One Hull or Two?

Illustration by Nick L Ange

 Sailing boats with one hull are "mono-hulls", those with two are "catamarans". As we plan for our life aboard we must reach a decision of what vehicle is the best for our needs. Each one has it's pros and cons. As I have been researching possible boats for our voyage, like most I had only looked into mono-hulls. Partly from tradition, partly because of availability and certainly from lack of knowledge about catamarans.

But something changed to make me inquire this week into that other world known as catamarans. For several years now I have been following another pair of sailors completing a five year circumnavigation. As I came across the latest update I noticed their boat is now for sale, and for the first time I actually noticed it was a catamaran. This lead me into a week long of research and discovery into this new possibility.

 I found a whole lot of information, and I suggest everyone do their own due diligence before plunking down all their money for a boat. I'm not sure at this point if we have come to any final conclusion yet, but we have walked away from the discussion with an open mind to considering either for our trip. I guess it really comes down to where your sailing, and what is the most comfortable decision is for you.

Cats are better when it comes to:
Speed
Comfort
Space

Monohulls are better when it comes to:
Sea worthiness in a bad storm
Cost
Finding dockage

 This last year, We attended the Americas Cup races in San Diego and as many others did we marveled at the catamarans speed and agility on the race course. And it seems that more options in this category are being designed and built for cruisers as well. Just look at any ad's for a charter yacht and most likely they will be showing a catamaran. For us, we will look at the further refinements made over the next few years as we continue to plan for our future purchase but are certainly intrigued by the many new options now presented.

In this video you will see one of the boats we would really have to consider if we were to go with a catamaran presented in a very unique way. The boat is the Performance Cruising Gemini 105Mc.

So , tell us what are your thoughts or advise on the subject? We are eager to continue the discussion.