catamaran

A catamaran is a type of multihulled boat consisting of two parallel hulls of equal length connected by a deck or bridgedeck. The design results in a wide beam, which provides high initial stability and a large usable deck area. Compared with a monohull of similar length, a catamaran typically drafts less water, granting access to shallow coastal areas; it also has lower hull drag, enabling higher potential speeds under sail or power. The bridgedeck between the hulls creates living space and helps rigidity.

The concept of two parallel hulls has ancient roots in the Indian Ocean and Pacific where double-hulled canoes were common. The term catamaran is believed to derive from a Tamil word. Modern catamarans emerged in the 20th century as fiberglass and composite construction allowed production boats for cruising and racing; small day sailors such as the Hobie Cat popularized the form, and later larger cruising and charter catamarans became common.

Variants: Sailing catamarans use sails and rigging similar to monohulls; motor catamarans use engines with efficiencies from their hull shape. They range from trailerable daysailers to large sailing cruising cats and high-performance racing catamarans. Typical configurations include twin rudders, a bridgedeck cockpit, and a wide, dry deck area.

Advantages and limitations: Benefits include stability at rest, comfortable motion, ample deck and cabin space, and shallow drafts. Downsides include higher upfront cost, more complex systems, and wider overall beam that complicates docking and marina access. High-performance and cruising designs continue to evolve, expanding the role of catamarans in recreational sailing, charter, and passenger transport.