twinhull

Twinhull refers to a type of marine vessel characterized by its design featuring two parallel hulls of equal size, connected by a deck or frame. This configuration is also known as a catamaran. The separation of the hulls provides a wider beam, which contributes to increased stability compared to monohulls.

The inherent stability of twin hulls makes them suitable for a variety of applications, including ferries, passenger catamarans, and sailing vessels. The two hulls create a reduced wetted surface area relative to displacement when compared to a monohull of similar volume, which can lead to improved speed and fuel efficiency. This reduced drag is a significant advantage in naval architecture.

Twinhull designs can be found in both sailing and powered vessels. In sailing, the wide beam of a catamaran offers excellent stability and allows for high speeds, especially when sailing upwind. In powered applications, the stability is beneficial for passenger comfort and for carrying heavy loads. The space between the hulls can also be utilized for various purposes, such as mounting equipment or creating deck space. Despite their advantages, twin hulls can sometimes present challenges with maneuverability in tight spaces due to their wide beam and can be more susceptible to pitch-poling in extreme conditions if not properly designed.