Speed Showdown: Why Catamarans Outpace Monohulls in Calm Waters!

Picture this: two boats gliding across glassy water — one sleek and single-hulled, the other wide and twin-hulled. The catamaran surges ahead, leaving the monohull trailing in its wake (though not all of them! Ever tried the 49er sailboat? We’ll come to that!) 

You might wonder — are catamarans faster than monohulls? The short answer is yes, especially in calm conditions where hydrodynamics take the spotlight.

So, why not take  a wider viewpoint of the same? Here’s to knowing more - 

Why Do Catamarans Hold the Edge in Calm Waters?

When the sea is smooth and the wind light, catamarans simply move with less resistance. As you might know, that they are type of multihull sailboat, their dual-hull geometry reduces drag because each hull has a smaller wetted surface compared to a single, larger monohull. The wide beam provides lift and stability without needing deep ballast. This efficient design means catamarans can achieve higher speeds before hitting their planing threshold — that magical point when a boat begins to skim on top of the water.

According to a 2024 report by the American Sailing Association, lightweight catamarans demonstrate up to 22% greater average speed in calm-water trials compared to similar-size monohulls. That’s a difference you can feel — and see — the moment the sails fill.

An Interesting Facet You Must Know 

Though technically speaking, multihulls are faster than monohulls, but, some of these like the 49er sailboat, have a wide planing hull, which gives them a wide area. In fact, that’s a plus point, as it eases the sail process. Now coming to catamarans – do you know that they have a similar trapize set-up minus the hiking racks? Well, that’s kind of something of scary fun, since that could push one a couple of more feet to the windward range! 

Are you ready to take up the challenge? 

Hydrodynamic Efficiency: What Makes Cats Fly?

It’s all about water flow. The twin hulls slice through the water with minimal turbulence. This reduces hull displacement and boosts the sail area-to-weight ratio — two critical factors for maximizing speed on small, trailerable models.

• Catamarans experience reduced wetted surface area per hull, meaning less friction drag.

• Their wider stance lowers roll resistance, allowing smoother, more consistent acceleration.

  
  

Take the Hobie Getaway or the WindRider 17 — both are compact, trailerable catamarans designed for easy launch and impressive performance. Their shallow draft lets them glide where a traditional monohull might struggle. That’s a clear win for weekend sailors looking for both thrill and ease.

How Do Monohulls Compare in Light Wind?

Monohulls have their strengths — they offer a classic feel and responsive heel that many sailors love. But in calm water, their heavier displacement and deeper keel slow them down. The fastest monohull cruising sailboat might still lag behind a lighter cat of similar length under the same wind conditions.

• The single-hull design carries more wetted surface area, increasing drag.

• Heavier ballast means a slower lift through the planing threshold, especially in light wind.

  
  

Still, many sailors appreciate the solid tracking and traditional control of a monohull sailboat for sale, especially for open-water cruising where waves, not calm, dictate performance.

Catamaran Sailboat vs Monohull: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Catamaran Sailboat	Monohull Sailboat
Hull Design	Dual narrow hulls	Single wide hull
Beam Width	Wider for stability	Narrower, deeper keel
Displacement	Lighter overall	Heavier due to ballast
Wetted Surface	Less per hull	Greater total area
Planing Threshold	Achieved sooner	Reached later
Stability	Naturally balanced	Depends on ballast
Speed in Calm Water	Higher average speed	Moderate to slow
Comfort	Minimal heeling	Noticeable heel angle
Trailerability	Easy, lightweight models available	Heavier, less portable

Now that you are better aware of the comparison between a catamaran sailboat vs monohull, assuredly, you will have a higher capacity in dealing with its specifics. 

Why Does This Matter for You? 

If you’re new to sailing or simply want more fun per knot, the catamaran’s design gives you a faster, flatter ride with fewer surprises. You’ll spend less time fighting drag and more time enjoying the water. Plus, with compact, trailerable models, you can tow your adventure to any lake or coastal inlet within hours.

Sailing Made Simple with Expert Support

This is where Rick’s Small SailBoats LLC comes in. Whether you’re eyeing a nimble catamaran or a trusted monohull, we offer both new and used boats with the added value of an 8-hour hands-on sailing lesson included with every purchase. You’re not just buying a boat — you’re gaining the confidence to sail it, with ongoing support and honest advice every step of the way.

Ready to Feel the Speed for Yourself?

So, the next time someone asks, are catamarans faster than monohulls, you’ll have more than an answer — you’ll have proof from experience. Catamarans bring pure efficiency to calm-water sailing, and that’s something every sailor should feel firsthand.

And here’s a little bonus to get you started: This Thanksgiving, Rick’s Small SailBoats LLC is offering special discounts on select trailerable catamarans and monohulls. It’s the perfect time to make speed, simplicity, and sailing freedom part of your life.