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How to Handle a Power Catamaran

Powercats and their brethren tunnel boats are all over the place today. You’ll see them on the flats, in the bays and in the blue water, and well out of sight of land. These twin-hull boats offer many advantages over monohulls, though they offer some disadvantages as well. The cat-versus-mono debate has been driven into the ground through years of discourse, but whichever hull design you favor the basic argument can be boiled down to this: Powercats usually display superior efficiency and stability, a softer ride and more deck space than a monohull, but they look ugly, feel strange when turning, may snap-roll, and cost more than monohulls.

Which is “better?” Neither, either and both — it depends on which factors are more or less important to you personally, and that’s a choice no one else can make for you. Whether you love them or hate them, run a cat like a traditional monohull and you’ll almost certainly be disappointed by the results. Often, a test drive with a salesman who doesn’t understand how to properly run a twin-hulled or tunnel boat turns a potential cat-lover away from the fold. Here’s what you need to know about captaining a cat, to prevent that from happening to you.

Trim – On a cat, trimming is nothing like a monohull. Most cats run most efficiently with a neutral trim, though tucking the bow in just a hair in rough seas can help smooth out the ride. If the boat is “sneezing” (sending puffs of mist out of the tunnel and soaking the passengers) there’s a good chance you have the motor trimmed in too much.

Of course, just as every monohull is different, every cat is different. Some run best with the bow trimmed up in a following sea and trimmed down (again — just slightly in most cases) with a head sea. Others continue to perform best at neutral trim. And with some powercats, changing the trim setting has little to no effect on ride at all. On such boats, simply set it for the most efficient fuel burn.

How do you know which setting to try for the particular boat you’re interested in? You’ll have to experiment since no rule of thumb is 100 percent accurate. So, you have a place to start, bear in mind that cats which displace less and plane more tend to act more like monohulls. Those who displace more and plane less tend to act more differently.

Turning – While monohulls bank into a turn, cats often remain flat and some even bank outwards. While this doesn’t present any real problem, it does catch people off-guard simply because it feels strange and unexpected, especially to experienced boaters who have always run monohulls.

On single-engine cats, this strange feeling is just something you’ll have to learn to live with. Take heart in the fact that after a season or two, it will feel every bit as natural as turning a monohull ever did. On twin-screw cats, however, you can mitigate the phenomenon by trimming up the outboard engine as you go into the turn. This will help bring that side of the boat up, keep the inboard side down, and will replicate the inward bank of a monohull.

Setting Speed – In a monohull, when the going gets tough and the trim has been properly set, there’s only one way to smooth out the ride — slow down. Oddly, in a cat this may have the opposite effect. Chopping the throttle can cause the boat to pound and slap, and ending the pounding is probably why you were interested in twin hulls in the first place. What gives? A powercat gets its smooth ride from the cushion of air compressed between the two hulls.

Look at virtually every modern cat and you’ll notice that the tunnel grows smaller as you move aft. The shrinking tunnel, combined with speed, compresses air and provides that cushion. At times, in certain sea conditions, going faster will help build that cushion and reduce impacts. Naturally, you have to use caution when speeding up in rough seas, but it’s an option that should be explored when the going gets tough.

Weight Matters – One of the most important, often overlooked factors in how a cat rides is load. The thin hulls found beneath the deck are driven deeper into the water by adding weight, which often produces “tunnel slap” (when the top of the tunnel slams down onto the waves.) While the softness of the ride on many monohulls improves with additional weight, when it comes to cats, the quality of the ride deteriorates quickly as weight grows.

Avoiding Snap Roll – The snap roll phenomenon is one of the worst attributes of powercats. These boats are exceptionally stable, but in some ways, too stable. When one hull drops off into a trough as the other rises on a wave the rocking motion is greatly exaggerated. What makes the motion even worse is the fact that people often become accustomed to riding on the incredibly stable platform, relax their handholds, and are caught off guard by the sudden shift.

The captain can, however, mitigate this problem by simply paying attention to the seas. Snap rolls are most often caused by boat wakes, thanks to their even spacing and height. When at the helm of a powercats, you must always be on the lookout for boat wakes approaching the beam. A slight course change to take the waves from a different angle is usually all it takes to completely eliminate a snap roll.

Mind the Bow – The vast majority of modern powercat designs feature very fine entries. As a result, cats tend to have relatively low buoyancy forward. This has two potential results. At certain low speeds in heavy head seas many cats throw spray, tunnel slap, and sometimes take water over the bow because the bow doesn’t have enough buoyancy to rise up and over the waves. At faster speeds, the air being shoved into the tunnel makes up for the lack of buoyancy.

Usually, this occurs between 1500 and 2000 rpm; the exact point at which it happens varies from cat to cat. The solution to this problem is to simply avoid running the boat into a head sea at this rpm range. When slowing down to investigate a fishing spot, or when approaching a waypoint, either come all the way back to idle or keep on just enough throttle to keep the bow slightly raised.

Stay Open-Minded – Most importantly, when running a cat, you need to remain open-minded and be willing to experiment. Every boat is different. Even boats of the exact same model can run differently, thanks to load, engine mounting, and a plethora of other factors. If you’re not willing to try running an unfamiliar boat many, many different ways until you discover how it runs best, you’re likely to be disappointed.

In my cat, it seems to like a slightly different trim setting each and every time I run it, depending on sea conditions and how many passengers and how much gear I have onboard. But if I make the effort, I can usually dial in the best running attitude and speed in a matter of one or two minutes. Once this is accomplished, I know from experience that it will provide a softer ride than any monohull of a comparable length. The fact that cats can do so has been proven numerically, as well as anecdotally.

I have been involved in cat-versus-mono testing, where boats were run side by side in identical conditions, while monitored with an accelerometer. This device interfaces with a laptop, and measures impacts and G-forces. Time and time again, the powercat posts drastically reduced impacts when that is, it is being operated properly. When driven improperly, the same tests prove that a cat’s ability to smooth out the ride is cut by more than half.

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by Gregor Tarjan, Aeroyacht Ltd.

Catamaran Advantages vs. Monohulls: Easy Boat Handling and Shorthanded Sailing

Generous room, more possibilities for a smart layout and the non-heel environment of a catamaran will allow sailors to perform boat handling tasks with greater facility than on a monohull. Beginners will gain confidence quicker, and a catamaran’s duplicate engine and steering systems will permit, not only better maneuverability, but also more efficient motor-sailing and the ability to beach the boat. Let’s look at these characteristics in detail.

Boat Handling is so much easier on a catamaran. Many novice sailors are always astonished by the fact that I know people whose first boat is an 18-Ton ocean going sail-catamaran. This should not mean that everyone can take a multihull around the world without experience, yet basic maneuvers are easily learned on a stable and more user-friendly catamaran. This greatly boosts operator confidence because the learning curve is often steeper. The twin engines and high helm position of a cruising catamaran greatly facilitate docking and tight harbor maneuvers. A monohull’s single screw will make a novice guess in which direction the prop will “walk” and often bow thrusters are the only answer to back a big monohull into a tight slip. By contrast, it will only take several times for beginners to understand the simple principles of the turning power of widely spaced, twin diesels and soon maneuvers that seemed impossible are mastered with confidence.

It is not uncommon to see women maneuvering a catamaran into a tight berth, while her husband prepares lines and fenders. The galley is certainly not the only place our female companions feel well and their reign has extended to the helm and beyond. It is a refreshing fact that I notice more women at the helm of a catamaran than on a monohull.

Have you ever seen a novice sailor clutching to the rail of a heeling monohull in a fresh breeze, dry mouthed, eyes bulging, and an expression of anxiety? These are involuntary reactions in a heeling and pitching environment, which is completely alien compared to dry land. Imagine the entire crew in foul-weather gear, huddled together and sitting in a cramped cockpit with water rushing by only inches away. Even worse, the novice is promoted to act as “rail meat” and is ordered to do something as useless as sitting on the windward deck. Now the wind increases and the captain orders the main sail to be reefed. The boat turns into the wind, the main sail flaps violently and the skipper shouts commands to overpower the howling wind. The novice sailor starts to wish he were somewhere else as the monohull labors head into the sea and waves crash against the bows causing spray to fly back into the cockpit. As crewmembers stagger forward to the mast and finally reef the mainsail, the boat is lurches with each wave, the boom whips dangerously from side to side and the noise and chaos is frightening. Our apprentice is ready to go home, thinking that only experienced and tough seamen are able to sail the ocean. He feels that he is definitely not one of them. Of course this example might be a bit exaggerated, but often not far from the truth.

Reefing a boat, even a catamaran can be a drama-filled event, where pulses usually quicken and crewmembers’ alertness increases. On a catamaran the novice would not feel that he is half submerged as he sits in a cockpit. Psychologically he would feel safer, sitting high and dry on deck, many feet away from the water. Even the newcomer could be sheltered in the coachouse saloon and still be part of the action by observing the events from the safety of the settee, and in the large cockpit he would be out of the way and not feel like a useless burden.

The beauty of a well designed cruising catamaran is that it does not necessitate rounding up against the wind to reef the mainsail. This greatly reduces the excitement of the action and avoids treading heavily into the seas, thus considerably eliminating the anxiety factor. Today’s fully-battened mainsails and lazy jack systems allow a multihull to be reefed even when sailing downwind. Apparent wind is reduced and the reefing maneuver is less taxing on boat and crew.

From running new sheets for the gennaker to performing a simple repair, operations are usually easier on a multihull owing to its wide and stable platform. For instance there is no need to tiptoe to a pointy bow to set and check the anchor. A multihull usually has the anchor resting on the front or central crossbeam with enough room to spare to attend to it. Making emergency repairs on a wide forward trampoline in the middle of the ocean (I have done my part) is so much easier than on a rolling stage of a monohull. Even searching for an important item stored on board, is certainly simpler, having additional elbow room, better light and ventilation, and more stable ground under your foot.

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How To Sail A Catamaran? (A Detailed Step-By-Step Guide)

Are you an adventurous soul looking for an exciting way to explore the open waters? If so, then sailing a catamaran may just be the perfect activity for you! Catamarans are becoming increasingly popular for sailing due to their stability and speed, and when sailed correctly, can be a powerfully enjoyable experience.

This guide will walk you through the basics of sailing a catamaran, from understanding the basics of sailing to handling the boat in different conditions and beyond.

Here, we will cover the differences between a monohull and a catamaran, balancing the boat, basic sailing techniques, safety precautions, and tips for improving your catamaran sailing skills.

So grab your gear and lets get sailing!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Sailing a catamaran is relatively straightforward.

To get started, adjust the sails and rudder to the desired angles.

Next, begin to move forward using the power of the wind and the force of the sails.

While underway, make sure to constantly adjust the sails and rudder to maintain the desired course.

Finally, when ready to stop, lower the sails and use the rudder to bring the catamaran to a stop.

Understanding the Basics of Sailing

Learning how to sail a catamaran can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but before you can take to the open waters you need to understand the basics of sailing.

It is important to familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of sailing, such as understanding wind direction and how to use sails.

Knowing the basics is essential for anyone wanting to sail a catamaran, as it will allow you to make informed decisions when sailing and will help keep you safe on the water.

Understanding wind direction is a key part of sailing, as it will help you determine the best way to sail and how to use the sails to propel the boat in the desired direction.

This can be done by looking at the flags or flags on other boats in the area, as well as by analyzing the behavior of the waves and the wind.

Additionally, you should also learn the different points of sail, which are the directions a boat can sail relative to the wind.

In addition to understanding wind direction, it is also important to understand how to use the sails of a catamaran.

The sails of a catamaran are made up of two mainsails, which are the two large sails on either side of the boat, as well as a jib, which is a smaller sail located at the front.

Knowing how to properly set the sails will allow you to make the most of the wind and propel the boat in the desired direction.

Additionally, you should also learn how to trim the sails, as this will help you to optimize the boats performance in different wind conditions.

Understanding the basics of sailing and how to use the sails of a catamaran is essential for anyone wanting to learn how to sail a catamaran.

With the right knowledge and practice, sailing a catamaran can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

The Differences Between a Monohull and a Catamaran

When it comes to sailing a catamaran, it is important to understand the differences between a monohull and a catamaran.

A monohull is a single-hulled boat with a keel that runs along the bottom of the boat.

This helps keep the boat stable and upright in the water.

A catamaran, on the other hand, has two hulls which are usually connected by a bridgedeck.

This helps to create a more stable platform in the water and allows for more open space on the boat.

There are some important differences between sailing a monohull and a catamaran.

For example, a monohull requires more power to move through the water and is more limited in terms of maneuverability.

On the other hand, a catamaran is more maneuverable and can be sailed in a variety of conditions.

Additionally, a catamaran is inherently more stable in the water and can handle larger waves.

Another important difference between a monohull and a catamaran is the way they are balanced.

A monohull relies on its keel for stability and must be balanced evenly along the length of the boat.

On the other hand, a catamaran relies on the two hulls to remain balanced and can be sailed with one hull slightly higher than the other.

This allows for greater maneuverability and can help to reduce drag in the water.

Finally, a catamaran is more efficient than a monohull and can be sailed at higher speeds for longer distances.

This makes it ideal for longer trips and open-water sailing.

Balancing the Boat

When it comes to sailing a catamaran, one of the most important steps is learning how to balance the boat.

This is because catamarans have two hulls, which means that they have twice the length and twice the width of a single-hull boat.

This can make it more difficult to keep the boat upright and stable in the water.

When sailing a catamaran, it is important to keep the hulls balanced so that the boat remains stable.

The easiest way to do this is to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed between the two hulls.

This can be done by ensuring that the sail is properly adjusted and that the passengers are sitting evenly between the two hulls.

Additionally, it is important to keep an eye on the wind direction and make sure that the sails are adjusted accordingly.

Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the boats center of gravity.

This is the point at which the boats weight is evenly distributed between the two hulls.

If the boat is not properly balanced, then it can become difficult to control, especially in rough conditions.

It is important to be aware of the boats center of gravity at all times and adjust the weight distribution accordingly.

Finally, it is important to remember that cats are less forgiving than other types of boats.

This means that any errors in balance or sail trim can be exaggerated and lead to a dangerous situation.

Therefore, it is important to practice balancing the boat in calm waters before venturing out in rougher conditions.

By following these steps, sailing a catamaran should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

With the right knowledge and practice, anyone can learn how to sail a catamaran safely and confidently.

Handling the Boat in Different Conditions

When sailing a catamaran, it is important to understand how to handle the boat in different conditions, such as in waves and strong winds.

In wave conditions, the key is to keep the boat balanced.

This means keeping the weight evenly distributed between the two hulls and using the sail to keep the boat stable.

To do this, you can adjust the angle of the sail and the trim of the boat to match the waves.

It is also important to keep an eye on the wind direction, as this can affect the boats stability.

In strong winds, it is important to know how to properly balance the boat.

This means keeping the weight evenly distributed between the two hulls and using the sails to keep the boat stable.

You can adjust the trim of the sail and the angle of the sail to match the wind direction.

It is also important to keep an eye on the wind speed, as this can affect how much power you need to use in the sails.

Finally, it is important to know how to handle the boat in rough weather.

This means using the sails to provide stability and keeping the boat balanced in rough conditions.

You should also be prepared to use the outriggers, which are the stabilizers that run along the sides of the boat, to help keep the boat upright in strong winds.

By familiarizing yourself with the basics of sailing and understanding how to handle the boat in different conditions, such as waves and strong winds, you can become a confident and skilled catamaran sailor.

With practice and experience, you can explore the open water with confidence and enjoy the unique experience of sailing a catamaran.

Basic Catamaran Sailing Techniques

Sailing a catamaran can be a great way to explore the open water and experience the thrill of the sea.

Before you set out, however, its important to understand the basics of sailing, such as wind direction and how to use sails.

Once youve got the basics down, you can then start to learn the specifics of how to sail a catamaran.

The most important thing to understand is the difference between a monohull and a catamaran.

Catamarans have two hulls, which make them more stable than monohulls.

This means you will need to learn how to properly balance the boat, as the two hulls can move independently of each other.

You should also be aware of the wind and current when youre sailing, as these can affect the boats stability.

When youre ready to start sailing, youll need to make sure that the sails are set properly and the boat is balanced correctly.

To do this, youll need to be aware of the wind direction and adjust the sails accordingly.

You should also make sure that the sails are trimmed properly, as this will help you to get the most out of the wind.

In order to properly sail a catamaran, youll also need to understand how to handle the boat in different conditions.

This includes handling the boat in waves, strong winds, and other challenging scenarios.

To do this, youll need to be aware of the wind direction, the current, and the waves.

You should also be aware of how the boat responds to different conditions, and be prepared to make adjustments as necessary.

Once youve got the basics of sailing a catamaran down, you can start to explore the open water.

So, dont be afraid to get out on the open water and learn the ins and outs of sailing a catamaran.

With a bit of practice, youll soon be able to enjoy the thrill of the open water.

Safety Precautions for Catamaran Sailing

Before sailing a catamaran, it is important to take safety precautions to ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable.

The first step in doing so is to make sure you have the right safety gear, such as a life jacket, flares, and a first-aid kit.

It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast before departing so you can plan your route accordingly, and to make sure you have the right clothing for the conditions.

Additionally, you should always carry a marine radio on board in case of an emergency.

Lastly, make sure you inform someone of your intended route and estimated time of return, so they can come to your aid in the event of an emergency.

By taking these safety precautions, you can enjoy your catamaran sailing experience to the fullest!

Tips for Improving Your Catamaran Sailing Skills

Improving your catamaran sailing skills is all about getting comfortable with the boat and understanding the different conditions youll be sailing in. Its important to start slowly and build your skill level gradually, as this will help you become a more confident and competent sailor. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Learn the basics of sailing. Knowing the basics of sailing is essential before you start to learn how to sail a catamaran. Understand the basics of wind direction, how to use sails, and how the wind affects the boat. This will help you better understand the catamaran and how to maneuver it.

2. Familiarize yourself with the catamaran. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the catamaran and its components. Learn the differences between a monohull and a catamaran, such as the two hulls and how to properly balance the boat. You should also be aware of the boats capabilities and limitations.

3. Practice sailing in different conditions. Its important to practice sailing in different conditions, such as in waves and strong winds. This will help you become more comfortable with the boat and give you the experience to handle a variety of conditions.

4. Learn how to use the sails. Understanding how to use the sails will help you become a more efficient sailor and get the most out of your catamaran. Learn how to adjust the sails for different wind directions and how to use them to your advantage.

5. Understand the safety precautions. Before you start sailing, make sure you understand the safety precautions. This includes understanding the weather conditions and the safety equipment you need to have on board.

By following these tips, youll be well on your way to becoming a more confident and competent catamaran sailor.

Learning how to sail a catamaran is a great way to explore the world of sailing and open up a world of adventure on the open water.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice, knowing how to sail a catamaran can be a great way to get out and explore the open waters.

With the right knowledge and practice, you can become a confident and competent catamaran sailor.

From understanding the basics of sailing, to learning the differences between a monohull and a catamaran, to mastering the techniques of catamaran sailing, this detailed step-by-step guide has all the information you need to become a successful catamaran sailor.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start your catamaran sailing journey today!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Power Catamarans: A Complete Guide

Dec 06, 2023

less than a min

Power Catamarans, often termed as the epitome of modern maritime engineering, are gaining popularity for all the right reasons. Their distinct design, enhanced stability, and cruising efficiency set them apart from traditional monohull boats and even their sail-driven counterparts. This guide dives into the world of Power Catamarans, shedding light on their advantages and how they compare to other vessels like monohulls and trimarans.

Historical Prelude:

The concept of catamarans traces its roots back to ancient maritime cultures. However, the power catamaran is a relatively modern innovation that marries the traditional twin-hull design with powerful engines, offering a unique blend of speed, stability, and space.

Distinguishing Design:

Power Catamarans are characterized by their twin hulls, which significantly reduce the drag, thus enhancing speed and fuel efficiency. Unlike monohulls, they have a broader beam, which contributes to increased stability and more living space. The absence of a ballast for stability further lightens the vessel, contributing to its speed and fuel economy

Speed and Handling:

One of the significant advantages of power catamarans is their speed and handling. The twin hulls allow for a smoother glide over the water, making them particularly favorable for watersports enthusiasts. Their handling in rough waters is superior to monohulls, thanks to the inherent stability provided by the dual-hull design.

The stability of power catamarans is unparalleled, especially when compared to monohulls. The wide beam and twin hulls provide a stable platform, reducing the rocking and rolling common in monohulls. This stability is not only comforting in rough seas but also crucial when docking or anchoring.

Comfort and Space:

The spacious design of power catamarans offers homelike livability, with ample room for cabins, lounges, and even onboard amenities like grills and bars. The wide beam also allows for large deck spaces, ideal for sunbathing or enjoying the scenic ocean vistas.

Economy and Redundancy:

Power catamarans are economical, with fuel efficiency being one of their selling points. The redundancy built into their design, with separate engines for each hull, provides an added layer of safety, ensuring that the vessel can return to shore even if one engine fails.

Regular Upkeep and Care:

Power catamarans, given their unique design and structure, come with their own set of maintenance requirements. Like all boats, routine checks and upkeep are essential to ensure smooth sailing. The twin hull design means double the underwater gear – from propellers to rudders, which necessitates regular inspections for any signs of wear, tear, or fouling.

Antifouling:

Given that power catamarans have a larger surface area underwater due to their twin hulls, they may be more susceptible to marine growth. Regular antifouling treatments can help in keeping the hulls clean, ensuring optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Engine Maintenance:

One distinct advantage of power catamarans is their dual-engine setup, but this also means double the engine maintenance. Regular oil changes, cooling system checks, and filter replacements are crucial. It's beneficial to synchronize maintenance schedules for both engines to ensure consistent performance.

The lifespan of a power catamaran largely depends on its build quality, materials used, and how well it's maintained. With proper care, a power catamaran can last for several decades. The engine's maintenance significantly impacts the catamaran's lifespan, with gasoline engines requiring maintenance at 1,200 to 1,800 hours and diesel engines at around 5,000 hours​​. The construction materials play a crucial role; for instance, fiberglass catamarans, when well-maintained, can last for many decades, while aluminum cats might change ownership after 10-15 years but can last a lifetime with proper care​.

World-Renowned Builders:

The power catamaran sector boasts several reputable manufacturers such as Lagoon, Leopard Catamarans, Fountaine Pajot, and other notable names like Seawind Catamarans​.

Lagoon, a revered name under the Beneteau Group umbrella, has carved its niche in crafting luxurious, spacious catamarans. A prime example is the Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht, embodying opulence with its nearly 250 sq. ft. aft deck and 900 sq. ft. interior, comfortably housing up to 12 guests. Known for its superyacht styling, it boasts superior fuel efficiency and a commendable average velocity-made-good of 9 knots.

Leopard Catamarans:

Emerging from the reputable Robertson and Caine shipyard in South Africa, Leopard Catamarans is synonymous with innovation and efficiency. The Leopard 53 Powercat is a testament to this legacy, showcasing excellent seakeeping abilities, offering 3 or 4 cabin configurations, and achieving a top speed of 25 knots.

Fountaine Pajot:

A trailblazer since 1976, Fountaine Pajot constantly redefines catamaran design. The Fountaine Pajot MY6 is a shining example, encapsulating the brand's visionary ethos. Stretching 15 meters, the MY6, equipped with dual engines of up to 2 x 353 Kw and 2 x 480 hp, promises dynamic sailing. Crafted meticulously by Pier Angelo Andreani, the interior mirrors a 20-meter monohull's spaciousness, reflecting modern aesthetics and comfort that stand as a benchmark in the Motor Yacht world.

These manufacturers continue to innovate, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency in their power catamaran models, making them a popular choice among maritime enthusiasts.

Comparing with Monohulls and Trimarans:

While monohulls are traditional and often cheaper, they lack the stability and space offered by power catamarans. On the other hand, trimarans, with three hulls, provide even more stability but at the cost of additional drag and less interior space.

TheBoatDB - Your Gateway to Maritime Exploration:

If you’re looking to delve deeper into the world of power catamarans and other vessels, TheBoatDB offers a comprehensive boat database. Explore various catamaran models, compare them with monohulls, trimarans, and other types of boats, and make an informed decision on your next maritime adventure.

In summary, power catamarans encapsulate a modern engineering marvel in the maritime domain. Their blend of speed, stability, comfort, and economy makes them an attractive option for a broad spectrum of boaters. Whether you are a long-distance cruiser, a water sport enthusiast, or someone who cherishes the tranquility of the sea, a power catamaran could be the vessel that transforms your maritime adventures into unforgettable experiences.

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Catamaran sailing skills: Mooring and anchoring a multihull

• Rachael Sprot
• January 9, 2023

Catamarans are becoming ever more popular, whether in the UK or on charter holidays, but handling one requires a new set of catamaran skills, as Rachael Sprot discovers

How do you make an average passage speed of 7 knots, fit in three double cabins and a huge saloon in under 36ft of boat length? Add another hull of course and head off but fist there are some catamaran sailing skills you will need to familiarise yourself with.

The advantages of catamaran sailing are obvious, especially if you’re chartering and want to take a larger group of friends and family sailing. But many people are daunted by the prospect of taking on new catamaran skills, such as manoeuvring so much boat in confined spaces.

I’m ashamed to admit that although I’ve worked on twin-hulled jet boats servicing offshore windfarms, until last month I’d never set foot on a sailing catamaran. So I decided to go back to school for a masterclass in boat handling.

Grenville Hauser, Training Director and Yachtmaster Instructor with Flexisail , valiantly took up the mantle of teaching an old (sea)dog new tricks and we spent a day aboard Issamella II , a Mahé 36 at their Hamble base learning some key catamaran skills – here, we are going to cover mostly how to handle a cat under power.

With high topsides and shallow draught, windage is much more of an issue than on a monohull. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

As with any boat handling, before turning the key in the ignition you need to know what lies beneath. The underwater profile of a catamaran is very different to that of a monohull. For a start, there’s a lot less of it. Utilising their natural form stability, they don’t need to situate tonnes of ballast down low so there’s no deep fin keel.

With a displacement of just 5 tonnes, Issamella II is considerably lighter than many cruising monohulls of the same length. This means she accelerates and decelerates more quickly, holding her way less.

With twin hulls come twin screws and twin rudders. There’s much more power at your disposal than on a monohull of the same displacement, with two 30hp engines instead of one. It’s common for the engines to be situated well aft in the sugar scoop to maximise space inside the hulls, and Issamella II had the stern drives aft of the rudders and steering gear.

For slow-speed manoeuvring, using the engines in opposition will turn the boat, while the rudders do very little. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Catamaran skills: under power

This configuration upends our conventional understanding of steerage. When you put the engine in gear, rather than throwing prop wash over the rudder, the propellers just throw the water straight astern. ‘You need to be making over 2 knots before the rudders start to work efficiently,’ Grenville explained.

For slow-speed manoeuvring, the rudders can be all but ignored, save for keeping them straight. Steerage instead comes from ‘splitting the sticks’; putting one engine in forwards and the other in reverse. This pivots the boat around the centre point allowing a change of direction without any forwards motion at all.

Article continues below…

Confident catamaran handling: how to master multihulls

Gavin Le Sueur shows Yachting Monthly how to step on board a catamaran for the first time with confidence

Monohull or multihull: which is best for blue water?

As former editor of Yachting World, David Glenn has plenty of experience of both monohull and multihull cruising. Here he…

The flip side of having so little boat in the water is that there’s a lot of it above. With high topsides, a raised saloon and fixed bimini, we’re manoeuvring an inverted iceberg. ‘There’s nothing you can do to avoid the effect of windage,’ Grenville counselled. ‘You just need to take it into account.’ Death, taxes and windage, as that well-known multihull sailor, Benjamin Franklin, put it.

To my even greater consternation, the whole concept of springs needs re-evaluation too. Springing a monohull with a slim stern off the pontoon is easy: reverse on a stern spring to draw the quarter in, the bow comes out and off you go. Catamarans are almost square in dimension, so you can’t spring off easily and need to be hyper aware of what happens to the rest of the boat if you do.

My first task was to come out of our finger berth, but since Issamella II was well aft in the pen any springing action would have swung the offside transom into the pontoon behind. Grenville explained that setting an aft-running stern line as a slip was the key: drive forwards on it with the inboard engine to keep the boat alongside whilst you remove the other lines.

When you’re ready to depart, ease a metre or so out to gain clearance astern, before engaging the outboard engine in reverse. This twists the boat away from the pontoon. Once the desired angle is achieved, slip the line and put both engines in slow ahead to make your way out.

Use the two throttles separately to ‘split the sticks’ and generate turning moment. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Tight turns

Immediately after departing the finger berth, there was a tight fairway to negotiate. It’s hard to ignore the instinct to turn the boat through an arc, but on a catamaran there’s no turning circle, they turn on the spot by putting the outside engine ahead, and the inside engine astern.

Having driven straight out of the pen, Issamella II pivoted beautifully mid channel. Then it was simply a case of matching the throttles in slow ahead to go out into open water.

With the turn under way, windage moved the boat slightly towards the pontoon, seen by the slick to windward. A touch more throttle ahead on port kept the port quarter clear. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Slow speed manoeuvring

With directional control achieved from the twin screws rather than the rudder, slow speed manoeuvring is best done with the wheel central. To turn to port, simply increase the forward revs on the starboard engine or reduce (or reverse) them on the port engine, and vice versa to turn to starboard. It’s as though you’re turning the inside hull into a pivot point, around which the outside hull will swing.

In reverse the principles are the same – increase the reverse revs on the outside engine, reduce the revs, or engage slow ahead on the inside engine. To turn faster, increase the revs on both engines, which accentuates the effect.

Centralising the rudder

With no wheel lock on Issamella II I had to physically hold the wheel central whilst ignoring the overwhelming urge to turn it in the direction I wanted to go. It takes a concerted effort to retrain the brain and think in terms of throttle control for steerage. Centralising the rudders is particularly important when going astern because the reverse thrust flows straight over them.

There was also very little feel on Issamella II ’s rudder due to the complex linkage system, which has implications when sailing too. It’s another reason for decreasing your rudder dependency.

Stepping off the high topsides isn’t an easy option, so position the crew by the transom steps. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Catamaran skills: coming alongside

Approaching a pontoon.

With the high topsides making it almost impossible for crew to step off, the best approach to a pontoon is in astern, allowing someone to take a line ashore or lasso a cleat from the transom.

Most twin engine vessels will have counter-rotating props so that any prop kick effect is evened out when both engines are set equally. The result is that they go astern much better than a shaft-driven monohull which must overcome prop walk first.

The fact that steerage comes from splitting the throttles, rather than waterflow over the rudder means it’s much easier to control the boat at slow speeds.

Approach angle

However, the approach angle needs re-imagining. Since a catamaran twists rather than turns, and the hulls are quite slab-slided, you can’t glide in at a steep angle and turn the helm away at the last minute as you might with a pointy-nosed monohull.

If you arrive at a steep angle on a catamaran and then try to twist the boat to straighten up, you’re more likely to bring the boat away from the pontoon because it’s based on a pivoting motion rather than part of a turning circle.

Forget about the perfect parallel park, the focus needs to be on getting the stern close enough to get a stern line ashore, and then driving forwards with the outboard engine to bring the rest of the boat alongside. I tried this a couple of times and once I’d got my head around the change of strategy it was straightforward.

You don’t need an elegant coming alongside. Focus instead on getting the stern close enough for the crew to step off. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Offshore wind

Issamella II is lighter than the same-sized monohull but she’s got the windage of a much larger one. In conditions where you are being blown off the pontoon it’s particularly important to use the technique above rather than rely on crew strength to pull the boat alongside.

It’s not without hazard though: there will be a lot of load on the line. Before engaging forwards gear ensure the line is safely made off and the crew are safe with all fingers accounted for.

Use the minimum power necessary – if a line snaps the recoil can be dangerous.

Depending on helm position, there is usually a blind spot somewhere on a catamaran. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Helm position

The offset helm position feels unnerving initially. It’s harder to judge the distance between the offside hull and the pontoon, and on Issamella II there was an awkward blind spot created by the hard bimini.

Until you’re familiar with the dimensions of the boat, asking a knowledgeable crew member to call distance off is essential. The blind spot is also an important consideration when under way, particularly in congested waters. I was surprised by how easily small vessels like RIBs are obscured. Before changing course you also need to have a good look.

Fortunately, the principles of tidal boat handling remain the same so there’s no need to learn a new set of rules. Wherever possible an approach should be made up tide to maximise control and keep speed over ground to a minimum. Ferry gliding sideways is just as effective as it would be in a monohull and will help you slip into an alongside berth.

What is different, however, is the wind vs tide equation. As a result of the increased windage the tide seems to have less impact. It isn’t, but you need to reassess the hierarchy of these elements as wind plays a greater role. The extra beam means you have less margin for tidal drift.

Get a good look at your berth before beginning the manoeuvre, and double check there is space for your beam. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Catamaran sailing skills: mooring on finger pontoons

My final task of the day was to put Issamella II back into her finger berth. It was a case of reversing the procedure that we used earlier to get out: drive up the fairway, turn the boat on the spot and back into the berth.

You may not be able to see the opposite quarter, so get crew to call out distances off the stern. If in doubt, go ahead to stop. Photo: Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

The conditions were benign, which helped, but even so it was remarkably stress-free. On a monohull you would need to keep some way on to maintain steerage in reverse, and then choose the right moment to stop the boat. On a catamaran steerage isn’t linked to speed, so you can inch back into a berth, making small adjustments as you go. It feels odd to deliberately lose steerage, but it’s much easier to correct mistakes, and any that do happen will be less costly as there’s no speed involved.

Position the crew on the quarter with a coil of line in each hand. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Catamaran skills for the crew

It’s always the skipper’s job to put the boat in the right place and at the right speed to allow the crew to get a line on, but it’s down to the crew to attach the right line at the right time. Line handling can make or break a manoeuvre.

From a high-sided catamaran this means lassoing the cleat. There’s a real art to this and it’s important to give them an opportunity to try this before it becomes critical; even the best cowboys need to practise.

• Attach one end of the line to the cleat on board
• Loosely coil the line into two loops, one for each hand
• One hand needs to keep hold of the bitter end, or stand on it with a foot
• Lead with the hand which is holding the middle of the line with a wide underarm throw
• Follow through with the coils in the other hand, but keeping hold of the end
• Throw the line so that it covers as large an area as possible – don’t worry too much about precision, as long as the line lands beyond or around the cleat it will work
• Pull in the slack and secure it around the cleat on deck

Throw one coil and follow through with the other to create a large loop, keeping hold of the bitter end. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Well-briefed crew will help an inexperienced skipper out of a tight spot. Giving them a heads up on the possible pitfalls and how things might go wrong means that they’ll be able to adapt more quickly to changes of plan. There’s nothing quite like the gratitude of a skipper whose crew quickly move a fender to the other side when it’s needed.

Catamaran engine failure

One of the major advantages of a catamaran is the redundancy: two rudders, two engines, two props. If one engine’s disabled the other will get you home. However, it’s not quite as simple as it sounds because the uneven drive veers the boat towards the disabled side.

This is especially true at slow speeds where the rudder isn’t effective enough to counterbalance the offset thrust. It becomes hard to drive the boat straight, and almost impossible to turn the opposite way.

If one engine fails, a backed headsail to the failed side can help push the bow back on track. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Grenville had a solution for this scenario in the form of a backed headsail to neutralise the turning effect of the single engine. There was very little wind available to test out the theory, but we put one engine in neutral and sheeted the jib to the side of the ‘disabled’ engine. The apparent wind created from our forward motion was just enough to put pressure on the bow and keep the boat tracking true.

With a little more speed than normal the rudder gave some directional control and we were able to bring the boat alongside. It’s a neat trick to have in the toolbox, and with roller furling you could precisely match the headsail area to the wind strength to find the right balance.

Catamaran skills: anchoring

Dropping anchor.

If your first introduction to multihulls is chartering somewhere warm and exotic, the chances are you’ll be doing much more anchoring than alongside berthing.

Anchoring techniques are much the same as for monohulls: stop the boat by bringing it head to wind or current, and drop the anchor swiftly, paying out the right amount of chain for the depth.

There should be an anchor bridle already rigged. Lead this through the bow roller to secure to the chain, then pay out. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

The big difference is that catamarans have a tendency to sail around the anchor, so a bridle is essential to stabilise the bow. Most of them have a bridle pre-rigged to strong points which can be slipped over the chain and allowed to take up once the anchor is set.

We dropped the hook off Netley in Southampton Water. Once I’d reached beneath the netting to attach the bridle it was simply a case of letting out enough chain for it to take up, which was a surprising amount. Issamella II then sat happily whilst we had lunch.

With a 5m bridle, you may need to pay out another 10m of chain. The hook will be underwater. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Another consideration is that multihulls behave differently to monohulls at anchor due to their windage. Dissimilar vessels should give one another a wide berth at anchor, especially in gusty wind. Shallow draught means catamarans can creep closer inshore, so there’s a natural filter easing the tension between the subspecies.

Approach in astern, positioning the buoy on the same side as the helm, slightly outboard, taking care of lines in the water. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Catamaran skills: mooring buoys

I’ve always thought that picking up a mooring buoy is one of the hardest jobs on board. Not for the skipper, for them it’s simplicity itself, but for the poor old foredeck crew.

No sooner have you hooked the pickup buoy then the bow blows off leaving them grappling with a monster from the deep. A battle for the boathook ensues, and if you’re not careful Neptune retains custody. Whilst the air becomes thick with seaweed like the fur off warring cats, the skipper looks on with embarrassment.

How would this work on a multihull with twice the windage I wondered? You’d need a harpoon to stand a fighting chance of getting secured. Grenville had a solution though: approach astern instead of ahead.

With a long line led aft from the bridle on the bow, make an upwind or uptide approach just as you would normally, but approaching with the stern and not the bow. Keep the mooring buoy just off to one side to make it easier for a crew member to pass a line through the ring and reduce the chances of running it over.

Use the engines to spin the boat. It’s not the crew’s job to manually drag the bows up to the mooring buoy. Photo: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

The props and rudders are close to the surface under the sugar scoop, making them vulnerable to fouling from any lines in the water, so care is required. Once the line is through the eye of the mooring buoy, the helm needs to turn the boat 180° to bring the bow up whilst the crew pull in the slack.

With the catamaran’s effortless pivoting this is far easier than trying to hold the bow up to the wind. The skipper brings the boat to the monster, rather than relying on the crew to muscle it aboard.

Catamaran mooring conclusions

Once you’ve relinquished your grip on the wheel, splitting the sticks soon becomes intuitive and you can achieve an impressive amount of control through the infinite throttle combinations.

The difficulty in handling a catamaran is not in learning new catamaran skills but forgetting the old ones. And handing the keys back afterwards because, for this salty old seadog, learning to swing a cat was surprisingly good fun.

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39 Vital Tips, How To Sail a Catamaran!(For Beginners, The Fun and Safe Way!)

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In this article, I list many of the things that I have found significant about sailing a catamaran. The list is mainly aimed towards sailors transitioning from monohulls, but new sailors without prior experience will benefit from reading this before leaving harbor!

So what do you need to know before setting off in a Catamaran?

Catamarans Don’t Heel

Since catamarans have two hulls, the boat won’t heel over to its side while sailing; this means a ton of things! In part, it means that your ride will be faster, safer, more comfortable, etc.

Read this  to understand the difference between monohulls (aka regular sailboats) and catamarans.

You will be faster on a Catamaran.

Since a catamaran has two hulls, it has less volume of the boat below the surface; this means less drag and higher speeds.

Want to know why cats are faster than other boats?

Maneuverability inside the Marina will be much more pleasant.

Although a catamaran will be more affected by winds due to its immense size, you can maneuver it as you would with a battle tank since it has two engines. That is doing a 360 turn without any movement forward or backward. This is an excellent way to enter and exit a marina.

Fuel costs will decrease.

Low drag means less energy needed to propel the boat; this is also true when running the engines. Compared to a monohull, the catamaran will draw less fuel.

Check out this article  to understand why and how you can save fuel and instead spend your money on fun things!

If you get knocked over, you won’t get back up again (but at least you won’t sink!)

Catamarans have a terrible reputation for flipping over or capsizing as it is known to the people of the water. There is not much data to support that claim, and if you look at the available data, you would actually see that catamarans, in many ways, are safer than boats with only one hull.

Are catamarans safer than other sailboats?

Catamarans are wider and, therefore, safer.

Is it easier to push something to its side if it has a wide or a small base? Yepp exactly, the cat has a broad base and is, therefore, more stable (the short and easy explanation). There are numerous other factors to consider but a wider base means better stability!

Sign up for my mailing list to find out when my article on catamaran stability goes online

Catamarans will get you the ladies(or men, or cats, or whatever)

There is nothing more accurate on this list than the fact that a catamaran will get you more company, of the sort you prefer, than a monohull. The sailing is smoother; the space is plentiful, it’s basically made for having friends hanging out on the trampolines.

Speaking of trampolines, some myths say that they are made to reduce water onboard and enhance safety, but everybody really knows it’s a place for beautiful times with great friends ;)!

What are  trampolines  you say?

Because of the shallow draft, you can go places where monohulls can’t

If you are going to the Bahamas (or any other place where the water isn’t very deep), and believe me, you definitely want, then a shallow draft is almost as good of a friend as a cold beer on a sunny day.

A shallow draft means that your boat won’t be sticking very deep into the water, which significantly enhances the number of places you can explore, and it also makes it possible to get very close to the beach.

Be prepared to spend your dollars.

“A boat is a hole in the water where you throw your money” is what a wise friend of mine once told me in a marina in the Miami River. Little did I know at the time how true that statement was to become.

And if you’re on a catamaran… you will have two engines, larger sails, more surface area, more everything, and more everything means that more things will break and more items will have to be paid for

BUT! it also means more fun!

Finding a place to lift your cat out of the water might be trickier than you thought.

Unless you are on a smaller cat, such as the Gemini Legacy 35, you won’t be able to fit in a standard slip, and getting hauled up out of the water might not be possible everywhere.

Be prepared to pay a little extra, and make sure you ask before you!

In contrary to many beliefs, cats can be sailed single-handed.

Another myth is that catamarans are harder to sail than their monohull counterpart; this is simply not true in a general sense. If the boat is set up for shorthanded sailing, it will most certainly be easier to sail than its heeling and leaning sister ship, the monohull.

If you are interested in the skills needed to handle a large cruising catamaran I think you should check out my recommended books here.

No more sailing close to the wind

Since a cat doesn’t have a colossal keel, it tends to move sideways when sailing close to the point of wind. This means more drag, less transfer of movement in the direction of travel, and a less comfortable trip.

Usually, a cat needs to sail more of the wind than a monohull,

Downwind is your new best friend.

But on the other hand, going downwind or running downwind is, together with humans, your dog and red wine, your new best friend. This is where the catamaran will show its true potential.

It’s fast, smooth, and can take you around the world!

Sailing around the world.

Unless you are setting a world record, you will probably take the westward route around the globe. Sailing west means traveling with the prevailing winds and, you guessed it, perfect for a catamaran.

Interested in sailing around the world?

You have friends? Bring all of them!

Maybe not all, but many catamarans can fit many people; 6-10 people is not uncommon. Most of the space is on deck, but since there are two hulls, there are usually 2-4 berths fitting 4-8 people sleeping!

That’s a lot of friends, family, cats, or whomever you would want to bring.

Are you used to monohulls? Then you need to update your storm tactics!

Often, the boat will survive more hardship than the crew; it has happened more than once that a ship will be found only to have lost its team somewhere in the middle of the ocean.

A boat is only as good as its captain allows it to become; with poor sailing skills comes danger, and handling a catamaran IS different than handling another type of boat. Ensure you update your skillset, especially those considering rough weather, so that they are relevant when transitioning to a different kind of vessel!

Full speed with double engines

Exactly how fast you will be able to travel is, of course, dependent upon many factors. But something you can rely on is that more power equals higher speeds; in most catamarans, they employ two engines!

If you want to see a table of examples comparing sailing with one engine and two engines,  check this out.

Hate swinging around on anchor? You better up your bridle-game

A well-balanced bridle will make the cat stay stable towards the wind; a poorly balanced bridle will tend to do a pendulum motion where the waves might push it one way only for the wind to push it back.

Want to better understand  how a bridle work and how to make one?

Don’t stop before the beach; go all the way upon it.

Sailing in the Caribbean, we could often find ourselves wanting to explore a deserted island. We could either throw in the dingy or swim to shore; with a catamaran, you have a third option: “beach” it.

Beaching a catamaran means taking it all the way up to the shoreline so you can step off onto a beautiful beach without even getting your toes wet!

Check this  out to understand what beaching a catamaran is like.

The cat is enormous; why not live on it!

A monohull’s size is usually what takes the fun and comfort out of the vacation, but with more space and your own berth/room, the ability to stay comfortably for more extended periods increases.

You might even have a hard time to get people of your boat 😉

How to sail faster upwind than a longer monohull

Yes, it is usually true that a mono can go closer to the wind than your average cat; this means a shorter distance from point A to point B if traveling directly towards the wind.

But, and its a big but (one T) catamarans on average are faster, that means even though they might have to travel a longer distance, they will usually show up at the destination faster than its mono counterpart.

Especially if we are talking longer distances, let’s say around the world or Atlantic crossings, then there is no discussion over which is the fastest.

Check this list of catamaran speeds to learn more .

No more merry-go-round while at anchor

One of the things I hated the most when living and sailing on a monohull was getting seasick when not even sailing. The wind pushing you one way and the waves the other makes for an incredibly potent mix of sea-sickness.

On a cat, that’s not really an issue; yes, it will swing around a little, it might even swing a little extra since it catches a lot of wind, but it is not going to roll! Which is a huge deal!

How to become a better sailor

Everybody says that to become a good sailor, you must get out there earn your experience, but without the correct feedback and conclusions, you might be at risk of sub optimizing your skillset.

This means that unless you bring someone very experienced, you might create habits that only work under the circumstances you have practiced, that is, calm weather close to shore.

What you need is someone to tell you, “that works today, but it will get you into trouble in X and Y situations,” those tips are vital! Get the opinion of someone you trust, whether it’s online or an actual person tagging along!

The American sailing association has a pretty cool book about handling large catamarans, check it out here.

Sailing single-handed

Catamarans, when set up correctly, can be sailed single-handed or shorthanded. Some of the changes you’ll have to make include;

• Get an autopilot
• Make sure your lines go all the way to the cockpit, so you don’t have to leave your GPS, radar, etc.
• Remove things that are obstructing your view; there are only two eyes on board!
• Ensure you have enough physical power to handle the winches, sail, etc., if you don’t? Hit the gym; if that doesn’t work, buy electric winches.
• Practice sailing single-handed(but have a passive crew tag along for safety) and figure out what else you need.

More info on how to sail single-handed

Anchoring your cat at sea

One way to do this is to use a sea anchor, basically a parachute in the water that breaks your movements.  more on sea anchors here

The sea depth in the middle of an ocean can be thousands of meters, so bringing that much anchor chain doesn’t really work. What you would do is drift under control, that is, situating the boat in a comfortable position, and that doesn’t make you drift too much in the wrong direction.

Picking up a mooring ball

This is a common question, but I’m not sure why it intimidates people as much as it does. It is probably the easiest way to anchor of them all.

Basically, what you want to do is;

• Prepare your bridle
• Head into the wind slowly, approach the ball on the same side of the centerline as your friend, who will later pick it up.
• Take into consideration the drift occurring by the wind and current.
• Use a boathook, stick, or whatever to pick up the line from the mooring ball and attach it to the center of your bridle.
• Put the boat in reverse, give it a little throttle, and tension the lines so that you can trust your anchoring
• Voila, you’ve picked up your first mooring ball!
• How to make your useless friend useful onboard

Turn that useless friend into and a vital asset!

The best way to prepare for troublesome situations is to think through what problems may happen and what you want to do when it happens. What you do is you bring that diamond in the rough that is your friend onboard, you discuss a few situations, you tell her what you want her to do and when.

Then you practice, not full-on, but you will show your friend how things are done; let’s say you want help with anchoring. Do a walkthrough of the process where you let your, now a little bit shinier diamond, handle the ropes and respond to commands. Offer honest and concrete feedback and let them succeed in the task.

Once you feel comfortable with your friend’s actions, you have accomplished two things, you have taught your friend a new skill, and you have acquired a crewmember! Glorious!

Bring your real best friend, the dog (or cat, for you weirdos 😉 )

Heeling is not only tough on us humans! On a cat (the boat), a cat(the animal) can move around more safely, and there is a smaller chance of it falling off. Many chose to keep the pet inside the boat, but I really do believe that your pets should also be able to enjoy the beautiful sailing and weather!

Prepare to see nothing.

I don’t mean beautiful islands and tropical beaches; you’ll see plenty of that! I mean, seeing where you are going, a cat has a lot of stuff in front of you(such as that glorious interior space), so if you’re used to your good old monohull, you might find it difficult at first to get at a good view of where you’re going. Especially when docking or in a marina.

Catamaran Sailing Techniques: Everything you need to know – Yachting World

The wind will give you a hard time.

A catamaran is basically a big box with floating sleds; boxes are not famous for aerodynamics. This box-shaped floater will catch a lot of wind and will make slow speed movements, such as docking, a little bit trickier.

To the rescue comes double engines with separate controls making it possible to do 360 turns on the spot and super small unballasted keels called centerboards.

Spring of the dock will be your new way of life.

Higher on the list, we looked at the box-shaped floating thing that is a catamaran and how much the wind affects it. This is also true when exiting a dock; all that force will make it impossible to head out if the wind blows towards the dock.

Spring off the dock to the rescue! This method uses simple physics of leverage to make your stern move away from the dock even though the wind and waves are pushing you back in.

Sign up to my  mailing list  for information on when that article is published!

Stop turning the wheel and start using your throttles.

The downside of a shallow draft is that it won’t have much that stops you from moving sideways with the wind; the upside of having a catamaran is that you have two engines!

When moving at slow speeds, let’s say docking, you dont have much “grip” on the water and not much water passing around the rudders. This makes handling a catamaran in the same way as a monohull very difficult.

Instead, the preferred method is to put the rudder at center position and turn by offsetting the throttle; higher throttle on your right engine will make you go left and vice versa. This allows for 360 spins and precis handling in tight spaces! Pretty neat, I would say.

Get used to that hellish banging noise!

Bridge deck clearance is a real thing on a catamaran, and if you’re on a smaller sized or just poorly built, you’ll get more banging than your teenaged self ever wished for(pun intended)!

So bridge deck clearance is the distance between the water and the lowest part of the boat between the hulls.

This is the part where the water will pass between the hulls, and under some circumstances, let’s say big enough waves, water will crash and hit the underside—making not only a lot of noise but also vibrations throughout the boat.

Bring all that crap that you thought you would have to leave on land.

“sailing is living the simple life and bringing only what you need,” someone said to me once; screw that! 🙂 On a cat, there is so much space that you’ll be able to bring almost anything that you want and need.

People bring everything from scuba gear(including a system to fill up the oxygen tanks) to washing machines!

Even though I consider myself to be a simple man when it comes to stuff (i live in a van, as some of you know 😉 ) I can totally understand the beauty of bringing a lot of creature comfort on board.

Shallow draft, yes, but how deep is the water, visual checks.

Before sailing the Bahamas, I would hear of stories almost every day of boats that went aground and either got stuck or wrecked their ships. I was terrified but once underway and a couple of months in, I couldn’t really understand how it could happen.

So I started looking into the information about different accidents that I could find, and something struck me, common sense isn’t that common…

I realized that many sailors trusted their GPS or maps more than they trust their own eyes. I could easily understand that the people who went aground were the ones that did not do visual checks when entering or moving through a shallow section.

When storms roll in, the seafloor, especially if made of sand, shifts, and depths, is rarely accurate on a map, and if your sailing with only a few feet to spare, you better keep an eye out!

If monohulls give you feedback like your mom at family dinner, then a catamaran is your dead budgie.

Maybe that title is a bit of a stretch and only applies to my family; if so, sorry about that, let’s carry on!

So when the wind hits the sails on a monohull, it leans to the side, everybody gets seasick, and you want to go home, that is not all bad! That same feeling also gives the captain a sensation of how much force is acted upon the sails, something vital if you want to stay afloat.

The issue with a catamaran is that it does not offer feedback to the helm in the same manner; there is nothing dangerous about it; it is just different. The problem occurs when you expect feedback in the shape of leaning before you start reefing.

If you wait for that, you’ll soon find yourself in trouble!  The easiest and safest way is to use a “wind speed rule of thumb,” basically a standard operating procedure for  putting the reefs in based on apparent wind. Once the wind speed hits X m/s, you put your first reef in; when the speed hits Y m/s, you put the next reef in, and so on.

See a squall coming? Reef early!

A gust of wind? Head down, not up!

I know, I know, I compare monohulls and cats all the time… and yes, here’s one more comparison!

Some of you single-hull-people out there might be tempted to head upwind if there’s a gust hitting the sails, I would rethink that strategy and recommend you train your reactions to do the opposite! 

Heading upwind(on a cat) during a gust will increase the risk of capsizing (flipping over is extremely rare, but if you’re ever going to pull it off, here’s your chance!).

Gybe like Barry White would

I’m not sure we see the same things here, but what I’m trying to say is that you want to take it nice and smooth on the transition from one side to the other.

Tighten in the sheet, pull the mainsail to the center and slowly pass from one side to the other; this will decrease the wear and tear and reduce the risk of injuries from the beam swinging like a 

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Catamaran Sailing Techniques Part 2: Handling under power – with Nigel Irens

• Matthew Sheahan
• April 5, 2016

In the second part of our series we look at how best to utilise a cat’s engines when they are needed and point out some of the pitfalls

We chose a suitable buoy well outside the channel as our reference point. This is important as you need to get immediate feedback on the effect your work at the controls is having. It is a really useful exercise and one I’d recommend to get you started.

The most important tool in the box to effect these manoeuvres is learning how to use the twin engine configuration to best advantage. There’s no great surprise about the fact that if you power ahead with one engine and astern with the other the boat is simply going to rotate.

It does take practice to develop the degree of spacial awareness needed to recognise if the boat is moving in a certain direction – which may or may not be intentional. In our case, in a reasonably steady 15-17 knots of wind we learned the following about the boat – which would prove to be invaluable in planning and executing subsequent manoeuvres for real.

Beam on to wind

The boat seemed to settle well with the wind on the beam in stable equilibrium. Lateral drift was not measurable in terms of speed, but was enough to cause a pattern of disturbed water to windward. We maintained this position by applying a bit of power – usually ahead on one engine and astern on the other.

Learning about this is something that could be used to advantage next time you need to slot into a berth with at least a component of onshore breeze. The twin engines will allow you to stay parallel to the dock and also keep abreast of the berth, so even a light breeze should do the rest by making you slide with some precision sideways into the berth (maybe even to a round of applause).

Going astern onto a pontoon can be the best way of coming alongside

If the wind is offshore (ie pushing you away from the pontoon) then you’ll need to think up a new strategy. One useful tactic is to approach the berth stern first – at, say, 45°. Doing this will probably allow the helmsman a much better view of what’s happening than he or she would have if approaching the berth bow first.

If there’s any wind you’ll probably approach the berth from the downwind side because the bow is so prone to being carried away by the wind that pulling her into a berth stern first will offer more directional control than pushing her in bow first.

Head to wind

Unlike the beam-on situation it was surprisingly difficult to keep the boat head to wind with no way on. There was no point in spinning the wheel from lock to lock as even the backwash from the props was a long way from inducing any meaningful power from the rudders.

As soon as the bow fell off even a couple of degrees we found that she’d be 10° off or more before you’d had time to call up a swift burst of power from one engine to force her back head to wind.

Getting the feel for this phenomenon in open water will be very useful next time you’re faced with the same situation in a crowded marina or, more importantly, when you need to drop anchor or pick up a mooring.

Turning circle

This is simply a way of feeling what the rudders are capable of at different speeds – again this is useful knowledge when you’re manoeuvring for real.

Using engines rather than the rudder builds confidence

Once again in any situation where a tight turning circle is needed you’ll be using the twin engine configuration to advantage. That way you can avoid that situation where you’re tempted to try the old ‘helm hard-over and full-ahead’ tactic, which can either work rather impressively well – or not. The cost (literally) of failure is so dire that it probably best to give it a miss.

Steering astern

Will she or won’t she respond to the helm when going astern? Give it a try to find out if this works. If not then best hold the helm amidships and use the twin engines to steer you in. In the case of our boat the position of the rudders didn’t seem to make much difference, especially at slow speed, so the default position was inevitably rudders amidships.

Although the manoeuvring aspect of operating under power is important, you’ll also need to know something about passagemaking under power, especially if the catamaran you’re responsible for is not that able a sailing boat.

Here most owners and skippers tend to settle for a comfortable cruising speed that seems to offer the best compromise between speed, noise and vibration and fuel consumption.

Normal practice is to fit a propeller with a diameter and pitch such that the engine (or engines in this case) can just reach maximum speed (rpm) under normal conditions. It is important for the health and longevity of the engine that this condition can be achieved; engine manufacturers are not happy if an engine is being overloaded, even to the point of refusing warranty claims.

A buoy or fixed points can be good guide to how responsive the cat is

The importance of this is that there is a case to be made for cruising with only one engine at a time as this can result in reduced fuel consumption for a given cruising speed. The danger is, however, that because the boat is travelling more slowly under one engine than with two then the one that is running may not be able to reach the maximum revs achievable with both engines running, so the engine may suffer as a result.

The safe way to operate a catamaran under a single engine is to move the engine control forward slowly incrementally until the engine stops responding to the movement by increasing engine speed. From that point the lever should be pulled back again until the engine speed drops back by a measurable amount.

Like most people I am usually surprised by how well motor sailing works when the fun is over and you just need to get back upwind at the end of a long day – in a boat that doesn’t really like going upwind (and even less so if there’s a sea running). This works as well in a catamaran as it does in a single-hulled boat.

Do’s and don’ts

• DO get some manoeuvring practice somewhere where you can’t do any harm to your boat or anyone else’s.
• DO find out what the proper strategy is for efficient motoring (one engine or two) before taking over the boat.
• DO concentrate on looking around you all the time when manoeuvring; be aware of the boat’s real movement.
• DON’T forget to use the wide-spread engines to manoeuvre in close quarter situations; leave the rudders amidships.
• DON’T be tempted to effect make or break manoeuvres using lots of power.
• DON’T be so timid with your controls that you leave too much time for the wind and/or tide to have their way.

Our eight-part Catamaran Sailing Skills series by Nigel Irens, in association with Pantaenius , is essential reading for anyone considering a catamaran after being more familiar with handling a monohull.

Part 3: Anchoring and picking up a mooring – how to make it look easy

Series author: Nigel Irens

One name stands out when you think of multihull design: the British designer Nigel Irens.

His career began when he studied Boatyard Management at what is now Solent University before opening a sailing school in Bristol and later moving to a multihull yard. He and a friend, Mark Pridie, won their class in the 1978 Round Britain race in a salvaged Dick Newick-designed 31-footer. Later, in 1985, he won the Round Britain Race with Tony Bullimore with whom he was jointly awarded Yachtsman of the Year.

His first major design success came in 1984 when his 80ft LOA catamaran Formule Tag set a new 24-hour run, clocking 518 miles. During the 1990s it was his designs that were dominant on the racecourse: Mike Birch’s Fujicolour , Philippe Poupon’s Fleury Michon VIII , Tony Bullimore’s Apricot . Most famous of all was Ellen MacArthur’s 75ft trimaran B&Q, which beat the solo round the world record in 2005.

His designs have included cruising and racing boats, powerboats and monohulls, but it is multis he is best known for.

See the full series here

A special thanks to The Moorings, which supplied a 4800 cat out of their base in Tortola, BVI. www.moorings.com

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Sailing A Catamaran

So you booked this cat for your next charter cruise. Problem is, you are a monohull sailor... Here is a quick guide, with all you need to know. When you are done, you definitely want to check this web site

Under Power

The main difference with a monohull is that a cat has TWO engines, one in each hull. Because the engines are located very far apart from each other, it makes maneuvering extremely easy - much, much easier than a single engine sailboat. A cat can literally pivot around its vertical center axis, i.e. turn on a dime, regardless of its size. I have maneuvered a 47ft. cat in very, very tight quarters... did not hit a thing around the boat, whereas I would certainly have chipped some little gelcoat with a mono. Here is a quick guide to maneuvering at slow speed:

• Forward in straight line: both engines forward - wheel centered
• Back in straight line: both engines back - wheel centered
• Steer to starboard: PORT engine forward, STARBOARD engine back - wheel centered or to starboard.
• Steer to port: STARBOARD engine forward, PORT engine back - wheel centered or to port.

Points of Sail

Cats do not go upwind as well as monohulls, although they have much improved lately in that department. You won't get much closer than 45/50¾ to the wind, going upwind. If the sea is choppy and you are on a smaller cat, like a 38ft. the yawing will be a little difficult - which is why you see so many charter cats simply motoring upwind. If you still decide to sail, bearing off a couple of degrees will usually alleviate the motion.

Now, going off the wind is what the cats are all about. Do not necessarily try to go dead downwind, but if you do, you probably want to be under jib or genoa only. A more efficient point of sail is between 120¾ and 150¾ at which you should sail at a speed of about 50% of the true wind. Needless to say, you will smoke quite a few monohulls there!

One of the cats' problems is that there is no heeling to give a feel that the boat is over-canvassed (the good news is that the bowl of fruits you left on the table won't go flying and smash against the stove!). If it becomes very windy, things can become a little hairy. So you have to be careful and stick with the information given by the charter company's briefer. The rule on a cat is that one starts de-powering the main sail using the traveler, because it has a very wide span, and it can be let go very quickly. Other than that, usually, on a 40ft., you should put the first reef at around 20kts. of wind, and the 2nd. reef at 25kts., and the headsail should be completely furled, to be on the safe side. Reefing has the same procedure as a monohull.

Changing Tacks

Jibing is the same procedure as a monohull... but tacking is different and can be frustrating. Here are the secrets to an efficient tack on a cat:

• Speed. Without sufficient speed, you simply will not tack... unless you start the engine! So get enough of it, just before tacking.
• Start bringing the main sail in close.
• Tack the boat decisively but smoothly through the wind without losing too much speed.
• Some sailors let the jib get backwinded before releasing it to the other tack, in order to help the bows to turn better through the wind.
• Once the bows are on the other side of the wind, bear off a little more than necessary until you get your original speed back.
• Get back on course once you have re-established you speed.

Here are some more secrets:

• Because a cat offers less resistance to the water than a monohull, it takes more time to slow down than a monohull. So make sure the boat has completely stopped.
• Keep the boat straight into the wind , using the engines at idle speed. Do not let the boat go sideways.
• As soon as the anchor is set, back the boat straight with both engines.
• You need to set the snubber with the bridle that is all cats are equipped with. Keep the boat into the wind as you're doing this.
• If you choose to use a mooring ball, you imperatively need to set a bridle. Do not cleat the ball line only on one hull.
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Power Catamarans

A word about power catamarans.

O ur POWER CATAMARANS are hard to beat for speed with comfort. In a rough water chop, the air-cushion between the hulls really smooths out the ride. These boats carry heavier loads than other boats and are very stable, making them ideal family boats for fishing, skiing, or cruising. They turn flat with virtually no banking, and will handle more power than other boats in the same length. For ultimate performance, twin motors are recommended. The cockpit offers exceptional space that you must see to believe. All of our cats are extremely strong and designed for rugged use. Take a close look at the photos and drawings. These are truly unique boats; once you have one you will use it as a standard for ride and room that most other boats will not measure up to.