WHAT SHOULD YOU CHARTER FOR YOUR SAILING ADVNETURE IN CROATIA?
Planning your upcoming sailing holidays and unsure whether to charter a catamaran or a monohull? We’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one aligns best with your preferences, crew, and destination.
CATAMARAN
PROS
- SPACIOUSNESS: Catamarans offer ample space throughout. The cockpit, a highlight of catamarans, is twice the size of a monohull, extending over two hulls and situated on the same level as the saloon and kitchen. This layout creates an open and social atmosphere. With most living space above the waterline, ventilation is excellent. The large foredeck and famous trampoline are perfect for sunbathing. Typical charter catamarans boast four spacious cabins with queen-size beds and en-suite bathrooms, ensuring privacy.
- STABILITY: Catamarans are remarkably stable, remaining level while underway and anchored. This stability is ideal for those susceptible to seasickness, first-time sailors, families, and older passengers.
- SPEED: Catamarans outpace similarly sized monohulls, whether under power or sail. This advantage arises from their shallow draft, eliminating the need for a heavy keel, along with dual engines.
- DRAFT: A shallow draft opens more anchoring options, allowing you to access shallow anchorages away from crowded areas and closer to the shore, unlike monohulls.
- MANEUVERABILITY: Twin engines make manoeuvring in tight spaces a breeze, enabling the catamaran to pivot around its central axis without requiring bow thrusters.
No more hassle of towing the dinghy—store it conveniently between the hulls.
CONS
- SAILING EXPERIENCE: Some argue that the catamaran’s deck strapped between two hulls can lead to slapping in heavier seas. It doesn’t heel like a monohull, which, for some, means a different sailing experience. Catamarans may struggle when sailing upwind and require a unique tacking technique.
- COSTS: Catamarans with similar sleeping capacities tend to be pricier to charter than monohulls. They also occupy double the mooring space, leading to higher marina fees, especially during peak seasons or in smaller ports.
MONOHULL
PROS
- SAILING EXPERIENCE: Monohulls offer a classic sailing experience with heeling, favored by sailing enthusiasts. They tack swiftly and excel at upwind sailing.
- COSTS: Monohulls are generally more budget-friendly for purchase, maintenance, and chartering. Marina berth fees for monohulls are typically lower.
- AESTHETICS: Many find monohulls to be more visually appealing and elegant compared to catamarans.
CONS
- SPACE: While newer charter monohulls offer spacious cockpits, saloons, and cabins with high ceilings, they still offer less usable space than catamarans.
- DRAFT: Monohulls have deeper keels, limiting their ability to sail or anchor in shallow places.
- STABILITY: Monohulls heel while sailing and can roll at anchor, potentially causing seasickness.
CONCLUSION
Consider your priorities and preferences when choosing between a catamaran and a monohull. If stability and comfort are your top priorities, a catamaran is the way to go. However, if you crave an authentic and thrilling sailing experience, a monohull is your ultimate choice.
Please feel free to contact us should you need any advice or should you have any doubts about which boat suits your needs best. We’re here to help you make the right decision for your sailing adventure!
