Catamaran vs. Monohull: Who’s taking home the grand prize?

Update March 2026: This article has been editorially reviewed and updated with current information.

Last updated: March 2026

NEWS

Catamaran or Monohull? A topic that’s often discussed in the sailing-world. We’ve put together all advantages of the two boat-types and who’s winning the duel.

ADVANTAGES OF THE CATAMARAN

Catamarans sail on the water surface and get their slight UFO look from their two hulls. This means that there are also two motors in the rump of the sailing ship. In the event of an engine failure, the catamaran is ideally equipped for emergencies. Maneuvering is much easier, especially in the harbor, as the catamaran can turn 360 degrees almost on the spot, thanks to the two engines. Catamarans are particularly popular amongst sailors, because they offer great comfort. Two hulls also mean significantly more space and also a certain stability on the water. Items which are placed on shelves and also cutlery and plates remain in place and do not have to be secured all the time, like in the monohull.

ADVANTAGES OF THE MONOHULL

More traditional and sail-stereotypical are monohulls. Compared to catamarans they have been built much longer, have only one hull and one engine and are therefore much cheaper.

Your Expert 

Alec Chizhik

In terms of safety, monohulls are totally winning the race. If the boat capsizes, which can happen despite the contradictory manufacturers’ statement, a monohull capsizes “through”, thus turns around 360 degrees and the deck comes back to the surface, despite getting some destruction.

As a final point, the sailing itself, with the monohull sailing “in” the water, is a bit easier and can be managed with a slightly smaller crew.

Image source: Youtube / Horizon Power Catamarans

STATEMENT

Whether a catamaran or monohull is a better choice lays in the eye and in the preferences of the beholder. On both, a longer sailing trip can be a lot of fun.

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