A catamaran offers more space, a steadier ride and a shallow draft; a monohull costs less to charter and to berth and sails better upwind. Families and larger crews more often choose a catamaran, couples and keen sailors a monohull.
1. The main differences
| What | Catamaran | Monohull |
|---|---|---|
| Space | saloon and cockpit on one level, cabins separated by the hulls | less space, cabins closer together |
| Heel | almost none | heels under sail |
| Draft | shallow: anchors closer to the beach | deeper: needs more water |
| Sailing | quick downwind, weaker upwind | better upwind, more feel |
| Handling in a marina | two engines, turns on the spot, but wide | narrower, but one engine |
2. Costs on the route
Chartering a catamaran costs more than a monohull of similar length. In ACI marinas a catamaran pays double for a berth in Jezera, Vodice and Skradin, and 50% more at Piškera from 1 July to 31 August; park tickets go by the boat’s length, not its type. Fuel: a catamaran has two engines, but often sails or motors on one.
3. Who suits which
- A family with small children or 8+ people: a catamaran (see available ones).
- A couple or 4–6 friends who want to sail: a monohull (see available ones).
- Someone in the crew gets seasick easily: a catamaran.
- A smaller budget or many nights in marinas: a monohull.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a special licence for a catamaran?
No, the same licence as for a monohull applies; experience with twin engines helps when mooring. See Licences and papers.
Is a catamaran safer?
Both are safe when you sail by the forecast. A catamaran does not heel, so reef earlier in a strong wind.
Is there room for a catamaran in every marina?
Mostly yes, but wide berths are fewer; in season, call ahead or spend the night on a buoy.
