Why choose a catamaran for your next sailing holiday?
By Helen Eltringham on 22nd January, 2024
One of the first questions we ask you when you enquire about a sailing holiday is ‘catamaran or monohull?’
Both are wonderful, both will give you the holiday of a lifetime, both can accommodate up to eight guests…but which one should you choose?
The popularity of the catamaran has rocketed in the last couple of years, and lucky for you our catamaran Aurous is ready to explore the Mediterranean blue!
So…why choose a catamaran?
Catamarans are super for…space
Aurous catamaran is divided over three different levels.
- The lower level comprises of your cabins (bedrooms). There are four spacious cabins with en suites plus an additional cabin for the crew.
- The middle level is where you will spend most of your days. It features an interior and exterior dining area as well as space on the bow for cocktails and sunbathing. Of course we can’t forget the galley (kitchen) where your chef will whip you up some culinary delights.
- Finally on the top level we have the flybridge. This is where the captain will sail the catamaran from. The perfect spot to take it all in and admire the view.
With three levels to enjoy, a catamaran is perfect for large families or groups of friends to enjoy quality time together whilst also having space to enjoy those quiet moments.
Catamarans are delightful for…depth
Depth, or draught as it is more commonly called in the nautical world, is a very important consideration when you’re on a sailing holiday.
Quite simply…you never want to hit the bottom!
Catamarans notoriously have a shallower draught than a monohull. This means you can get closer to shore in some bays or tie to a quay in others.
Good examples of this is in the fishing village of Petriti, Corfu and the town quay in Lakka, Paxos, both of which are popular destinations in our ‘Typical Week Aboard’ itinerary.
Catamarans are perfect for…privacy
Whether you are on a long awaited family holiday, a romantic getaway for two or even a cabin charter we appreciate that time together is precious.
Due to the layout of the catamaran you are not constantly being watched by fellow guests or crew alike.
The Captain can sail the catamaran in a separate location to where you are sunbathing and the Chef can be preparing lunch whilst you’re catching up over the dining table. Your crew will tend to your every need whilst giving you the personal space you deserve.
Moor in a secluded bay for the utmost privacy or ask your crew to drop the tent at the stern if you are on a town quay.
Catamarans are cracking for…cabins
Although the majority of your time will be spent in the water, on the deck and exploring ashore, the comfort of your cabin is of the utmost importance.
It is your own private retreat where you will relax after a day on the water and where you will excitingly prepare for the day ahead.
Aurous boasts one master cabin complete with vanity area, king size bed and en suite; two further double cabins and the option for a third double or a bunk.
Generally speaking a catamaran will often have multiple similar sized cabins, meaning no one draws the ‘short straw’ when it comes to sleeping arrangements.
Catamarans are serene for…sailing!
I suppose I should mention sailing at some point!
If you love the idea of harnessing the wind and enjoying a stellar sail, but aren’t so keen on the tipping that is inevitable on a monohull, then catamaran life is for you.
Feel the wind on your face and eat up the miles all whilst your morning coffee or afternoon tipple remains in your glass.
We always recommend a catamaran for those who have not sailed before or those in mixed groups. If Mum is desperate to record the top speed of the season but Dad normally prefers a villa holiday then a catamaran is the perfect compromise.
Have you been swayed towards a catamaran (figuratively of course, see above!)?
Contact Helen to discuss all things Aurous.
If Greece doesn’t take your fancy, enjoy this read by Robin, our Madagascar specialist.
Written by Helen Eltringham
Top Travel Tip
If holidays are precious and treasured, then sailing holidays are the jewel in your crown.
Don’t spend one more holiday on a quayside looking at the yacht in the background. Instead, be the people having the time of their lives on that yacht!
– Helen
