monomaran

A monomaran is a type of watercraft that features a single hull. This distinguishes it from multihulls such as catamarans or trimarans. The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "mono" meaning one, and "maran" derived from catamaran, referring to the hull configuration. Historically, most traditional boats and ships were monomarans, including dugout canoes, sailboats, and early steamships. Their design is characterized by a single, central hull that provides buoyancy and stability.

The advantages of monomarans often include their simplicity in construction and operation compared to multihulls. They can also exhibit a different sailing or motoring behavior. In sailing, monohulls can heel or lean significantly, which is a characteristic part of their performance and feel. They may also have a lower draft, allowing them to navigate shallower waters. However, for a given beam, monomarans can be less stable than their multihull counterparts, especially at rest or in certain sea conditions. Their single hull can also contribute to a more pronounced rolling motion. Despite the rise of multihulls in certain recreational and racing categories, the monomaran remains the dominant design for a vast array of vessels worldwide, from small dinghies to large commercial ships.