Cat or monohull

Many people starting their sailing adventure wonder about choosing the right sailing boat. Today we have many types of boats to choose from. They are divided according to size, type of drive or sail. However, the basic difference between them is, for example, the number of hulls from which our vessel is built. There are mainly single-hull sailboats, catamarans (double-hull) and trimarans (triple-hull).

This time we want to take a closer look at this issue and point out the key differences between these boats, because many of you often ask yourself what to choose and which form of sailing would be best for yourself. Of course, we are not talking here about large vessels such as yachts and motorboats. We will focus mainly on sailboats and catamarans, as you can use both of these options in our Wind & Friends sailing base located in Alcudia, Mallorca.

First of all, it is worth considering what we expect from our boat. Each of us has different preferences and depending on them we should decide whether it will be a catamaran or a monohull. On the first one you will definitely achieve higher speed. Catamarans are light, quite stable boats and their bottom is made of two hulls with a trampoline between them. Their relatively low weight, low immersion in the water and large sails allow them to achieve high speeds. Its design allows you with optimal sailing – a slight inclination in which the windward hull comes out of the water slightly, which at the same time reduces its resistance, you can sail even faster. A catamaran is a relaxing boat but can be also competitive boat that requires not only considerable skills, but also a physical fitness, especially since you have to move quickly and agilely on it.

Therefore many beginners choose monohull boats first. It is certainly a better choice for people who are just starting to learn sailing, as well as for experienced sailors who value comfort, convenience and pleasant relaxation on the water more than the adrenaline of high speeds. Of course, don’t think that monohull boats won’t provide you with similar experiences as on the mentioned catamaran. In this case, however, these are smaller, more technical and usually subversive boats. They are also divided according to size, type of sailing or, for example, the shape of the hull. And it is because of this shape that a classic sailboat is less stable and leans to the side much faster than a catamaran. Its great advantage, over the cat, is the fact that all single-hull boats are more maneuverable, so turning through the headstay is not a problem. In the case of a catamaran, a common tack is often a big problem for less experienced sailors due to its construction. Therefore, catamarans are vessels that quickly gain speed, but also lose it during dynamic maneuvers.

There are many aspects and features that distinguish the mentioned boats and it would be impossible to count them all. It is definitely worth knowing at least these basic differences to know what to choose when planning a sailing course or buying a boat. And if you are interested in this topic and would like to learn more about these boats, you can visit our Wind & Friends school in Mallorca, where we will help you choose the right option for you. We have both catamarans and sailboats of various types in our base, and their diversity offers many opportunities for beginners and advanced sailors who want to improve their skills.

We will also be happy to hear your opinions and experiences on this topic.

So – catamaran or monohull?