fastest catamaran speed boat

My Cruiser Life Magazine

Fastest Catamarans for Cruising in 2023

Catamarans appeal to sailors and would-be sailors for a variety of reasons. One of those reasons is the need for speed—cats have a reputation for being faster. There are dozens of brands and tons of great boat designs that capitalize on this, and designers are constantly pushing the bounds and asking, “Really, how fast can a catamaran go?”

Performance sailing catamarans may look like your run-of-the-mill Leopard or Lagoon from a distance. But these boats are full of little tricks to boost their speeds—narrow hull designs, retractable daggerboards instead of keels, and extensive use of cutting-edge lightweight materials like carbon fiber. All of this adds up, so expect to pay double, triple, or maybe much more for a truly fast catamaran. And that means there are far fewer boats on the water, and owning one puts you in an exclusive club.

Neel trimarans, what is a fast catamaran, how fast can a catamaran go, are fast catamarans the boat you’re looking for, fast catamarans faqs, top brands of fast catamarans.

Here’s a list of some of the best-known and trail-blazing fast catamaran makers. These companies are making luxury performance catamarans suited for owners who want to cruise fast. These aren’t barebones race boats built for nothing but speed. Instead, these are comfortable boats that will outperform most others in their class.

Most performance boats will be 45 feet long or more. Small catamarans don’t fall into this category, and most production liveaboard catamarans are built too heavily in order to save money.

For more than two decades, Gunboat has been setting the bar on what a performance catamaran can be. They took state-of-the-art technologies from the racing world and applied them to family-friendly cruising catamarans. The company started in the US in 2002. One of the company’s stated missions is to create boats that sail faster than the wind in anything more than 6 knots of breeze.

Since 2016, Gunboat has built top-quality boats at their La Grande-Motte, France, facility. However, they are still a boutique builder making only a handful of boats yearly. Their current offerings include the 68, 72, and 80. All boats have narrow hulls, retractable boards, high-performance sail plans, carbon fiber construction, and luxurious living accommodations.

The first hull of the Gunboat 68, CONDOR, was launched in 2019 and set out on a trans-Atlantic crossing immediately after its sea trials. The crew wrote a detailed report of the experience and the boat’s performance. CONDOR exceeded 30 knots occasionally, but average speeds were between 14 and 17 knots. Their best 24 hours saw 328 nm (an average speed of 13.7 knots).

The company motto says it all. “Life is too short to sail a slow boat.”

Outremer Catamarans is one of the original makers of French performance cats, in business since 1984. According to their website, the company has made over 300 boats since then. A large-scale production boat maker they are not. These are custom-built fast catamarans of the highest quality, made for safety, comfort, and speed. Outremer recently received much attention when popular YouTubers Sailing La Vagabonde sailed aboard an Outremer 45 for several years.

Currently, Outremer offers boats ranging from the 45 to the 5X (48 to 60 feet long). The X models (4X and 5X) are even more performance-oriented, with more extensive use of carbon fiber and a more race-inspired sail plan.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riley Whitelum (@riley.whitelum)

Catana is yet another French performance brand of luxury cruising catamaran. Today, Catana Group also makes Bali cruising catamarans, effectively marketing Catanas to the performance set and Bali’s to the cruising and charter set. https://www.catana.com

Presently, Catana is only making two models, the OC50 and the 53. Historically, however, Catana has made many beautiful boats. Notably, the 471 is a fast cruising catamaran that is a favorite among long-distance cruisers. On the smaller side, the 431 and even the 401 and 381 are quick and fun sailers that move better than their competition.

Catanas are easily recognizable by their daggerboards and narrow hulls with asymmetrical designs. In addition, they use a lightweight composite layup that results in a very stiff boat that weighs less than their competitors. Still, Catanas are not on the same level as an Outremer 5X or Gunboat–these are fiberglass boats that are built better than the competition and made to outperform many other boats.

HH Catamarans is Gunboat’s first real competitor in the high-end performance cat market. They started in 2012 and are part of the Hudson Yacht Group. The boats are designed by Morrelli & Melvin, a highly-regarded multihull design firm, and are built in Xiamen, China, or Cebu, Philippines.

HH has boats in their model line from 44 to 88 feet long. The company focuses on providing what owners and sailors want and are looking for, so you’ll see lots of customizability within the lineup. They include features you won’t find from a lot of builders, including lots of planned real estate for solar panels (5kW or more!), hybrid drive systems, and ocean cruising OC (keels) or sport cruising SC (daggerboard) models to pick from.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by HH Catamarans (@hh.catamarans)

Balance started in South Africa in 2013. They focus on making semi-custom, comfortable performance yachts that are strong and safe and can be easily operated single-handedly or by a couple. They are live-aboard boats that strike a balance between comfort and performance. But, compared to the current offerings from Lagoon or Leopard, it’s clear that Balance cats skew far more toward performance than others do.

Models currently range from the 442 to the 750. They’re available with daggerboards or keels and made with extensive carbon fiber and all epoxy-resin composites. According to their website, the current record speed for a Balance 482 while surfing is 28 knots. She’ll cruise all day between 8 and 14 on a reach, though. They describe the 482 as a “trend-setting circumnavigator”—the perfect boat for your sail around the world route .

Kinetic Catamarans are designed by Simonis Voogd and built in Knysna, South Africa. Like others on the list, these are semi-custom, luxury, performance cruising cats with an emphasis on speed. They have all-carbon construction, carbon spars, laminated sails, and a forward sailing cockpit deck layout.

Since they are truly semi-custom, each boat is spec-ed out to each buyer’s vision. This includes standard or racing rigs, centerboards or daggerboards, and many furnishings, layouts, and outfitting options. Kinetic currently offers 54 and 62-foot versions.

What’s better than two hulls? Three, maybe. That is, three might be better if your goal is truly fast sailing. Neel Trimarans is a new French builder attempting to capitalize on this simple fact by merging the best of all worlds—the space and liveability of a cruising catamaran with the performance, sail efficiency, and stability of an offshore-capable tri.

The company presently offers models between 43 and 65 feet. They say cruising speeds are reliably over 10 knots, with 15 to 18 knots when the breeze freshens. Compared to cats, these boats’ rigid central hulls allow for stronger rigging and better upwind performance, and the central keel allows better tracking and rudder control.

Now you’ve looked at some fast cats, you might wonder what constitutes “fast.”

You will be wowed if you’re selling your 30-foot monohull and moving up to a 50-foot cat. But if you’re coming from the world of car and plane travel, sailboats of any ilk are anything but “fast.”

The first thing to accept is that all sailboats are slow . This shocks many people who think they’d like to travel and see the world by sailboat. The marketing of these “fast cats” is everywhere, and the idea that the faster boat is safer because you can “beat the weather” is especially pervasive. No sailboat at sea can outrun a front or storm cell moving at 30 or 40 knots.

In truth, the fastest catamaran you can comfortably live aboard and cruise on will average out under 15 knots . In similar conditions, production catamarans might be doing 10 to 12. The monohull speeds of the same length might be 7 or 8 knots, and a bigger monohull with similar living space might be doing 10 or 12.

So don’t be lulled or wowed by these vessel’s maximum speed or “surfing” claims—they’re fun numbers to kick around with your dock neighbors, but what really matters is how many miles you can tick off in a day of travel.

To get more speed than this, you’ll either push the boat in ways that are not safe or comfortable at sea, or you will have to find bigger, more advanced, and even more expensive vessels. Most boats on this list are luxury liveaboard that is safe to travel the world.

But are they fast? As the old sailor saying goes, “Nothing goes to weather like a 747.” Sailing is still sailing. And sailing is a slow, slow, slow way to see the world.

Traditional monohull sailboats are displacement vessels that are limited by a few rules. As they push the water out of their way, they build up bow and stern waves. Push too much water, and the waves get bigger, pulling the vessel farther into the water. So no matter how you power it, it’s limited to hull speed. Hull speed is a factor of waterline length, width of the hull, and displacement.

Modern designs favor flat bottoms like powerboats, with the idea that they can surf and plane to get more speed. Catamarans take this even further, and with some clever design tricks , it’s possible to get a catamaran well above displacement speeds for extended runs. Of course, a lot depends on the hull type, and other factors are also at play.

Catamarans are very sensitive to weight . Their speed comes from being a lightweight boat with the ability to fly across the water, contrary to how a heavy monohull plows through it. The heavier the boat, the lower it sits in the water.

Therefore, adding weight to any catamaran will slow it down. To this end, finding a performance-oriented liveaboard catamaran less than 47 feet long is difficult. Less than this, and the narrow hulls simply can’t hold the weight of you and your stuff.

Finally, there’s the consideration of the environment you’re sailing in. The wind is obvious—they sail fastest on a broad reach. And, just like any other type of boat, they are slowest when close-hauled and on a run.

Rough seas are another of the catamaran characteristics to consider in your need for speed. Often the boat is capable of more, but the ride is rough and uncomfortable.

So you shorten sail and slow down to find the sweet spot of comfortable sailing speed—enough power to maintain a good speed without pounding your brains out and causing undo fatigue on the crew. And, of course, the rougher the conditions, the slower the boat’s performance as she slows and in the troughs and speeds “downhill.”

While they are faster than other vessels, that’s certainly not the only thing catamarans have going for them. Fast is a relative term, and “fast” sailing is still awfully slow. So unless you already love sailing, sailing fast might not have as much appeal as you’d expect.

Catamarans are great vessels with a lot of pluses. And these fast modern catamarans are some of the best—luxurious living space aboard comfortable, top-quality vessels.

What are the fastest catamarans?

Like those used in recent America’s Cup races, pure racing catamarans use foils to lift their hulls out of the water. Whether performance-oriented or not, regular catamarans for cruising are much slower, averaging between 10 and 15 knots. Still, they generally outperform monohull sailboats of similar lengths in most conditions, especially when sailing downwind.

How fast does a 50 foot catamaran sail?

There are many designs of catamarans, and they all sail differently. In some conditions, a pure racing catamaran may sail significantly faster than the wind speed. Most cruising catamarans, whether designated as “performance” or not, will max out around 12 to 15 knots. Momentary peak speeds may be significantly higher.

What is the fastest point of sail catamaran?

As with all sailboats, the fastest point of sail will be near a beam reach, where the apparent wind is 90 degrees from the boat’s bow. Since cats travel faster over the water, this usually means that the true wind is off the quarter, with a true wind angle of about 120 degrees off the bow.

How fast is the Gunboat 68?

Gunboat 68, hull number 1 (68-01), was launched in 2019. Immediately after sea trials, CONDOR crossed the Atlantic . The crew reported the vessel’s max speed exceeded 30 knots occasionally, with averages between 14 and 17 knots. Their best day was 328 nm, making the average speed for those 24 hours 13.7 knots (15.8 mph).

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Bear's Books

7 Fastest Speedboats of 2023

By Emily Duane

If you crave the adrenaline rush of high cruising speeds on the open water, a speedboat is the marine craft for you. According to a variety of boating authorities, the average top speed of a powerboat is 70 miles per hour (mph), with high-performance competition boats well into the 100s. The Guinness World Record holder for the fastest boat in the world is the jet-powered hydroplane Spirit of Australia, which reached an eye-watering speed of approximately 317 mph.

The speed-boat market offers multiple categories of boats designed to go fast, including V-bottom, catamaran and center-console body styles . They’re equipped with two to four motors—inboard or outboard—to provide all that power that pushes the limits on the water.

To find the best new powerboat for you, do some research and compare the specs and features of different brands and models, understanding that different engine packages and other add-ons affect the price. To start you off, here’s a list of the fastest speed boats on the market for 2023.

1. Nor-Tech 390 Sport

The 390 Sport from Nor-Tech easily lets you flirt with 80-mph speeds. This center-console boat offers stability on the water and is comfortable for everything from speedy rides to fishing and diving. The 390 Sport comes with triple or quad Mercury motors. Enthusiasts have topped 100 mph powered by quad Mercury Racing Verado 400R outboards on jack plates.

Style: Center console

Price: Starting at $700,000

Length: 39 feet

Beam: 10 feet

Weight: 12,500 pounds

Top speed: ~80 mph

Nor-Tech 390 Sport Full Specs

2. Baja Marine 36 Outlaw

To achieve high speeds without fully liquefying your insides, Baja Marine’s 36 Outlaw is an excellent option. Whether you’re taking your chances at a poker run , cruising to sand bars or treating friends to wild tubing rides, the Outlaw is here for it. Enthusiasts have hit top speeds of around 84 mph with Mercury Racing 565 engines.

Style: V-bottom

Price: Starting at $307,000

Length: 37 feet, 1 inch

Beam: 8 feet, 6 inches

Weight: 9,300 pounds

Top speed: ~84 mph

Baja Marine 36 Outlaw Full Specs

3. Mystic C4000

The dual-hull Mystic C4000 balances comfort and speed, offering a day of adventure on the water that can effortlessly go from leisurely to thrilling in seconds. Enthusiasts claim this boat is something straight out of a James Bond movie. Easy to drive and powered by just two outboard engines, the C4000 can top 100 mph, making it a shoo-in for offshore racing.

Style: Catamaran

Price: Starting at $785,000

Length: 43 feet, 10 inches

Beam: 10 feet, 11 inches

Weight: 6,800 pounds

Top speed: ~120 mph

Mystic Powerboats C4000 Full Specs

4. Donzi Marine 38 ZRC

Fast, fun and attractive, the Donzi Marine 38 ZRC experienced a revival in 2020 with its unique fighter jet windscreens and a V-bottom hull designed for speed. Buyers can choose between Mercury Racing 565 HP Bravos or staggered 860s with #6 drives to power this model. Enthusiasts have reported exceeding 120 mph in this powerboat.

Price: Starting at $560,000

Length: 38 feet, 1 inch

Beam: 8 feet, 1 inch

Weight: 11,500 pounds

Donzi Marine 38 ZRC Full Specs

5. Outerlimits SV-50

If you’re looking for the marine equivalent of a race car, the Outerlimits SV-50 is the ticket. This sleek and luxurious powerboat has room for up to five passengers and is designed for speedy thrills on the open water. Powered with Mercury Racing 1350/1100 engines, the SV-50 hit a top speed of 145 mph during a test ride in early 2023 on a mid-30-degree day in Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay.

Price: Starting at $1.5 million

Length: 50 feet, 1 inch

Beam: 9 feet

Weight: 10,900 pounds

Top speed: ~145 mph

Outerlimits SV-50 Full Specs

6. Fountain Powerboats 42 Lightning

If you’re looking for a powerboat that offers a smooth yet forceful push to top speeds and a comfortable and stable ride once you’re there, you’ll get it in Fountain’s 42 Lightning. It goes from 0 to 30 mph in 9.5 seconds, and the only limit to top speeds is your nerve—this boat can hit 160 mph with 1,350/1,550 packages.

Price: Starting at $685,000

Length: 42 feet

Beam: 8 feet, 4 inches

Weight: 13,400 pounds

Top speed: 160+ mph

Fountain Powerboats 42 Lightning Full Specs

7. Eliminator 28 Speedster

With a name that includes the words “eliminator” and “speedster,” it should be no surprise that this catamaran zips to the top of this list with max speeds of 170 mph. Available with inboard and outboard options and a variety of deck and bow configurations, the Eliminator 28 Speedster can be customized for however you want to spend your time on the water.

Price: Starting at $300,000

Length: 28 feet, 10 inches

Weight: 4,000 pounds

Top speed: ~170 mph

Eliminator 28 Speedster Full Specs

6 Best Fire Starters for Survival in 2024

3-Season vs. 4-Season Tents—What’s the Difference?

More Like This

Can You Bring a Tent to the Beach?

Hi-Tec V-Lite Altitude Pro Lite Hiking Boots: Review

If You Like Outdoor Gear At 50% Off, This Is The Sale For You

Tips to Get Started Fly Fishing

5 of the World’s Most Dangerous Outdoor Jobs

Rollors Is A Great Backyard Game For All Ages

Emerald Tails: Elizabeth Bottorf Memorial Redfish Tournament

How Bear Grylls Makes His Water Safe to Drink

Yachting World

Digital Edition

Fast Bluewater Cruisers: the best new performance bluewater catamarans on the market 2018

Toby Hodges
August 20, 2018

Many monohull sailors who are thinking of converting to mulithulls for distance cruising seek a combination of the speed and feel of performance cruisers together with the space multihulls provide. To offer proper bluewater cruising ability yet not be too sluggish, a fast cruising cat or tri needs to be smartly designed with payload in mind and built relatively light. Here ’ s where the fast distance cruisers like Outremer, Catana, Swisscat, Seawind, Balance, Atlantic, Neel and Ocean Explorer help offer that potential sabbatical or retirement dream.

Just launched: Outremer 51

The original Outremer 51 launched in 2014 and proved popular, selling more than 50 models. It also garnered a number of European and US yacht of the year titles. But things can always improve, so the French catamaran builder has updated the design with the help of feedback from hundreds of owners. The improvements are superficial and substantial: the interior and exterior styling has been changed, but the boat’s performance has also been tweaked. Not only does this make the boat more fun, it is also “an important safety attribute”, says Outremer. With speeds in excess of 20 knots perfectly achievable, you could certainly outrun bad weather and potentially clock up 400 miles over 24 hours. This sleek-looking boat has on-trend reverse bows, curved coachroof and low-profile steering positions. The helms are slightly raised above the cockpit with a clear 360° view out over the coachroof. It may lack the real estate of a flybridge helm station, but it saves weight and allows the boom to be lower on the mast, all of which helps stability and performance. Control lines all lead back across the coachroof to winches within easy reach of the helmsman, except for the mainsheet, which runs along a track on the aft crossbeam behind the cockpit.

The saloon has comfortable seating and a table for six to eight, with a forward-looking navstation that is a good size. Accommodation is three or four cabins, depending on whether you opt for an owner’s-only hull. If you do, there’s a separate heads and shower, desk, seating and storage. Outremer makes much of the boat’s quietness, free from the grinding and cracking noises you hear as some cats flex. For liveaboards this could be a welcome feature.

First impressions

Outremer has done an impressive job of updating its most popular model, outside and in. I like the modern, muscular look of the sculpted-out topsides and dreadnought bows. Improved build techniques – partly acquired since its takeover of Gunboat – have also allowed the yard to save 600kg over the original model. The 51 has enough of a go-faster appeal for those converting from performance monohulls – the majority of Outremer’s clients, says sales manager Matthieu Rougevin-Baville – while at the same time retaining the seaworthy build and features for which the brand is known. It’s about keeping things simple, good-looking yet durable. For those with the budget, this is the ideal size of boat, in terms of speed bought by long waterline length, volume for accommodation and payload capacity (3 tonnes), for long-term, fast bluewater sailing.

At a glance…

LOA: 51ft 3in (15.65m) Beam: 24ft 4in (7.42m) Draught: 3ft 1in-7ft 7in (0.94m-2.31m) Displacement: 13.7 tonnes Price: from €735,000 Contact: Catamaran Outremer

Just launched: Ocean Explorer 60

Rubbing shoulders with Nautor’s Swan in Jakobstad, Finland, the new team behind this boat have a long track record in building low-impact yachts with high performance. And it’s not just a postcode they share with Swan – German Frers is also the designer of this yacht. The OE60 is the first in a range running to 78ft. There is carbon  load-point reinforcing and an  all-carbon rig for performance, with the further option of a carbon hull as well. Cutter rigged with a self-tacking jib and staysail, it has a long, sculpted bowsprit for launching downwind sails. Dual helm stations on each hull have long clear views ahead.

I wrote about this catamaran during its conception five years ago, but La Grande Motte was the first time I had seen one. Wow, talk about worth the wait… this is quite simply one of the most impressive luxury multihulls I have been aboard. Four main subcontractors to Nautor’s Swan and Baltic Yachts formed the company and the quality of their craftsmanship is, as you would expect, world class. It is the first production cat for Frers, yet the Argentinian designer has managed to maintain his reputation for alluring lines – this is a long, low and particularly elegant design. I like the helms right in the quarters, a more familiar position for monohull sailors, while the glass-based coachroof allows the helmsman a reasonable sight to the opposite bow. Step inside and it is the true panoramic view these vertical windows all combine to give that really appeals. The forward cockpit is a practical area for manning halyards or standing watch. I also like the clean, spreader-less rig and massive yet practical stowage areas. The skipper told me he had sailed a Gunboat 60 across the Pacific and that this OE60 matches its performance. A key is the C-foils, the most reliable appendage system he has used. This was the second OE60 to be built (the first has done four Atlantic and one Pacific crossing in four years) and is being used for charter. What I’d give for a week aboard this…

LOA: 60ft 7in (18.50m) Beam: 29ft 8in (9.07m) Draught: 2ft 6in-6ft 6in (0.85m-2.00m) Displacement: 18 tonnes Price: from €3.6m Contact: Frers

Just launched: Seawind 1600

The new flagship performance cruiser from the Australian brand made a welcome world debut at La Grande Motte in April. The Reichel Pugh design sits in a similar market to the Outremer 51 – a fast composite cruiser, aimed at couples going long-distance cruising. The first six 1600s sold off plans and Seawind, which owns Corsair, now builds in Vietnam. All boats are built using vinylester and Diam foam. The 1600 is Reichel Pugh’s first production multihull and has a practical air about it that sailors will appreciate. “It has been properly designed to sail fast when loaded,” says Seawind sales manager Jay Nolan. The helmsman can steer from under the solid bimini or can stand outboard, with a good view over the low coachroof. Retractable, captive daggerboards, along with foam-cored lifting rudders in cassettes, allow true shoal draught capability. The daggerboards are housed underdeck and controlled from the cockpit. The running rigging is, unusually, led under the coachroof and bridgedeck aft to a single central winch on the aft crossbeam. Reefing lines and the self-tacking jib sheet also lead to this protected, vertically mounted winch. The cockpit is smallish, linked to the interior via a huge sliding window.

I quickly took to this boat. The choice of performance monohull specialists to design a cruising cat is unusual, yet here the combination of Reichel Pugh’s reputation for winning lines and Seawind’s three decades of catamaran building experience has worked admirably. Sailors will appreciate the practical elements incorporated throughout. The design itself has particularly narrow hulls at waterline level, a low freeboard and coachroof, and the incorporation of a proper payload capacity into the light displacement. The use of captive boards and rudder cassettes allow for both sailing to windward and shoal cruising. The cassettes also create the option to replace  or repair a blade easily and the low coachroof allows proper forward visibility  from either helm. With the addition of larger portholes in the cabins, the 1600 gives an interesting fast cruising option for couples.

LOA: 51ft 8in (15.74m) Beam: 25ft 10in (7.90m) Draught: 8ft 6in-2ft 1in (2.6m-0.54m) Displacement: 13 tonnes Price: from €740,000 Contact: Seawind

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the foremost international magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have practical features to help you plan and prepare to realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge month by month with a subscription delivered to your door – and at a discount to the cover price. S ee our latest offers now.

Your source for the latest news on yachts, boats and more. Read through our articles to find out how to compare boats and find the right fit for you!

[Updated] The fastest cruising catamarans of 2020

Jun 26, 2020

less than a min

[Updated] The fastest cruising catamarans of 2020

Catamarans are some of the most interesting boats to roam the oceans. They are not only considered great looking vessels with plenty of space for utmost comfort, but also fast boats that you can use in races. Performance catamarans are categorized as multihulls and offer unique design features in addition to unparalleled speed.

Several lists have been compiled to categorize the best catamarans every year. Here are some of the fastest cruising catamarans of 2020 :

Outremer Catamarans have made a name for themselves for being fast as well as fun. With the Outremer 45 as a wonderful representative, these catamarans are characterized by narrow bows and large rigs. The Outremer 45 features a smart design from Barreau-Neuman, constructed in the Outremer yard in the South of France. It is built in carbon, glass, vinylester and divinycell in order to be durable and strong. This boat can reach a maximum speed of 15 knots, with a comfortable sailing speed at 9-10 knots.
The Privilege Signature 510 is another fast cruising catamaran, recently acquired by the German Hanse Group. It is an elegant and sportive design with an arched coach roof. It features a galley, a living area, a carbon mast, and a very appealing exterior. This catamaran costs 995,000 euros.
The Marsaudon Composites ORC50 also makes this list. What is unique about these vessels is that they can be used for racing as well as cruising. Designed by Christophe Barreau, this boat features a sporty look with an angular coachroof, large inverted bows, a powerful rotating carbon mast, and a high freeboard. In addition, the ORC50 is a lightweight boat that allows it to gain speed quite easily.
Next in line are the Fountaine Pajot yachts. These boats present a good balance between comfort and performance, which has been what boat owners and mariners have been looking for lately. Most of their boats are able to sail at 9-10 knots with less resistance, while still maintaining a smooth voyage for the crew. Some of the fastest cruisers from Fountaine Pajot include Astréa 42 and Elba 45 .
Last but not least, the Gunboat 68 is a lightweight boat that is suitable for many sailing conditions. This multihull sailboat has high-aspect straight daggerboards, strong bows that manage to cut through waves, and retractable rudders. It also features different layouts that can house 4, 5, or even 6 cabins. The interior of the boat is a pure reflection of the external shape of the hull. All in all, this is an ergonomic design that aims to be flexible and easy to use by anyone on board. This catamaran costs 5.5 million euros.

These are the top five fastest cruising catamarans of 2020 according to us . Other impressive cruising multihulls include the Dolphin 42, Privilege 435, Fountaine Pajot Belize 43, Nautitech 44, Lagoon 440, Voyage 44, Outremer 45, Prout 45, and Leopard 45. Explore their features and more catamaran characteristics, keeping also a full record and management of your boating life with TheBoatAPP .

You might like these too

Electric and Hybrid Boats – The Future of Sailing lg ...

Aug 23, 2022

Boat navigation light types and functions lg ...

How Long does it Take to Sail Around the World lg ...

Oct 04, 2021

What are some Fun Things to Bring on a Boat lg ...

Oct 01, 2021

The Proper Term for the Forward End of a Boat lg ...

Sep 30, 2021

Regular Boat Maintenance Tasks You Should Always Do lg ...

Sep 17, 2021

Skater Powerboats

Racing Pedigree

Founded in 1974

Flexible Design and Power

Fully Custom

World Leaders in Design

Welcome to skater powerboats.

Those who crave tear-duct draining, cheek-smearing velocity on the water know there is only only one king: Skater! When it comes to performance, the automobile world has Ferrari and Lamborghini, while motorcyclists long to ride a Ducati or BMW.

The Number One builder of high-performance catamarans in the world has been in business for 50 years.

Skater is the standard by which all other high-performance boat manufacturers are compared. The sleekest in design, the fastest, and the most sought-after Skater is the Bugatti of the water.

Founded and led by Peter Hledin in 1974, Skater prides itself on being at the leading edge of technology. The Skater, Michigan-based company that covers 95,000 square feet was the first to perfect the use of vacuum-bagging technology, S-glass, kevlar, carbon fiber, epoxy resins and other construction techniques in the high performance industry and we use those construction techniques on every boat we build.

Skater does not build ‘off-the-line’ boats. From the interior to the paint to the power package and everything in between, every catamaran is fully customizable to meet each client’s needs. From subtle to spectacular in design but always stunning in performance, Skater excels above the rest.

Handling Like No Other

Every Skater has world-renown on-rails handling and incredible responsiveness

The Standard Bearer in the Offshore World

Even though others have tried to replicate the Skater hull countless times, we’re still the industry leader in all-around performance and speed

No Duplicates

Like human DNA, no two Skaters are the same. Each one is built to the precise standards and expectations of our clients

How Fast Do Catamarans Go?

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

‍ Catamarans are known for their speed, and some vessels are fast enough to break world sailing speed records.

Catamarans can go between 15 and 30 knots, with the fastest achieving speeds well in excess of 60 knots. Sailing catamarans are sometimes twice as fast as monohulls and cut through the water with greater efficiency.

In this article, we’ll cover how fast catamarans can go based on factors such as size, sail area, and design category. Additionally, we’ll compare catamaran speeds to monohulls and trimarans and cover the reasons why multi-hull sailboats blow monohulls out of the water.

We sourced the information used in this article from sailing guides and hull speed calculations. Additionally, we sourced information directly from the manufacturers of common catamarans.

Table of contents

‍ Catamaran Speed by Type

Catamaran design can be split into different categories. After all, different vessels are designed for different tasks, as speed isn’t always the most important design consideration.

The fastest type of catamaran is the ultralight racing catamaran. These vessels have extremely narrow hulls and a remarkable planing ability. They’re designed to pierce waves and often achieve speeds in excess of 45 knots or greater, depending on conditions.

The second fastest catamaran variety is the sport catamaran. Sport catamarans often include a fairly good level of creature comforts in the cabin. They’re technically hybrid designs, because they are envisioned as a combination between a racer and a cruiser. Sport catamarans can achieve 30 knots or greater.

Cruising catamarans are designed primarily for safety and comfort. They’re often used for long offshore passages, where speed is important, but comfort is king. Despite their accommodations, cruising catamarans can still achieve a respectable 15 to 20 knots of speed—sometimes 50% faster than similarly-equipped monohulls.

Why are Catamarans So Fast?

Catamarans are remarkable vessels that can achieve amazing speeds. As a result of their unconventional design, typical calculations for hull speed (such as those used for monohulls) don’t always apply.

But what makes catamarans so much faster than equivalent monohulls? The first and most obvious speedy design element are the hulls themselves.

Catamarans don’t have a deep keel or a centerboard. This is because the second hull acts as a stabilizing device, and it helps the vessel track straight. The lack of a keel reduces weight (and equally important). It also reduces drag.

Additionally, catamarans behave in strange ways while underway. The hulls have a tendency to rise out of the water further the faster they go. This further reduces drag and makes it easier for the vessel’s speed to climb once it starts to move.

One additional characteristic is how the vessel’s sails point relative to the wind. Catamarans keep their sails perpendicular to the wind, which allows them to harness energy more efficiently. This is because, at a perpendicular angle, less wind energy is lost by spillage over the edge of the sails.

Are Catamarans Faster than Monohulls?

Yes, catamarans are typically faster than monohulls. They’re also a lot more stable, as their spaced-out hulls provide better motion comfort in rough seas. Catamaran hulls are narrower than monohulls, which also reduces drag and increases speed.

Catamaran vs. Monohull Speeds

We know that catamarans are faster than monohulls in most situations. But how much faster are they? Here’s a table of hull speeds for monohulls, which is a useful reference when comparing speed. Hull speed isn’t the absolute fastest that a boat can go, but it’s a good practical estimate for understanding the hydrodynamic limitations of single-hull designs.

Hull speed calculations for catamarans are more complicated. This is because catamarans have a greater length-to-beam ratio. And due to their narrow hulls and open center, they aren’t affected by the same hydrodynamic drag forces that monohulls are limited by.

For example, a 55-foot monohull sailboat with a waterline length has a hull speed of 9.4 knots or 10.9 mph. Its actual speed could exceed that in the right conditions, but rarely by more than a few knots.

Compare that to an efficient 51-foot catamaran, which can easily achieve speeds in excess of 20 knots in reasonable winds. That’s more than double the hull speed of a monohull with a similar waterline length and proves that catamarans operate under a completely different set of rules.

Wave Piercing

One aspect of catamaran design that makes them superior speeders is their ability to pierce waves. Specially designed catamarans have minimal buoyancy at the bow, which allows them to slice through waves instead of going over them.

This increases the speed at which catamarans can cover the distance. Think about it—a boat going over a wave has to use more energy to reach the same destination, as the height of the wave almost makes the distance further.

It’s like walking over a hill or on flat ground—you’ll take more steps walking up and down the hill than in a straight flat line. Wave piercing catamarans enjoy better stability, and they ‘take the flat road’ to a greater extent than monohulls.

Do Catamarans Plane?

Planing is when a boat’s hull rises out of the water due to hydrodynamic lift. This increases speed and efficiency, as there’s less drag but sufficient contact for stability. It also reduces rolling, as the bow only contacts the taller portions of the waves.

Catamarans have planing characteristics, but they generally don’t plane as dramatically as powerboats. This is still worth noting, as catamarans are specifically designed to use the phenomenon of hydrodynamic lift to gain speed and efficiency.

You’ll visibly notice a catamaran’s hull rising out of the water as it increases in speed. Compare that to a displacement monohull design (such as a classical cruising sailboat with a deep keel), which won’t rise out of the water in any significant way.

Are Catamarans Faster than Trimarans?

A trimaran is a catamaran with an additional hull in the center. Trimarans are usually less common than catamarans, but they have some of the same design benefits as other multi-hull sailboats.

At first glance, it would seem logical that trimarans are slower than catamarans. After all, they have an extra hull in the center, which likely increases weight and drag. However, there are more important factors at play here.

Trimarans are almost universally faster than catamarans. This has to do with weight distribution. Trimarans center their weight over the middle hull, using the outer hulls primarily for stability. This allows them to reap the benefits of a catamaran while increasing the efficiency of the wind power it captures.

Fastest Catamarans

Catamarans are popular for racing. There are several world records held by catamarans and numerous production boats with especially impressive speed-to-size ratios. Here are a few of the fastest racing and production catamarans ever built.

Fastest Sailboat Ever—Vestas Sailrocket 2

The Vestas Sailrocket is a specialized racing boat designed only for speed. This incredible vessel is actually the fastest sailboat ever built—and no wonder it’s a catamaran. A monohull simply can’t achieve record-breaking speeds when put head-to-head with a lightweight multi-hull.

The vessel, which earned the world sailboat speed record in 2012, has a modest 150 to 235 square feet of sail. Nonetheless, it managed to achieve a remarkable top speed of 65.45 knots in only 25 knots of wind. That’s about 72 miles per hour—in a sailboat.

Soon, a team of Swiss engineers will release their own version designed to beat the 65-knot speed record. Their vessel, which is a hydrofoil, will attempt to hit an incredible target speed of about 80 knots.

Outremer Catamarans

But what about production catamarans? How do they stack up, and how fast can they go? French boat builder Outremer Catamarans builds some of the fastest production catamarans ever built. These are not specialty racing boats—in fact, they’re average-sized cruising catamarans.

Let’s use the larger Outremer 51 as an example. This high-end cruising cat is known for its almost outrageous speed capabilities. In ideal conditions, owners of the Outremer 51 have reported speeds exceeding 20 knots for extended periods.

That’s a production catamaran with speeds that rival 20th-century warships. With such a fast boat, the world’s oceans start to appear a lot smaller. Plus, the genius design of the Outremer 51 allows it to be crewed by just two people.

But how do Outremer catamarans achieve such high speeds? The secret is in precise engineering and hull design, along with a sail plan that’s perfectly catered to the vessel. The hulls are sleek and narrow and designed to cut through the water with minimal drag.

From the bow, the Outremer 51 hulls look paper-thin. They increase in width gradually, which eliminates areas of sudden drag. These narrow hulls evenly distribute the vessel’s 21,825-lb displacement. Its low-buoyancy bows reduce drag and blast through waves instead of riding over them.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

by this author

Learn About Sailboats

Most Recent

What Does "Sailing By The Lee" Mean?

October 3, 2023

The Best Sailing Schools And Programs: Reviews & Ratings

September 26, 2023

Important Legal Info

Lifeofsailing.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

Affordable Sailboats You Can Build at Home

September 13, 2023

Best Small Sailboat Ornaments

September 12, 2023

Discover the Magic of Hydrofoil Sailboats

December 11, 2023

Best Liveaboard Catamaran Sailboats

December 28, 2023

Can a Novice Sail Around the World?

Elizabeth O'Malley

June 15, 2022

Best Electric Outboard Motors | Life of Sailing

4 Best Electric Outboard Motors

How Long Did It Take The Vikings To Sail To England?

10 Best Sailboat Brands | Life of Sailing

10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

December 20, 2023

7 Best Places To Liveaboard A Sailboat

Get the best sailing content.

A Guide to High Performance Boats

If you have the need for speed, then you can’t beat the power of the “go-fast” boat. These high-performance vessels are the “race cars” of the oceans, allowing for incredibly high speeds on the water that are often triple the speed of the average speedboat with an outboard motor.

High-performance boats are available in many styles, from recreational models to professional racing boats. Getting out onto the open water and dropping the throttle to open the engines is a thrilling experience as they roar to life and surge the vessel forward.

Once you experience the adrenaline rush of speed, you’ll never go back – it’s a truly life-changing experience, and you’ll find it somewhat addicting to get out on the water with your new go-fast boat.

These models are ideal for taking distance trips between islands, cruising the coastline, or even entering professional or amateur racing competitions. With so many models, styles, engines, and accessories to choose from for your boat, you get a customizable setup that suits your needs.

This post unpacks everything you need to know about high-performance boats.

What Is a High-Performance Boat?

The high-performance boat model comes with several designs to suit your boating experience. When assessing high-performance models, you have two options for hulls.

The V-Bottom (Mono-Hull Design)

The first option is the deep V-hull. You’ll find these hulls on the fastest models, like “cigarette boats.” The deep single-hull allows for exceptional stability on the water at high speeds, ensuring you get a clean cut through the roughest waters without compromising the handling or maneuverability of the watercraft.

The Catamaran (Dual-Hull Design)

These boats have two hulls, similar to a pontoon boat but designed for performance. The double catamaran hull allows for exceptional stability at high speeds on the water, giving you more control and stability than the V-hull. It’s for this reason that professional racing watercraft use this hull configuration.

Center Consoles and Go-Fast Catamarans

The most popular version of the go-fast boat is the “center console” design. This driver configuration places the driver position in the center of the boat, with the seating being closer towards the aft of the watercraft.

You have options for open or closed cockpits, lounge chairs, and booster seats, and some models may feature a v-berth in the bow allowing for sleeping accommodations or a small seating arrangement. These boats feature single or twin motor setups capable of reaching speeds of 60 to 85-mph.

Go-Fast Catamarans

The catamaran go-fast models range in length from 28 to 52-feet, and the longer the boat, the better the performance and speed. Most models feature twin motor setups offering you up to 1,750-HP, with top speeds of up to 180-mph, thanks to the exceptional stability provided by the catamaran hull system.

Go-fast catamarans often include the use of carbon fiber materials around the boat, decreasing weight while increasing performance and handling. The material also adds exceptional strength and stability to the hulls, preventing hull distortion under high-speed conditions.

The sports catamaran is gaining in popularity in the recreational go-fast market. These models vary between 28 to 38-feet in length, with outboard motors capable of reaching up to 130-mph on open, calm waters.

Engines for High-Performance Boats

Most v-hull models feature inboard stern-drive engines, and there are a few models with outboards. All boats come with exceptionally high power outputs, with some models relying on twin, triple, or quad engine setups, depending on the length and weight of the boat.

High-Performance Boat Lengths

High-performance boats come in a range of sizes and power outputs to suit your activities on the water. Most models range between 20 to 50-feet in length. The longer the boat, the more stability it has on the water, giving you more control at high speed.

Since some of these models can reach speeds of up to 150-mph on flat calm waters, they need the length to ensure the boat doesn’t flip when it catches an updraft on the surface of the water.

Benefits of High-Performance Boats

High-performance boats offer you several advantages for sports recreational and professional racing. If you love going fast on the water or want to give it a try, these boats come with the following benefits for your boating experience.

Speed and Handling

Typically, any boat capable of speeds over 70-mph on the waterfall into the category of high-performance models. With the advances in engine technology over the last few decades, you have boats capable of hitting speeds of anywhere from 120 to 180-mph.

The handling of a high-performance boat isn’t as good as a cabin cruiser or bowrider. The long length gives you a wider turning circle that’s not ideal for watersports. The design of the high-performance boat means that it’s a “point-and-shoot” model designed for use in a straight line.

When you consider the high speeds involved in operating these watercraft, the go-fast will suit captains with boating experience under their belt.

If you’re planning on making a go-fast your first boat, make sure you take an instructional course to show you how to handle the power and performance of the vessel before taking to the water yourself.

Dynamic Cruising

The go-fast offers a powerful performance that’s ideal for cruising at high speeds. Hit the throttle and race between islands in the Caribbean, or take a day trip up the coastline.

Powerful Motors

The go-fast comes with performance engines designed for speed and power. They are like the Ferrari’s of the waterworld, offering exceptional performance that you can’t find with any other model. Sports catamaran models in 28 to 36-foot lengths are popular, featuring twin Mercury Racing Verado 400R outboard motors that rip through the water at high speed.

The Mercury Marine Verado 350 outboard offers you a better warranty and a better choice for your sports cat model. The 400R features a standard SportMaster gearcase in the engine, making it unsuitable for use in sports cars.

Two-stroke motors are on the way out, with most sports models shifting to 4-stroke engines for improved fuel efficiency and smoother power curves when accelerating. They also reduce noise and emissions, making them the suitable choice for your high-performance boat.

Multiple Sizing Options

The go-fast boats come in a range of lengths to suit your needs and experience. Typically, the recreational “beginner” high-performance boats come in sizes from 28 to 36-feet, with professional models extending anywhere up to 50-feet, with a few catamaran models being longer.

Suitable for Offshore Use

These boats offer excellent performance, and they are suitable for offshore use. Professional racing models allow for an extended range for the longest races.

Disadvantages of High-Performance Boats

Expensive price tags.

The high-performance boat can set you back a considerable chunk of change. Most models start at $100,000, even for entry-level sports cats. Depending on the boat design, manufacturing brand, Customization options, and length, you could end up paying more than a million dollars for a pro racing boat.

Expensive to Maintain and Dock

The high-performance boat is like owning a Porsche. Sure, it’s great driving it, but you’ll choke when you see the servicing bill. The high-capacity motors and stern configurations on most models mean they have higher servicing costs. You’ll also need to consider that these models are unsuitable for trailering, so you’ll need a dedicated slot at the marina, adding to your ownership and running costs.

Large Engines and More Fuel Consumption

Since these boats have the largest motors and several engines in their configuration, you’ll be spending more money on fuel. Think about it like a fancy sports car; you get way less economy with a Lamborghini than you do with a Toyota Camry.

Limited Seating

Your smaller high-performance boats offer you more passenger capacity than the larger racing models. These boats are not known for their passenger capability – they focus on performance. More people on the boat adds to the overall weight, reducing the speed and maneuverability of the boat.

Limited Storage

While larger models may offer v-berths and under-seat storage, they are not the best choice if you’re looking for ample storage space. You might get a built-in cooler and a small cuddy, but don’t expect to pack your fishing and dive gear into this boat.

Not the Best Choice for Fishing or Watersports

These boats don’t offer crossover capability for watersports and fishing. While you can fish from them, that is not the design intention for these models. They are for speed and racing, not sports and fishing.

Most Models are Not Trailerable

The length and weight of these boats mean most of the models over 40-feet are not trailerable. You’ll need to store them in a slip at the marina.

Top High-Performance Boat Brands and Models

There are dozens of manufacturing brands and hundreds of high-performance boat models. Here are our top choices for some of the best go-fast boats available.

Fountain 34 Thundercat

The Fountain 34 Thundercat is an incredibly fast boat for its size, offering plenty of performance out on the open water.

This 34-foot model offers max speeds of up to 130-mph, featuring a 10′ 2″ beam and enough passenger capacity for four to six people. It’s a great choice for an entry-level boat into the world of go-fast vessels.

You get twin outboard motors, with plenty of performance, and under-seat storage, with a center console driver configuration for stability and control over the boat at speed. It’s a great choice for your first high-performance boat, and it comes with an affordable price tag compared to other go-fast models offering the same level of accessories, design quality, and engine performance.

Stealth Yachts 540 FLY

The Stealth Yachts 540 Fly looks like it belongs in a Navy stealth boat program, with flat sides and boxy looks. It’s an incredibly fast boat for its size, offering plenty of performance out on the open water. This 34-foot model offers max speeds of up to 130-mph, featuring an 18-foot beam and multi-hull setup.

This model has plenty of passenger capacity offering you bow and aft seating, two captain’s chairs, and a center console configuration. It’s a visually impressive boat offering you excellent perf5romance from its in-stern engine setup, reaching speeds of 50-knots thanks to the 800hp MAN Common Rail diesel engines and the Integrated Surface Drives (ISD).

The 70-foot monohull design gives you plenty of stability at high speed, and there are three staterooms, a 12-person flybridge, spacious side decks, and a central walk-through linking the aft and bow of the boat.

Donzi 38ZRC

This boat is long and narrow, designed for straight-line speed, reducing drag from the hull on the water. The 38-foot length of the boat makes it a mid-range model, capable of speeds up to 120-mph on open water.

You get a lightweight design with carbon fiber options and powerful 450-HP motors, giving you plenty of acceleration and top-end speed for racing. It’s not a professional model, but it offers the recreational driver the time of their life on the water.

Mercedes AMG Cigarette Racing Boat

If you drive a Mercedes on land, why not own one for the water? This AMG series “cigarette boat” from Mercedes gives you everything you would expect from the AMG brand, including six powerful high-performance AMG Mercedes motors giving it a top-end of 180-mph.

The 59-foot length of the boat provides exceptional stability at speed, cutting through the water with its monohull design and generous use of carbon fiber. It’s a real racing boat and suitable for a professional competition.

Wrapping Up

The world of high-performance boating isn’t for the faint of heart. However, if you have the need for speed, then you can’t go wrong with the go-fast model. Choose between double or single hull configurations, a wide variety of build materials, including carbon fiber, and your choice of engine configuration and seating arrangements.

However, due to the high price tags of these models, make sure you have a budget in mind when selecting your boat. It’s easy to add 20% to 40% to the purchase price when customizing your boat.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

A Complete Guide to Micro Skiffs: All You Need to Know!

A complete guide to narrow boats: all you need to know, a guide to aluminum fishing boats.

Comments are closed.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

32' DCB F32 Open Bow

21' Eliminator Daytona

28' Eliminator Fundeck

31' Eliminator 31 XO Speedster

25' 1992 2017 Talon T25

39' MTI 390X Carbon

36' Eliminator Speedster

32' Ocean Express 32 Tournament CC

28' Vector V28

29' World Cat 295DC

18' Talon 18

26' Nordic deck boats

36' Nordic Hurricane

27' Eliminator Daytona 27ICC

28' Doug Wright Designed Fat Cat DW28

35' DCB M35

20' Sanger Alley Cat

28' Howard 288 Sportdeck

How Fast Do Catamarans Go? 5 Examples (With Pictures)

A catamaran is generally more balanced on the water and can be faster than a multi-hull vessel.

Unless you compare them to foiling monohulls like the new America’s Cup boats that sail at over 50 knots, they are not recreational vessels.

In this article, we will look at how fast each type of catamaran will go.

Table of Contents

Here are the numbers before we dive into the details:

Average Speed For Sailing Catamarans

Catamarans can vary in size from 14 ft to over 100 ft. Catamarans can come in a wide variety of design types.

Sailing Catamarans have been attempting to make advancements over their mono-hulled counterparts.

These advancements include:

Foils that assist with lifting the vessel out of the water.
Stability advancements.
Racers that can maintain their speed while out in the ocean.

3 Different Types of Sailing Catamarans:

1) sport catamarans.

One type of sailing catamaran is a sport catamaran, which is otherwise known as recreational. These are typically supposed to have a small crew and launch and land on beaches.

Sport catamarans do not normally have living quarters and are ideal for day trips. Resorts or other rental services often use these.

These can also be used for racing.

Sport vessels have been known to travel over 30 knots but can speed over 40 knots in the proper conditions.

2) Cruising Catamarans

Another type of sailing catamaran is a cruising catamaran. These often come with complete living accommodations, so they sacrifice speed over their sportier counterparts.

They can average between 9 and 10 knots, depending on the conditions. The top speed is typically around 15 knots.

It would be best if you were careful with catamarans that have living quarters. The more you weigh it down, the less speed you will have.

3) Racing Catamarans

The final type of sailing catamaran is an ocean racing catamaran.

These boats are large and can reach over 100 feet in length.

The top speed of this type of catamaran is around 45 knots.

Because of the prize money for entering these in races, much research goes into their advancement.

Average Speed Of Power Catamarans

Catamarans with power motors fill a different type of boating category.

These are commonly used when speed and smoothness are favored over space or capacity.

Because of their stability, catamarans are good vessels for combating seasickness as well as transportation. We have a separate article here with all you should know about catamarans and (how to overcome) seasickness .

On a commercial level, these can be used for ferries for both people and vehicles. They are used for short term travel, often to or from islands.

Like sailing catamarans, there are a few types of power catamarans.

1) Power Cruising Catamarans

Similar to sailing cruising catamarans, they also have power cruising catamarans. These also have living quarters and are stable while out on the water. The speed of these vessels highly depends on the motors equipped and the size of the boat itself.

Like passenger transport or ferries, catamarans have a high speed of about 40 to 70 miles per hour.

These are made to travel at great speeds to allow their commuters the shortest possible ride to their destination.

The military also utilizes power catamarans. They use power catamarans to transport military cargo. These ships are ideal because of their speed, holding capacity, and ability to venture into shallow ports.

2) Swath Catamarans

They also have small-waterplane-area twin-hull vessels. These are called SWATHs.

These differ from the average catamaran because they also have submarine-like hulls that stay completely under the water.

Due to the hulls being submerged, they are not normally affected by waves. These are used most often in the ocean as research vessels. They can also be used for certain types of yachts. Because of their stability, they are good vessels for furniture that will not require as much securing.

These often travel between 20 and 30 knots.

Some catamarans are designed for wave piercing. These are made to pierce through waves rather than sail over them, causing them to be faster. These can be used as passenger ferries, yachts, and military vessels as well.

3) Whitewater Catamarans

There are also recreational catamarans made for whitewater travel. These are sometimes called “cata-rafts.”

They are made using two inflatable hulls connected with a scaffold. These are lightweight and perfect for whitewater sports.

They are even able to be packed away in a backpack. They can take up to 20 minutes to assemble, including inflation.

They have high speeds on white water rivers and can be most compared to a canoe, kayak, whitewater raft, or other white water vessels.

Performance Characteristics Of Catamarans

Catamarans require four times the power to double their speed. A mono-hull vessel, however, would require eight times the power to double their speed.

This is because a Catamaran has less resistance in the water.

This is also good for conserving and using less energy.

Catamarans are also more stable in the water. This stability is effective at resisting heeling or capsizing. A multi-hull vessel would require four times the force to capsize as a similar-sized mono-hull vessel.

The general sailing in a catamaran is smoother and allows for activities that are not always possible on a mono-hull sailboat.

Are Catamarans Faster than Mono-Hull Vessels?

Because catamarans have less water resistance, they are generally faster than mono-hull vessels.

This is because their hulls are smaller, which means they have a smaller bow wave to fight.

A bow wave is a wave created by the displacement of water by the bow of a ship. After a certain speed, a boat has to start hauling itself over its own bow wave.

The larger hull a ship has, the larger its bow wave will be and the more power required to fight it.

Catamarans have two small and narrow hulls, so they do not have much of an issue with their bow wave. This is one reason they are usually faster than a similar-sized mono-hull vessel.

Catamarans can be between 20-30 percent faster than their monohull counterparts.

Issues with catamarans over mono-hulls are that they can take more time to turn.

How Is The Speed Measured?

Boats commonly measure speed using GPS tracking devices to measure distance traveled. Speed while sailing is measured in knots. A knot is one nautical mile per hour, which equals about 1.15 miles per hour.

How Fast Are Catamarans Compared To Other Boat Types?

Sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots.
Pontoon boats average about 20 mph.
A powerboat cruiser can average anywhere between 30 and 50 mph.
Cigarette boats can even reach close to 90 mph in the proper conditions.
Sailboats average between 6 and 12 mph depending on wind conditions. This includes mono-hull between 6 to 8 mph and catamarans and trimarans between 9 and 10mph

Two different factors can determine the speed of sailing ships:

1) The hull type as listed above.

Different hulls rest in the water more or less than other types. The less of the hull that is underwater, the faster it can go.

This is because the less of the hull in the water, the less drag created while sailing.

2) The length of the boat

The longer the boat, the faster it can go. Every boat has a maximum hull speed that cannot be exceeded unless the boat can plane on the water’s surface or be lifted on hydrofoils. For most boats, the longer the boat, the higher the maximum hull speed is.

Speed Vs. Comfort Considerations For Catamarans

If you are looking for a catamaran, you have a lot of options.

You can choose to prioritize speed or comfort.

After deciding to purchase a catamaran, the type of catamaran you should look at depends on where and what you are using it for.

You will want to make sure that you look at what type of water you will be traveling in, how many people you are traveling with on average, and what type of speed you hope to achieve.

One thing you will want to keep in mind before the purchase of a catamaran is storage. If you intend to store your boat in a marina, you are often charged for two slips due to the beam, or width, of a catamaran versus the standard mono-hull vessel.

Catamarans can be beneficial for those who get seasick because they offer a steadier ride and the ability to have more open air space. Because the living quarters are not inside the hull and under the water’s surface, you have more windows and visibility.

Both sailing and power catamarans are viable options. Also, sailing catamarans can come with back-up power engines for low winds or situations such as docking in a marina.

Catamarans that have twin engines can offer more control and precision than those on a mono-hull vessel. This is good for tight and busy areas or navigating marinas.

Overall, there are plenty of options for you, and they offer many benefits over their mono-hull counterparts.

Click to share...

Cruising Catamaran Speed! With Examples and Explanation

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site.

One of the most popular cruising vessels is cruising catamarans. Cruising catamarans are popular thanks to their stability and space, but some sailors have concerns about cruising catamarans’ speed. So, how fast are cruising catamarans?

Sailing cruising catamarans can travel at an average of 9-15 knots and max out around 35 kts. Power Cruising catamarans have a maximum speed of 70 knots but averages around 20-25 kts. How fast a catamaran can go also depends on the load it is carrying, its structural design, and its engine power.

This article explores details of what affects a cruising catamaran’s speed. It also considers how fast sailing and power cruising catamarans can go, along with some of the most rapid cruising catamaran models available today.

How Is a Cruising Catamaran’s Speed Measured?

To better understand a cruising catamaran’s speed, it is essential to consider how a boat’s speed is measured. Boat speed is measured in knots , which is one nautical mile per hour, (or 1.15 mph). One nautical mile is approximately 1.15 land miles.

The speed of a catamaran is calculated by a GPS tracker that records the distance sailed every hour.

How Fast Are Sailing Cruising Catamarans?

The wind powers sailing cruising catamarans – their speed depends on the speed of the wind. If there is a lot of wind, more wind equals higher a faster boat. However, if there is little to no wind, the catamaran won’t move very fast or very far.

At about 14-16 knots of wind speed, sailing catamarans can average 9-12 knots . Some high-end sailing catamarans can be even faster. For instance, the Gunboat 62 Tribe can sail up to 36.6 knots when the wind is between 35-45 knots.

How Fast Are Power Cruising Catamarans?

Unlike sailing catamarans, power catamarans do not rely on the wind to move. Instead, they are powered by fuel (usually diesel). This means that they can travel faster than sailing catamarans and that their speed is more reliable.

Under light loads the Power catamarans can travel at between 20-25 knots. When the load is higher, power catamarans speed drops to 15-20 knots.

Some high-end catamarans, such as the Freeman 47, can reach up to 70 knots .

What Affects the Speed of a Cruising Catamaran?

There are several features of a cruising catamaran that impact its speed. These include:

The type of hull. The less the hull is submerged into the water, the faster the catamaran will go. When they are submerged, hulls create drag which slows the velocity of the boat.
The beam/length ratio. When a catamaran has a higher surface area (stable base), it can better withstand stronger winds, therefore allowing it utilize more of the wind before needing to reduce sail area.
The material used to construct and reinforce the vessel. When areas of the catamaran are filled with foam, it decreases the catamaran’s weight while ensuring that stability is maintained. As a result, the catamaran has a lighter weight, making it faster.
The type of propellers. Propellers are an essential part of a vessel as they act as brakes, which are necessary to slow down and stop a boat. However, many modern cruising catamarans have folding propellers that reduce the boat’s water resistance when the engine is turned off. As a result, the catamaran can travel faster under sail.
The engines. The higher the horsepower of the catamaran’s engine, the faster it can go. Most newer catamarans have two engines which makes them faster than the older, one-engined counterparts.
The load of the catamaran. Each catamaran has a load-carrying capacity. If the amount of weight the catamaran has onboard exceeds this capacity, it will “sit” lower in the water and significantly slow down the catamaran’s speed.
The sail trim and reef. When sail area is reduced (called reefing), the catamaran slows down (in most situations). Properly trimming the sails will also enhance performance.

In addition, catamarans will be faster downwind . Going downwind removes the headwind and will many times allow you to surf with the waves.

Why Should You Look for a Faster Cruising Catamaran?

The old adage is that “slow and steady” wins the race. However, when it comes to cruising catamarans, many sailors believe the faster, the better. Faster catamarans are preferred because they:

Allow the crew to quickly move the catamaran out of bad weather conditions, protect the vessel and passengers on board.
Allow the captain to more predictably calculate Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA).
A shorter time spent in bad patches of sea making big ocean crossings safer and more enjoyable.

What Are the Fastest Cruising Catamaran Models?

Some catamarans have been recognized and won awards for their speed. Some of these models are explored below.

Freeman 47 (Power)

Freeman catamarans are symmetrical catamarans that have especially been designed to carry a heavy load without sacrificing speed. Released in 2020, the Freeman 47 has quad 450R Mercury outboards that allow it to travel at 70 knots.

In addition to the outboards, many features of the Freeman 47 allow it to move faster. It has a fuel capacity of 1000 gallons (3785 liters) and a maximum power of 1800 HP.

If you’re interested in purchasing or finding out more about the Freeman 47, register your interest on Freemanboatworks.com .

Glider SS18 (Power)

The Glider SS18 is a power catamaran that was launched in 2017, after eight years of development. It is powered by 300 BHP supercharged engines that allow it to travel for up to 50 knots. It also has a built-in Stability Control System (SCS), ensuring that the catamaran remains stable and comfortable, even when traveling at top speed.

To buy or get a quotation for the Glider SS18, visit glideryachts.com .

ICE Cat 61 (Sail)

The Ice Cat 61 is a luxury catamaran. At 61 feet (18.60 meters) long, it is a large catamaran that has been designed with both speed and stability in mind. While its average cruising speed is 12 knots, it can achieve up to 25 knots.

The ICE Cat 61 has been designed with carbon and glass fiber – materials that allow the boat to be lighter. It has two engines with 55 HP each and a fuel capacity of 206 gallons (780 liters).

If you’re interested in an ICE Cat 61, you can learn more at iceyachts.it .

Gunboat 68 (Sail)

At 68 feet (20.8 meters) long, the Gunboat 68 makes for an impressive sight on the open ocean. It averages 20 knots but can reach 30 knots depending on the amount of wind power.

The Gunboat 68 has been designed by VPLP, also known as the ‘ fastest naval architects in the world .’ It has been designed with large sails, long daggerboards, and material that has lighter weight. This vessel also has retractable rudders, which reduce the boat’s drag.

To find out more about the Gunboat 68 or register interest in purchasing one, visit Gunboat.com .

Conclusion

A catamaran’s speed depends on its design, its load, its type, and on a variety of other factors. However, on average, most sailing catamarans can achieve between 9-15 knots, while power catamarans can, on average, achieve between 20-25 knots. If you are looking to splurge for the best on the market, some power catamarans can reach 50-70 knots.

If you’re looking to buy a cruising catamaran, make sure you use the information you have gained to assess the speed of the catamaran you are considering. A faster catamaran can make for safer and more exciting sailing. Ultimately, it will make your cruising experience more enjoyable and satisfying.

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

15 Fastest Boats In The World | 2023 Edition

What are the world’s fastest boats? Keeping track of the world’s fastest cars is easier; when it comes to boats, things get a little more tricky. Various vessels travel on the water, varying in size, shape, and how they move. Humans have been concerned with speed since the invention of the wheel.

Also, people’s need for speed and excitement has led to the creation of speed boats that can go so fast that they almost sear the waterbed. The twenty-first century has created some of the world’s fastest boats. Most modern speed boats can reach a speed of up to 100 miles per hour, with some exceeding 170 miles per hour. Continue reading the article to learn about the 15 fastest boats in the world as of 2023. With further ado, let’s begin.

Lamborghini 63 – 69 MPH

The yacht “Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63” is more than just an exercise in style and design; she also represents cutting-edge luxury speed boats. The Lamborghini 63 yacht’s advertised top speed is 60 knots, which equates to an impressive 69 miles per hour .

In the world of yachts, this is a fast boat. At cruising speed, it consumes about 100 gallons of fuel per hour, giving it a range of about 360 nautical miles.

Vestas Sailrocket 2 – 70 MPH

The Vestas Sailrocket 2, designed by Paul Larsen, is one of the most extraordinary and fascinating boats, setting a new world speed record of 70 mph in 2012.

The empty weight of the Vestas Sailrocket 2 is 275 kg. It measures 12.2 m long and 12.2 m wide, with a total wing area of 22 m2. The Vestas Sailrocket was made to break the B-class’s speed record for sails between 150 and 235 square feet.

HMCS Bras d’Or – 72 MPH

HMCS Bras d’Or (FHE 400) is a Canadian hydrofoil that served the military from 1968 to 1971. During sea trials in 1969, the ship exceeded 72 mph , making it the world’s fastest unarmed warship.

From 1960 to 1967, the vessel was built for the Royal Canadian Navy as part of a project to test anti-submarine warfare technology on an ocean-going hydrofoil.

Outerlimits SV-52 – 100 MPH

Outerlimits Power Boats has a large selection of high-speed power boats. The SV-50, SV-52, SL-44, SL-52, and even catamarans like the 43CAT and 48CAT are among their fastest boats. One of their quickest speedboats is the SV-52.

It was made to work well at high speeds and is known for its smooth ride and soft landings, even in rough and choppy waves. The cockpit features twin helm controls and a typical GPS chart plotter. Most models also have a half-cabin where you can store extra gear or get much-needed shade from the sun and sea.

This 52-foot-long beauty can reach over 100 mph in even the most severe conditions. It has a fuel capacity of 250 gallons and can comfortably seat up to four people.

South Bay 925CR – 114 MPH

The South Bay 925 CR is the fastest pontoon in the world. Brad Rowland’s South Bay 925 CR set a new world record with a speed of 114 mph.

It includes superior Garmin GPS navigation. Its length of 27 feet and beam of 8 feet make it ideal for someone who does not require a large speed boat.

The South Bay 925CR comes standard with a Manual Sport Arch, a 4-speaker Bluetooth stereo, and interior and exterior LED lighting. If you want to create the perfect party atmosphere, you can even use underwater LED lights.

Fountain 47 Lightning – 115 MPH

The Fountain 47 Lightning, as its name suggests, is speedy. The Fountain 47 Lightning has a top speed of 115 miles per hour . Its size is 47 feet, and it can seat up to four people. Its incredible speed is due to the twin Mercury Racing 1,075 HP engines.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 340 gallons and a Fuel Vapour Detection system. The Fountain 47 Lightning comes with a Garmin GPS, LED push-button switches on the navigation dashboard, and Vessel View instrumentation.

Cigarette Racing Team 50 AMG GTS – 135 MPH

The cigarette-shaped 50 AMG GTS is regarded as one of the world’s fastest electric speedboats. It is powered by a 2200 HP AMG electric engine, which also powers the world’s most powerful and fastest electric car, the SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive.

This supercharged electric speedboat is powered by a lithium-ion battery with 3,456 lithium-ion cells. The powerful battery pack can store power at 400 volts and provide a maximum driving current of around 6,000 amps.

This daring speedboat has two chargers with a total charging rate of 44 kW, a full charge that takes only seven hours, and a top speed of 135 mph .

The Nor-Tech 5200 Roadster – 150 MPH

The Nor-Tech 5200 Roadster is a huge boat that can accommodate up to ten people. The 5200 Roadster may reach speeds above 150 mph . The 5200 Roadster features 5400 HP engines and a 400-gallon fuel tank, making it one of the most potent boats on the water. In addition to its unrivaled speed, the Roadster is the pinnacle of luxury boating.

A comfortable sun couch, a swimming platform with a boarding ladder, and video monitors are included. The Roadster also has a cutting-edge sound system and aft-facing seats with coolers. Nor-Tech can also provide a variety of combinations to meet our engine specifications.

Mystic Powerboats C5000 Turbine – 160 MPH

Mystic Powerboats of Florida manufactured the Mystic Powerboats C5000 turbine. Powered by two 1850 HP engines, it has a total engine power of 1850 HP and can achieve 160 mph with ease. The C5000 is believed to be one of the world’s most powerful speedboats.

The C5000 is more than 51 feet long and has technology like a GPS, plotter, navigation center, and log speedometer. The radio, CD player, and cockpit speakers are a few more features that will make your trip more fun. This ultra-quick catamaran also features cockpit air conditioning.

Skater 46 Pleasure – 165 MPH

Skater 46 Pleasure is a fast and powerful boat. The Skater 46 Pleasure has two Teague Custom 1500 HP engines. The Skater has dual fuel tanks with a full capacity of 1,000 gallons. It can easily cruise at over 100 mph for long periods and is made to land smoothly in stormy weather.

The Skater 46 Pleasure is one of the fastest motorboats available today, with top speeds of nearly 165 mph. Its roomy design may accommodate up to five people. Its clever design lets you feel the thrill of speed while still being able to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Lamborghini Aventador Super Veloce – 180 MPH

Lamborghini’s Aventador Super Veloce is a 52-foot custom-built speedboat powered by a 1550-horsepower engine capable of reaching up to 180 mph . The ship’s features include custom LED lighting and carbon fibre accents.

The speedboat has a six-person cockpit with customized buttons and dials that look like car dashboards. For example, the “Race” and “Pleasure” keys switch between the boat’s top speed and easygoing pace.

Spirit Of Qatar – 244 MPH

This vessel is now the world’s fastest catamaran and ranks fifth on the list of fastest boats. The Spirit of Qatar is a catamaran capable of reaching an insanely high speed of 244 miles per hour , thanks to using a pair of Lycoming turbines that together produce 9,000 horsepower (212 knots). The Spirit of Qatar, with its 50-foot length and plenty of turbine power, is a real show-stopper.

Problem Child – 262 MPH

The Problem Child is the fastest nitro drag boat in the world. Its nickname, ironically, comes from its super-fast speed capacity. Eddie Knox’s Problem Child is the world’s fastest drag boat, powered by an 8000 HP motor.

How fast can the world’s fastest boat go? It can reach up to 262 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds. Isn’t it incredible?

The Problem Child is the ultimate water-speed machine. This speedy monster appears to fly over water and is known to leave behind a wall of water as it races through the water at speed exceeding 250 mph.

Bluebird K7 – 276 MPH

The Bluebird K7, one of the oldest and fastest hydroplanes of the twentieth century, is regarded as a speedboat pioneer. In this incredible hydroplane, Donald Campbell set records for the fastest water speeds in the 1950s and 1960s.

Between July 1955 and December 1964, he set seven-speed records. Surprisingly, the Bluebird K7 managed to reach 276 mph in 1964. Unfortunately, Campbell died in 1967 while attempting to set a speed record of 300 mph.

Between October 2000 and May 2001, the Bluebird’s wreckage was recovered. Campbell’s daughter officially presented the recovered wreckage of the Bluebird to the Ruskin Museum. The Bluebird Project is said to be conducting trials to restore the Bluebird K7 to Scottish waters.

Spirit Of Australia – 317 MPH

Would you believe Ken Warby built the Spirit of Australia in his backyard, which holds the world record for the fastest speed of 317.6 miles per hour ?

The wooden speedboat is powered by Westinghouse J34 jet engines, also used in planes and combat jets. The Spirit of Australia is also permanently displayed at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Many people have tried and failed to break Warby’s world water speed record. However, Warby built the Aussie Spirit as a successor to the Spirit of Australia.

The Bottom Line

We’ve compiled a list of the fifteen fastest boats in the world, ranked by their highest miles per hour. In boats, jet and turbojet engines are mounted on a solid hull that cuts like a razor through the water. Currently, the jet-powered Spirit of Australia holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest boat in the world, clocking in at 317.6 mph.

Of these 15 fastest boats in the world, let us know which one you liked the most.

Catamaran Vs. Speedboat (What’s the Difference)

Posted on May 30, 2022

Catamarans are fast, especially long ones. Most of them are even twice as fast as a monohull vessel that is about the same size.

Some cats operate with only sails and then some cats operate with both sail and motor. You have sports, cruising, racing cats, and more. So, is a racing cat or cats, in general, the same as speedboats?

Unlike catamarans that get a lot of assistance from the wind and have two hulls, sowed oats operate only by motors, whether inboard or outboard. Cats require a more hands-on strategy. However, they provide more stability than speed oats. There are also speedboat cats, which outclass the rival monohulls.

We’ll take a look at this and a myriad of other differences as you continue reading.

Catamaran Vs. Speedboat

The catamaran.

main characteristics of a catamaran hull

A catamaran has two hulls of the exact size that run parallel to each another. Instead of being stabilized by a ballasted keel like a monohull boat, it is a geometry-stabilized craft that relies on its broad width.

For the same length of the boat, catamarans often have a smaller hull capacity, less displacement, and a shallower draft (draught). Because of their lesser hydrodynamic resistance, two-hulled vessels frequently require less propelling power from either their sails or their engines than comparable monohulls.

Compared to a monohull, a catamaran’s wider stance on the water reduces both heeling and wave-induced motion, as well as the wakes it leaves behind.

The Speedboat

A speedboat is a vessel whose propulsion is solely derived from an engine. There are two types of motorboats: those with inboard engines and those with outboard motors put on the back, which include the engine and transmission.

The engine and transmission are located on the outside of the boat, while the propeller and gearbox are housed inside. This configuration is known as an inboard-outboard.

Why Get a Powerboat?

Powerboats are quick, exciting, and roomy all at the same time. Motorboats make it simple to get out on the water, even if you don’t know how to operate one.

With the right boat, you can go tubing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, or fishing with your family. It’s also possible to take a relaxing boat ride around the canals.

Due to the smaller amount of equipment in a sailboat, powerboats often have more deck space. To make things easier for people with large families or who want to take a large number of people out with them, you can carry out more passengers at once.

A motorboat’s galley and stateroom often have greater room. Long-distance offshore fishing expeditions benefit from the extra deck space provided by motorboats, which is why many anglers opt for them. As an added benefit, motorboats can navigate in shallower waters than sailboats because of their shallower hulls.

There is less training involved in operating a powerboat than a sailboat if you’re just getting started in boating. Sailboats require a significant amount of time and practice to become comfortable. A GPS and a boating license are all you need to get started with a motorboat.

To run a speedboat, you must rely solely on the sun’s rays for power. It’s not necessary to wait for ideal wind conditions. Getting up and going whenever you want is completely up to you. When you’re on a boat, you’re not affected by the weather or the tides, unlike when you’re out sailing.

Speedboat Cons

Even though powerboats are simpler to handle and provide more living areas, they are more costly to run. You have to rely on the motor to get about, and it can rapidly amount up to a lot of money. In addition, it consumes more fuel than a catamaran, which is far more eco-friendly.

Powerboat engines are also more pricey. You should plan to pay a lot of money if you need to fix or replace the boat’s engine. This is why it is essential to get your engine checked and maintained regularly.

In addition, the motor itself becomes loud and odorous, which some may argue diminishes the experience of sailing. It doesn’t help seasick folks, but it doesn’t help everyone else either.

Expect to spend more for a powerboat trip and have an excursion that is more centered on the water activities, rather than the pleasure of being on the waterway.

Why Get a Catamaran?

Catamaran cruises are preferred because of their size and stability. We pick the number of individuals we’d want to bring along, and then head out on the lake whenever and wherever we want. On and underneath the deck, a catamaran’s dual hulls plus extra room between them provide greater room for entertaining and relaxing.

Renting a boat is a popular way to spend a holiday , and cats are popular pets. There’s plenty of room for more things and people. Because the two hulls stabilize the boat, it will not heel like a monohull; rather, it sits generally level. Sailing is less tiring since you’re not against gravity.

Catamarans can sail in shallower waters because they use less water to glide than monohulls. Individuals onboard can enjoy greater privacy because of the ship’s two distinct hulls, which are completely independent of one another.

Cons of a Catamaran

The slamming of a low bridgedeck clearance catamaran in choppy seas upwind can be a severe problem. When you first hear this pounding, it can be a little unnerving.

Spreaders on a monohull are angled at 90 degrees to the mast, whereas spreaders on a catamaran must be swept backward . Since the backstay is present on a monohull, the intermediates can be used to create a lovely pre-bend in the mast (the pre-bend is to flatten out the mainsail and allow for better performance).

Due to its wide beam, a catamaran is more difficult to dock , whether temporarily or permanently. This, however, is rapidly transforming and will cease to be an issue shortly. Generally, dockage is billed by the length of the vessel in feet, but this is not the case in the US, where dockage is charged by the length times one and a half because of the greater beam.

Catamaran haulouts are more difficult to obtain a travel lift with a suitable beam, but monohulls have no issues whatsoever. There are fewer facilities that can haul out cats because of their wide beam.

Catamarans have a lot of windage . If you’re trying to fly in tight confines against a strong wind, this could be a problem. However, I’ve discovered that having twin engines negates this issue if the engines are strong enough for the catamaran’s size . Adding a bow thruster is becoming increasingly common on large modern catamarans as well. The docking process is a breeze.

Catamaran boarding is significantly more expensive than monohull boarding . A substantial hole in your cruising fund, or perhaps the need to delay your dream, could result from this. The supply of pre-owned monohulls, on the other hand, greatly outweighs the demand at this time.

High-Speed Catamarans vs V-bottom Speedboats

When go-fast boats first appeared, they were all the same design: a V-bottom monohull with a high deadrise and upward of three engines, based on the vessel’s length as well as beam.

Today’s go-fast boat market provides consumers with more options than ever, and practically any builder that has fast boats for sale may customize them to match particular needs.

High-performance cats are becoming increasingly popular. Catamarans are better able to exploit their horsepower than V-bottoms since they have more air under their hulls and a smaller wetted area.

The greater the surface area that is submerged, the more hydrodynamic drag is generated. As a result of the sticky nature of water, more hydrodynamic drag equals a greater demand on the engine.

Boat engines are subjected to a much harsher load cycle than automotive engines. At 50mph in second gear, imagine driving up a steep hill with a trailer. Every time you run a boat engine, it’s kind of like that.

Because of this, catamarans are the quickest and most powerful high-performance boats available. With the same amount of power, a catamaran will always be quicker than a V-hull boat of the same length. Always.

Over 150 mph is possible on modern offshore catamarans. You can get them with two 1,550-horsepower inboard sterndrives or a phalanx of 450-horsepower outboards lashed to the back. There has never been a better time to be a performance boater.

The emergence of the center console as a high-performance powerboat is one of the Great Recession’s few silver linings. Traditional offshore V-bottoms are being outsold in larger numbers by high-performance boat manufacturers. Some people have completely given up on classic performance boats.

Are Any Fast Boats Fuel-efficient

Sadly, this is not the case. Though catamarans are more economical than V bottoms, no vessel can be considered fuel-efficient. There is good news, though, in that today’s motors are far more environmentally friendly than their ancestors, and hence pollute less.

IMAGES

High Performance Speed Boats: The Ultimate Go-Fast Guide
12 Fastest Speed Boats in The World in 2023 (with interior photos)
Lamborghini MTI 52’ Super Veloce Catamaran
DCB Tests First Mercury Racing 860-Powered Catamaran
New 27m Fast Catamaran Yacht: Power Boats
What makes the F50 catamaran the fastest boat on water?

VIDEO

1800 hp catamaran speed boat at Okoboji
Best boat
I Bought A Very Cheap Boat
Test drive new catamaran speed boat
130+MPH Speed Boat!
Classic yachts and performance catamarans; the beauty of boats #catamarans #catamaran #boatsforsale

COMMENTS

The 8 Fastest Cruising Catamarans (With Speedchart)
Gunboat 68 (+35Kts) Gunboat 68 is a cruising catamaran designed to reach the highest speeds possible. Made by Gunboat, the ship uses Grand-Prix racing boats' designs to develop the speediest cruising catamaran on the market. Gunboat 68 is made entirely from carbon composites, which keeps the ship lightweight and fast.
High Performance Speed Boats: The Ultimate Go-Fast Guide
Catamaran Speed Boats. Catamarans are the fastest high-performance boats available. There is no speed between a catamaran and a V-hull of the same length with identical- a catamaran will always be faster. High-performance catamarans have increased in popularity over the past few years because they are becoming more powerful, lighter, and faster ...
Fastest Catamarans for Cruising in 2023
Outremer. Outremer Catamarans is one of the original makers of French performance cats, in business since 1984. According to their website, the company has made over 300 boats since then. A large-scale production boat maker they are not. These are custom-built fast catamarans of the highest quality, made for safety, comfort, and speed.
High-Performance Power Catamarans
Freeman catamarans were fast out of the gate. The original 33 hit a top end of some 55 knots with twin 350-hp outboards. Customers were sold, and demand for larger boats poured in. Freeman expanded, offering a 37 and 42, and earlier this year, the company released a 47-footer with a 13-foot, 2-inch beam.
6 Best Performance Cruising Catamarans (Buyer's Guide)
The Outremer 4x is a stable and comfortable high-speeding cruising catamaran that performs ocean crossings and confronts any weather with remarkable ease. Named the European Boat of the Year in 2017, this 48-foot (14.6 m) bluewater cruiser sails faster than wind speed and attains maximum cruising speeds of 20 knots.. The 4x is an upgrade of the extremely popular Outremer 45, thus retaining ...
7 Fastest Speedboats of 2023
The Guinness World Record holder for the fastest boat in the world is the jet-powered hydroplane Spirit of Australia, which reached an eye-watering speed of approximately 317 mph. The speed-boat market offers multiple categories of boats designed to go fast, including V-bottom, catamaran and center-console body styles. They're equipped with ...
Fast Bluewater Cruisers: the best new performance bluewater catamarans
For those with the budget, this is the ideal size of boat, in terms of speed bought by long waterline length, volume for accommodation and payload capacity (3 tonnes), for long-term, fast ...
Fast Speed Boats from Mystic, MTI, Skater, and Outerlimits
If you have a little less money, say in the $750,000 range, you can buy a 160- to 180-mph pleasure boat, not quite a member of the 200-mph club but still plenty fast in anyone's book. And there are all kinds not-exactly-slow, 150-mph boats available in the $300,000 to $750,000 range. These four speed boats, from Mystic, MTI, Skater, and ...
[Updated] The fastest cruising catamarans of 2020
This boat can reach a maximum speed of 15 knots, with a comfortable sailing speed at 9-10 knots. The Privilege Signature 510 is another fast cruising catamaran, recently acquired by the German Hanse Group.
High-Powered Cat Fight: Survival of the Fastest
After testing the DCB Mach 26, the company now has earned a place in discussion of really quick catamarans. The second-fastest cat in our roundup, the Mach 26 blazed to a 121.2-mph top speed on the radar gun, more than 10 mph faster than the third-fastest Hustler 377 Talon we tested in Miami.
Skater Powerboats
The Number One builder of high-performance catamarans in the world has been in business for 50 years. Contact. navigate_before. navigate_next. Skater is the standard by which all other high-performance boat manufacturers are compared. The sleekest in design, the fastest, and the most sought-after Skater is the Bugatti of the water. Founded and ...
How Fast Do Catamarans Go?
August 30, 2022. ‍ Catamarans are known for their speed, and some vessels are fast enough to break world sailing speed records. Catamarans can go between 15 and 30 knots, with the fastest achieving speeds well in excess of 60 knots. Sailing catamarans are sometimes twice as fast as monohulls and cut through the water with greater efficiency.
The World's Fastest-sailing Multihulls
Launched in 2007 for the express purpose setting a new round-the-world record, the Nigel Irens/Benoit Cabaret-designed IDEC measures 97 feet long and can carry up to 5,600-sqaure-feet of sail on her 104-foot mast. In setting the 24-hour record, IDEC maintained an average speed of 27.75 knots. In the course of his solo world circuit, Joyon ...
A Guide to High Performance Boats
The catamaran go-fast models range in length from 28 to 52-feet, and the longer the boat, the better the performance and speed. Most models feature twin motor setups offering you up to 1,750-HP, with top speeds of up to 180-mph, thanks to the exceptional stability provided by the catamaran hull system.
The World's Fastest Center Console Boats
Fountain 38 Center Console. Photo by Fountain. The 38 CC runs in the mid-70s-80 mph range with stock triple Mercury 400M outboards; the company's fastest yet 38 - a quad Mercury Racing 400R engine - is a 100-mph boat, residing at Lake of the Ozarks. Fountain 38 CC sales exceeded expectations says Harris, as loyal customers who used to run ...
High-Performance Speed Boats: The Ultimate Guide
Where you have more than one fast boat, there will be racing. The fastest speed on the water ever achieved came on Oct. 8, 1978 on Blowering Dam reservoir in Australia, where Ken Warby drove the "Spirit of Australia" to a two-way average top speed of 317.6 mph, a record no one has been able to touch ever since — it's the fastest speed ...
Catamaran Performance Boats for Sale
luxury good deal price drop 2007 28 Vector One owner boat power with a single 625 ilmor motor with total HR under 100. This boat is amazing driving performance fast boat. Its easy to drive in rough water and smooth water handling and with a Top speed of 98mph. Also has a nice triple-axle Extreme custom trailer .
How Fast Do Catamarans Go? 5 Examples (With Pictures)
Sailing catamarans typically average about 10 knots. Pontoon boats average about 20 mph. A powerboat cruiser can average anywhere between 30 and 50 mph. Cigarette boats can even reach close to 90 mph in the proper conditions. Sailboats average between 6 and 12 mph depending on wind conditions.
Cruising Catamaran Speed! With Examples and Explanation
The Ice Cat 61 is a luxury catamaran. At 61 feet (18.60 meters) long, it is a large catamaran that has been designed with both speed and stability in mind. While its average cruising speed is 12 knots, it can achieve up to 25 knots. The ICE Cat 61 has been designed with carbon and glass fiber - materials that allow the boat to be lighter.
15 Fastest Boats In The World
Outerlimits Power Boats has a large selection of high-speed power boats. The SV-50, SV-52, SL-44, SL-52, and even catamarans like the 43CAT and 48CAT are among their fastest boats. One of their quickest speedboats is the SV-52. It was made to work well at high speeds and is known for its smooth ride and soft landings, even in rough and choppy ...
Fastest Boats in the World
120 to 150 MPH In this speed range, buyers still have both V-bottom and catamaran options. On the V-bottom side, Cigarette Racing Team offers three models—the 39 Top Gun, the 42 Tiger and the 50 Marauder—that can fill the bill if powered by Mercury Racing 1550/1350 power-adjustable engines, or Mercury Racing 1350 engines. Though Outerlimits Offshore Powerboats also offers a host of sit ...
Catamaran Vs. Speedboat (What's the Difference)
Catamarans are fast, especially long ones. ... High-Speed Catamarans vs V-bottom Speedboats. When go-fast boats first appeared, they were all the same design: a V-bottom monohull with a high deadrise and upward of three engines, based on the vessel's length as well as beam. ... Are Any Fast Boats Fuel-efficient. Sadly, this is not the case ...
Fastest Outboard Boat On Earth! Top Speed Revealed 2023 MTI 440X
World's fastest outboard performance pleasure production boat ever made - MTI 440X Review Top speed and more with boating adventurers Mike and Sarah Howe of ...