So, you’re dreaming of sailing into the sunset, but there’s one big decision to make: monohull, catamaran, or trimaran? Each has its own personality—kind of like choosing between a reliable old truck, a luxury SUV, or a sports car with three wheels.
There’s no perfect choice—only the best boat for your needs, sailing style, and budget. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide!
If you’re still unsure, try chartering each type before you buy. Spend a week on a monohull, then a cat, then (if you can find one) a trimaran. Your future self will thank you!
Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and sailing styles of each to help you decide which one fits your dream voyage!
Monohull – The Classic Choice
If you picture a classic sailboat slicing through the waves, you’re thinking of a monohull. These single-hulled boats are the traditional, time-tested option that sailors have trusted for centuries.
Pros of a Monohull:
- Better upwind performance – Monohulls sail closer to the wind than multihulls.
- More fun for “real sailors” – You feel the heel (tilt), making sailing more dynamic.
- Easier to dock – One hull, one keel, less stress in tight marinas.
- Cheaper to buy and maintain – Generally more affordable than cats and tris.
- Self-righting – If a monohull capsizes, it can usually right itself (unlike a catamaran).
Cons of a Monohull:
- Less living space – Everything is packed into a single hull, so cabins and storage are tighter.
- More heel (tilt) – Not everyone enjoys cooking at a 30° angle.
- Slower speeds – Monohulls are usually slower than cats and tris, especially in light winds.
- More rolling at anchor – You’ll feel every wave at night unless you use a flopper stopper.
Who Should Choose a Monohull?
- Traditional sailors who love the feel of sailing and don’t mind heeling.
- People on a budget (you’ll find cheaper used monohulls than cats or tris).
- Those planning to sail solo or in small crews—easier to handle and dock.
- Anyone who wants to start sailing sooner rather than later—better to begin sailing now on a monohull than to spend 5–10 years saving for a dream catamaran.
Catamaran – The Spacious & Stable Cruiser
Want double the hulls, double the fun? A catamaran is a floating condo that offers stability, space, and speed—perfect for long-term cruising or island hopping.
Pros of a Catamaran:
- More space – Two hulls = bigger cabins, huge salons, and often a flybridge!
- Stable & comfortable – No heeling means you can drink coffee without spilling it.
- Faster in light winds – Cats can cruise faster than monohulls in the right conditions.
- Shallow draft – You can anchor closer to shore since there’s no deep keel.
- Great at anchor – They don’t roll like monohulls, making them comfier at night.
Cons of a Catamaran:
- More expensive – Buying, docking, and maintaining a cat is pricier than a monohull.
- Harder to find marina space – You take up two slips (or pay extra for one big enough).
- Not great upwind – They sail well downwind, but struggle going into the wind.
- Capsize risk – Unlike monohulls, cats don’t self-right if they flip.
Who Should Choose a Catamaran?
- Cruisers who want comfort and space (great for families or long-term liveaboards).
- People who get seasick—cats barely heel, so they’re gentler on the stomach.
- Those who love shallow water cruising (Caribbean, Bahamas, and coastal trips).
- If you can afford it—catamarans are expensive, so make sure your budget fits before deciding.
Trimaran – The Speed Demon
If you want speed, performance, and something a little different, a trimaran might be for you. These three-hulled boats combine the best of monohulls and catamarans—fast, stable, and fun.
Pros of a Trimaran:
- Fastest of the three – Tris are crazy fast, even in light winds.
- Stable like a catamaran – Less heeling than a monohull, but more than a cat.
- More efficient upwind – Unlike cats, trimarans sail well in all directions.
- Can be lightweight – Many models are trailerable and easy to launch.
Cons of a Trimaran:
- Less living space – Tris usually have a small main hull with limited room inside.
- Expensive & rare – Fewer on the market means higher prices and fewer spare parts.
- Harder to dock – They’re wide like catamarans, but without the same interior volume.
Who Should Choose a Trimaran?
- Performance sailors who love speed and efficiency.
- Those who want stability but don’t need as much living space as a cat.
- Anyone looking for a unique and exciting alternative to traditional boats.
Final Thoughts – Which One is Right for You?
- Want a classic, budget-friendly boat that handles well? Go monohull.
- Want comfort, space, and stability for long cruises? Go catamaran.
- Want to go fast and be different? Go trimaran.
There is no “best” choice—just the right one for your needs and budget. If you’re unsure, try chartering different types before you buy. Spend a week on a monohull, then a cat, then (if you can find one) a trimaran.
And remember: Only you know what boat fits your sailing dreams! It might be a brand-new, high-tech model or a beautifully restored classic. The important thing is to get out there and sail—whether it’s on a 30-year-old monohull or a shiny new catamaran.
So, what’s your pick? Are you a monohull purist, a catamaran cruiser, or a trimaran thrill-seeker?
