Catamaran charter: choosing the right boat

Space: compare the layout, not just the length

Start with who will actually sleep aboard. A four-cabin yacht may allocate cabins differently from another boat of the same overall length. Ask for the layout, bed dimensions where important, number of heads and the position of any crew berth. Check whether the advertised maximum capacity includes saloon sleeping or small forepeak berths. A hired skipper needs a suitable place to sleep before you calculate the space left for guests.

Separate social space from private space. Compare the cockpit, saloon and access between them, but also consider noise, ventilation, storage and where wet equipment will go. Ask which comfort features are actually fitted to the charter boat rather than assuming every boat of the same model has air conditioning, a generator or a watermaker.

Handling: assess the boat you will charter

A sailing catamaran normally provides a different motion and living experience from a monohull, but it is not automatically simpler for an unfamiliar skipper. Ask the operator what experience it expects with the selected size and configuration. Discuss close-quarters handling, visibility from the helm, reefing instructions and the equipment fitted to that particular yacht.

Use the handover to understand the engines, electrical systems, anchoring equipment and emergency procedures. Do not choose a larger boat solely because it advertises more beds. If you want a skipper, confirm their accommodation and availability before finalising the guest list.

Route and berth costs

Check both beam and draft against the intended cruising area. A shallower draft on some catamarans does not remove reef, channel or anchoring restrictions. Ask the base which marinas can accommodate the boat's width and how berth charges are calculated. A berth that suits a monohull may not be available at the same cost or in the same location.

Compare the full proposed week: charter rate, compulsory extras, skipper if needed, fuel, moorings, transfers and optional equipment. Ask which comforts work away from shore power and what additional fuel or operating limits they introduce. Use the written equipment list and contract rather than a model brochure as the final reference.

A useful shortlist

Choose two or three boats in the same departure area and date range. Compare actual layout, condition information, equipment, handover arrangements and operator support. Ask for clarification where a description or image does not establish a feature. Use the search to find candidates, then request a complete proposal for the exact boat and week.