Catamarans are not just fancy party boats! These sleek twin-hulled vessels are so much more than floating lounges. From ancient ocean voyages to modern engineering marvels, catamarans have a fascinating history and some seriously cool capabilities. Whether you’re a first-timer wondering what is a catamaran or a seasoned sailor in the middle of the catamaran vs monohull debate, these catamaran facts will give you a fresh perspective.
Catamarans are growing rapidly in popularity for good reason. They’re fast, stable, spacious, and ideal for everything from solo adventures to family sailing holidays. Ready to dive in? Here are seven surprising catamaran facts you probably didn’t know—but definitely should.
Catamaran Facts – Table of Contents
1. Catamarans Have a 3,000-Year-Old Legacy
One of the most surprising catamaran facts is just how old they are. Long before luxury charters, the first catamarans were created by Polynesian seafarers around 1500 BCE. These twin-hulled rafts let them navigate vast stretches of the Pacific with remarkable speed and precision.
Later, British explorer William Dampier recorded similar vessels in southern India, used by the Tamil people. The word “catamaran” comes from the Tamil term kattumaram, meaning “tied wood.”
Fast-forward to the 19th century, when American naval architect Nathanael Herreshoff brought catamarans into Western design. His performance models were so fast they got banned from many yacht races. That rich blend of ancient design and innovation is what makes catamaran sailing holidays so unique today.
2. They’re Not Just Stable—They’re Designed Around Geometry, Not Weight
One of the most important catamaran facts: they don’t rely on heavy ballast to stay upright like monohulls. Instead, catamarans use geometric stability—their wide twin-hull design offers natural balance and minimal tipping.
This makes them ideal family sailing boats, especially for kids or guests who get seasick easily. The ride is smoother, the deck space is bigger, and they create less drag, making them faster and more fuel-efficient than traditional boats.
Thanks to their shallow draft, catamarans can also anchor closer to shore, enter shallow bays, and even beach in some cases—another of the hidden benefits of catamarans.
3. A California Surfer Sparked a Global Catamaran Craze
Here’s one of the catamaran facts that might surprise you: the global rise of recreational catamarans started with a surfer. Hobie Alter, a California entrepreneur and surfboard designer, created the Hobie Cat in the 1960s.
These lightweight, affordable catamarans were fast, easy to sail, and could launch straight from the beach. It was the “iPhone moment” of sailing—suddenly, this hobby wasn’t just for yacht clubs but for everyday adventurers too.
Hobie Cats ignited a wave of interest that helped make catamaran sailing holidays the exciting and accessible experiences they are today.
4. They’re Used for Monster Spotting (Yes, Really)
Not all catamaran facts are technical—some are just plain fun. In Scotland, a custom-built catamaran is used for Loch Ness tours in search of the legendary monster Nessie. Designed by an Australian firm, this sleek sightseeing catamaran holds over 200 passengers and offers panoramic views.
Why a catamaran? Its stability and spacious decks make it perfect for sightseeing. Around the world, catamarans are the vessel of choice for whale watching, reef diving, and marine safaris. If you want comfort and a front-row seat to nature, there’s no better boat.
5. Borrow A Boat Has Over 680 Catamarans in 30+ Countries
One of the most empowering catamaran facts for would-be sailors: they’re incredibly easy to charter. Borrow A Boat offers over 680 catamarans in more than 30 countries (and growing).
Dreaming of sailing Greece? Fancy gliding through the Caribbean or exploring Thailand’s secret coves? Borrow A Boat has a catamaran ready for you. Choose between bareboat charters (for qualified sailors), skippered charters (local expert included), or fully crewed luxury experiences.
Top destinations include:
- Greece
- Croatia
- Italy
- Thailand
- Martinique
- British Virgin Islands
wherever you want to go, there’s a floating villa waiting.
6. They’re Perfect for Family Sailing Holidays (Here’s Why)
If you’re hunting for the ultimate family escape, catamarans are it. These family sailing boats offer ample room, reduced motion, and lots of onboard perks.
Top Catamaran Models for Families
Catamaran Bali 4.1
This beauty sleeps up to 10 guests across 4 cabins and 4 bathrooms. Families love the spacious forward cockpit, ideal for dining together while watching the sunset. There are sunbathing areas for lazy afternoons and sliding windows for ventilation. Its innovative design ensures both comfort and functionality.
- Sleeps 10 guests across 4 cabins and 4 bathrooms
- Forward cockpit perfect for sunset dinner
- Sunbathing zones and breezy interiors
Catamaran Lagoon 40
- Up to 6 cabins and 4 bathrooms
- Big hull windows with incredible views
- Great for large families or groups
Catamaran Lagoon 42
- Comfortably sleeps 9 to 12 guests
- Spacious decks and ergonomic layout
- Safe, stylish, and beginner-friendly
Other family-friendly benefits of catamarans? Safety rails, shaded lounging areas, full kitchens, and private cabins make life on board super kid-friendly.
7. You Can Cook, Sleep, Sunbathe & Sail—All Without Leaving the Deck
Last but not least in our roundup of must-know catamaran facts: these boats are full-on floating villas.
Think gourmet kitchen, private en suite cabins, outdoor dining areas, and nets for lounging in the sun. You can wake up with the sea breeze, snorkel off the back steps, cook fresh meals onboard, and relax under the stars—without ever leaving your deck.
Unlike traditional boats, catamarans offer unbeatable space and comfort. The wide beam creates roomy interiors, breezy cockpits, and panoramic views. It’s the ultimate blend of performance and leisure.
Curious to try the catamaran life for yourself?
Browse hundreds of stylish, affordable catamarans on Borrow A Boat—and book your floating villa today.