One of the first choices when planning a sailing holiday is the boat itself: catamaran vs monohull. Both will carry you to the same beautiful bays, but they feel completely different to sail and to live aboard. A catamaran has two hulls and feels like a stable floating apartment; a monohull is the classic single-hulled yacht that leans into the wind and feels like "proper" sailing. Here's how they compare, so you can pick the right one for your trip.
Catamaran: space and stability
A catamaran sits flat on the water and barely heels, which makes it wonderfully stable – a big plus if anyone in the group worries about seasickness or wants a steady platform for relaxing. Its two hulls give enormous space: a huge deck and cockpit, a big shaded "saloon", and private double cabins in each hull. Shallow draft lets you anchor closer to the beach. The trade-offs are a higher charter price and less of that thrilling, heeling sailing feel.
Monohull: the classic sailing feel
A monohull is what most people picture when they think of a sailing yacht. It heels (leans) as the wind fills the sails, cutting through the water with a lively, engaging feel that keen sailors love. Monohulls are more affordable to charter, point higher into the wind, and slip into any standard marina berth. The cabins and deck are cosier than a catamaran's, and the motion is livelier – part of the fun for some, less so for others.
Catamaran vs monohull at a glance
| Catamaran | Monohull | |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Very stable, sails flat | Heels under sail |
| Space | Huge deck & cabins | Cosier, compact |
| Sailing feel | Relaxed, gentle | Lively, engaging |
| Seasickness | Less likely | More motion |
| Price | Higher | More affordable |
| Anchoring | Shallow draft, close to shore | Fits any marina berth |
Which should you choose?
Choose a catamaran if space, comfort and stability matter most – ideal for groups of friends, families, or anyone prone to seasickness who wants a relaxed, sociable holiday. Choose a monohull if you love the authentic sailing feel, want to keep costs down, or are learning to sail and want to understand how a yacht really behaves. There's no wrong answer – only what suits your crew.
Fancy the space and stability of a cat? Take a look at our catamaran sailing trips – or browse all our sailing trips to compare.
Frequently asked questions
Is a catamaran better than a monohull?
Neither is "better" – they suit different tastes. Catamarans win on space and stability; monohulls offer a livelier sailing feel and a lower price.
Which is better for seasickness?
A catamaran. Because it sails flat and barely heels, it has a gentler motion that many people find easier on the stomach.
Which is cheaper to charter?
A monohull is generally more affordable to charter than a catamaran of comparable length.
Conclusion
Catamaran or monohull, both open the door to the same turquoise bays – the choice comes down to space and comfort versus the classic sailing feel and value. Not sure which suits you? Explore our catamaran trips and decide.
