an owner seeking simplicity and practicality, the monohull presents a clear advantage in terms of management and maintenance.
Berthing Space
The question of berthing space is an element to keep in mind, especially for catamarans. Due to their width, they occupy more space in a port, which can make finding a berth more complex and expensive. Many marinas do not have berths suitable for catamarans, and docking fees are often doubled compared to a monohull of the same size.
Monohulls, being narrower, benefit from better berth availability and lower berth costs. Their smaller size allows them to fit into narrower moorings, particularly in Mediterranean ports where space is limited during the high season.
Purchase Cost
The purchase cost is generally higher for a catamaran. At the same size, a catamaran can cost between 30% and 50% more than a monohull. This difference is due to the more complex structure of a multihull, the duplication of certain equipment (engines, rigging), and the larger surface area of some fittings.
The monohull is more affordable, making it a preferred choice for many boaters, whether for a first acquisition or a transitional boat. However, it is important to note that the depreciation of a catamaran is generally slower, making it a potentially more attractive long-term investment.
Speed
Contrary to popular belief, a catamaran is not necessarily slower than a monohull. When sailing downwind, the catamaran can reach impressive speeds thanks to its large sail area and its ability to plane on the water. Additionally, due to its low drag and shallow draft, it moves quickly in shallow waters and calm seas.
However, the monohull remains more efficient when sailing upwind. Its keel provides better pointing ability, allowing it to sail closer to the wind. Thrill-seekers will appreciate the heel and responsiveness of the monohull in strong winds.
Maneuvering
In terms of maneuverability, the two boats show notable differences. The catamaran, thanks to its two engines located in each hull, offers great maneuverability in port. It can pivot on itself, making docking and departing easier, even in tight spaces.
The monohull, on the other hand, can be more challenging to maneuver in port due to its single engine. Docking or anchoring maneuvers require more experience, especially when the wind is strong or space is limited. However, when sailing, the monohull remains easier to handle for solo sailors, with a helm that responds immediately to wind and sea changes.
Conclusion
Choosing between a monohull and a catamaran will ultimately depend on your sailing program and priorities. If you prioritize comfort, living space, and stability, the catamaran is an obvious choice. Conversely, if you seek a more sporty sailing experience, simpler maintenance, and a more reasonable purchase price, the monohull will suit you better. In any case, these two types of boats will allow you to fully experience the passion of the sea, each in its own way.