Catamaran or Monohull: Which Is Better for Your Sailing Holiday in Croatia?
When a Catamaran Makes Sense
If you’re planning a sailing holiday in Croatia and can’t decide between a catamaran and a monohull, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions people ask — especially if they’re sailing here for the first time.
The short answer?
Both are great.
It just depends on what kind of holiday you imagine.
Below we’ve put together a simple, honest overview to help you decide what will work best for your group.
Catamarans have become very popular in the last few years, especially with families and groups of friends. The reason is simple: they’re comfortable.
More Space, More Comfort
If space is important to you, a catamaran is hard to beat.
The cockpit is wide, the saloon is bright, and everything is on one level — which feels very relaxed and practical throughout the week. Cabins are usually larger too, with good ventilation.
This layout makes it easy for everyone to spend time together without feeling crowded.
Very Stable
Because catamarans don’t heel much, the motion is gentler. People who are new to sailing or a bit sensitive to movement often feel more comfortable on a catamaran.
Anchoring in Shallow Bays
Catamarans sit higher in the water, so you can anchor closer to shore or in shallower bays — something Croatia has a lot of. It’s great if you enjoy quiet coves and swimming stops.
Easy Manoeuvring
Two engines make docking and turning in tight spots simpler. Even experienced monohull sailors often say catamarans are easier around marinas.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind About Catamarans
They sail differently.
Catamarans stay flat, so you don’t get that “classic sailing feel”, and they don’t point as high when sailing upwind.
Marina fees are usually higher because of their width, and they take up more space in busy ports.
When a Monohull Is the Better Choice
Monohulls are perfect for guests who enjoy a more traditional sailing experience.
Authentic Feel
If you love the feeling of the boat leaning into the wind and moving smoothly through the sea, a monohull will give you that. They sail well upwind and feel very responsive.
More Budget-Friendly
Monohulls are generally less expensive to charter and easier to berth, which can help keep overall costs lower — especially in high season.
Classic Look
A lot of sailors simply love the beautiful, timeless look of a monohull. It’s a bit of a romantic choice.
Things to Keep in Mind About Monohulls
You’ll have less living space, both inside and outside.
The deeper keel means some shallow anchorages aren’t accessible.
And the motion — especially the heeling while sailing — can be exciting for some, but not ideal for everyone.
A Simple Way to Decide
Choose a catamaran if you want:
More space and comfort
A stable ride
Easy movement on board
Shallow anchoring options
A relaxed, social holiday
Choose a monohull if you want:
A more budget-friendly option
Better performance upwind
A boat that feels more “sporty” to sail
There’s no wrong choice — just a better fit for your style and your group.
FAQ: Choosing Between a Catamaran and a Monohull in Croatia
At Fair Wind, we’re here to help you make that decision easy. Whether you go for a bareboat charter Croatia or a skippered charter Croatia, we’ll match you with a boat and itinerary that fits you.
Feel free to reach out with your group size, sailing experience, preferred dates and budget — we’ll guide you to the perfect choice so your sailing holiday in Croatia becomes the kind of experience you’ll remember forever.
Which boat type is more comfortable for a mixed group — for example, couples with different expectations or ages?
If your group includes people who haven’t sailed before, older guests, or anyone who values comfort over the sailing “feel”, a catamaran usually works better.
The wide, level layout and private cabins give everyone personal space, and people can move around safely even when underway.
A monohull is a good choice if most of your group is active or already familiar with sailing — especially if they enjoy the movement and rhythm of the boat.
How big is the difference in space between a catamaran and a monohull of similar length
Quite big.
A 40 ft catamaran feels comparable to 50ft monohull in terms of usable living space.
On a monohull, you gain more connection with the sea; on a catamaran, you gain more “villa-like” comfort — spacious cockpit, big saloon, wide deck, and outdoor lounging areas.
If your group values having their own corners to relax, a catamaran wins. If you prefer the simplicity and charm of a classic sailboat interior, a monohull is perfectly comfortable.
How much more do catamarans cost in marinas, and is it worth it?
Marinas usually charge by the length and width of the boat, so catamarans can be up to 100% more costly per night.
Is it worth it?
Guests who value comfort, space, and privacy almost always say yes.
Guests who spend most nights at anchor or prefer authentic sailing tend to choose monohulls and save the difference.
If we enjoy sailing but still want comfort, is a monohull a bad choice?
Not at all.
Modern charter monohulls offer plenty of comfort: bright saloons, spacious cockpits, good cabins.
If you like the idea of sailing more actively but still want a comfortable holiday, a monohull can be a lovely middle ground — especially with a good skipper who can read the weather and adjust plans for comfort.
Which boat type is easier to manoeuvre in Croatia’s busier marinas?
Catamarans are surprisingly easy to handle thanks to two engines — they can pivot almost on the spot.
The challenge is not manoeuvring but their width. Finding a wide enough berth in peak season can sometimes require extra planning.
Monohulls are narrower and fit standard marina slips, making last-minute berth hunting a bit less stressful.
We’re booking a skippered charter. Does it matter which boat we choose?
With a skipper, you can choose purely based on comfort and your ideal holiday style.
If you want space, privacy and smooth sailing days → catamaran.
If you want a bit more “true sailing” feeling → monohull.
The skipper handles the technical part either way.
On skippered charters, most guests choose a catamaran simply because the overall living experience is easier and more relaxed.
Is the stability of a catamaran really that noticeable?
Yes, especially at anchor.
Catamarans have very little roll, so evenings are calmer and everyone sleeps well.
On a monohull, you may feel more movement — not unsafe, just different. Some guests enjoy that feeling; others prefer the steadiness of a catamaran.
If someone in the group is prone to motion sickness, the stability of a catamaran can make a big difference..
What’s the best choice for a special occasion — birthdays, anniversaries, a reunion trip
For groups celebrating something, a catamaran often feels more special: more space for dinners, sunset drinks, and photos; more comfort for everyone; and a layout that naturally brings the group together.
A monohull can also be wonderful — especially for couples or close friends who enjoy sailing.
The experience really depends on the group dynamic and how you imagine spending your time on board.
