6 person catamaran

Here's what to know about a US couple missing in the Caribbean

Authorities in the eastern Caribbean are scouring waters in the region in hopes of finding a missing U.S. couple who were aboard their catamaran Simplicity when police say it was hijacked by three escaped prisoners from Grenada

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico -- Authorities in the eastern Caribbean are scouring waters in the region in hopes of finding a missing U.S. couple who were aboard their catamaran Simplicity more than a week ago when police say it was hijacked by three escaped prisoners from Grenada.

Police have said that Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel are presumed dead. The search for them began on Feb. 21 after someone discovered their catamaran abandoned on the shores of St. Vincent and alerted authorities.

Police say the three prisoners escaped from a police station on Feb. 18 and hijacked the catamaran a day later. Authorities said the prisoners then illegally entered the southwest coast of St. Vincent on Feb. 19 and docked the boat. Two days later, the three men were arrested along the island's northwest coast.

Here's what to know about the case:

It's unclear why the escaped prisoners hijacked the couple's catamaran, but it was moored at Grand Anse beach, near to the police station where the three men escaped.

Police believe the men hijacked the catamaran with the couple aboard and then allegedly threw them into the water while traveling to St. Vincent, which is located north of Grenada.

They have noted that there were signs of violence aboard the catamaran.

Police in Grenada have identified the escaped prisoners as Trevon Robertson, a 19-year-old unemployed man; Abita Stanislaus, a 25-year-old farmer; and Ron Mitchell, a 30-year-old sailor.

All were charged a couple of months ago with one count of robbery with violence. Mitchell also was charged with one count of rape, three counts of attempted rape and two counts of indecent assault and causing harm.

Vannie Curwen, Grenada’s assistant police commissioner, has said the men had been placed in a holding cell rather than in jail, because a judge hadn't yet ruled whether they would be released on bail.

The Salty Dawg Sailing Association has described Brandel and Hendry as veteran cruisers and longtime members who were “warm-hearted and capable.” It noted that Brandel served on the association’s board for two years.

The association said the couple had sailed their boat in the 2023 Caribbean Rally from Hampton, Virginia, to Antigua and planned to spend the winter cruising the eastern Caribbean. A GoFundMe donation page stated that Brandel had become a first-time grandmother.

Nick Buro, Brandel’s son, and Bryan Hendry, Hendry’s son, said in a statement Tuesday that they were “incredibly saddened” to hear that the couple was presumed dead, but added that they remain optimistic about the ongoing search.

“While the end of their life may have been dark, they brought light, and that light will never be extinguished from the hearts and minds of the people who knew, loved and cared so deeply about them,” they said.

Police in Grenada and St. Vincent have provided limited information about the case of the missing couple, noting that the investigation is ongoing, though they have said the couple is presumed dead.

Authorities haven't yet shared any specific evidence linking the three men to the couple’s disappearance. St. Vincent police say the men have been cooperating in the investigation.

The men pleaded guilty this week to immigration-related charges, and are scheduled to be sentenced on those counts in early March.

Authorities haven't said whether prosecutors in St. Vincent or Grenada would pursue the case involving the couple.

Grenada Police Commissioner Don McKenzie said the attorney generals and prosecutors on both islands “are in discussions.”

Meanwhile, Grenada police sent a team of five officials to help with the investigation in nearby St. Vincent.

Police in Grenada have launched an investigation into how the men were able to escape from their holding cell.

McKenzie has said the police station should have been secure enough to prevent such an escape, and that authorities are looking into whether it was a “system failure” or a “slip up.”

McKenzie has said no officers have resigned or been disciplined, although one supervisor at the station has been transferred to another location “to ensure a thorough investigation in this matter.”

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Police suspect U.S. couple are dead after their boat was hijacked in the Caribbean

The Associated Press

The yacht "Simplicity", that officials say was hijacked by three escaped prisoners with two people aboard, is docked at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coastguard Service Calliaqua Base, in Calliaqua, St. Vincent, on Friday. Kenton X. Chance/AP hide caption

The yacht "Simplicity", that officials say was hijacked by three escaped prisoners with two people aboard, is docked at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coastguard Service Calliaqua Base, in Calliaqua, St. Vincent, on Friday.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — A U.S. couple whose catamaran was hijacked last week in the Caribbean by three escaped prisoners were presumed dead and likely had been thrown into the ocean, police said Monday.

The accounts by police in Grenada and in St. Vincent and the Grenadines were a blow to those who were independently helping search for Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel and had hoped they were alive.

Don McKenzie, commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force, said at a news conference that the three prisoners escaped on Feb. 18 from the South Saint George Police Station. They hijacked the catamaran Simplicity on the following day and then headed to St. Vincent, where they were arrested last Wednesday, he said.

"Information suggests that while traveling between Grenada and St. Vincent, they disposed of the occupants," McKenzie said.

McKenzie said he had no conclusive proof that the couple was dead but cited a "low probability" they were alive.

Jamaica and the Bahamas are pushing back against U.S. travel warnings

Hours later, the main spokesman for the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force posted a video saying that while no bodies have been found, the couple is presumed dead based on the investigation so far.

Police report signs of violence aboard the abandoned boat

The suspects were being investigated for several criminal acts, including "bodily harm to the couple," spokesman Junior Simmons said in the brief recorded statement. There were signs of violence on the couple's boat found abandoned in St. Vincent, he said.

"Several items were strewn on the deck and in the cabin, and a red substance that resembles blood was seen on board," he said.

The nonprofit Salty Dawg Sailing Association has said that Hendry and Brandel were "veteran cruisers" and longtime members of the association, calling them "warm-hearted and capable."

It said the couple had sailed the yacht in last year's Caribbean Rally from Hampton, Virginia, to Antigua, and were spending the winter cruising in the eastern Caribbean.

A son of Hendry and a son of Brandel did not immediately return messages for comment.

A GoFundMe page created to raise money for the couple's family noted that Brandel had recently become a first-time grandmother, and that the sailing community was "shattered" by what happened.

"Kathy and Ralph, experienced adventurers, spent their retirement sailing aboard Simplicity, spending summers in New England and embracing the warmth of Caribbean winters," the page stated.

A massive search for 3 missing American sailors off Mexico coast has been called off

McKenzie, Grenada's police commissioner, said a five-person team was sent to St. Vincent to help with the investigation.

After his brief announcement on Monday, McKenzie and other police officials took questions from local media, including one reporter who asked, "Who is really to be blamed for this massive failure to keep these prisoners under the control of the (Royal Grenada Police Force) which has now resulted in this tragedy?"

The prisoners' escape is being investigated

McKenzie said police have launched an investigation into the escape and are looking into whether it was "a system failure" or a case of a "slip up."

"All aspects of that investigation are on the table," he said, adding that the police holding station where the three men were being held has "sufficient safety to prevent an incident like that (from) occurring."

When the reporter asked why the three men who were arrested remained in a holding cell instead of prison, Vannie Curwen, assistant police commissioner, said the men first had to see a magistrate who would decide whether to grant bail or order them remanded.

The escaped prisoners, Trevon Robertson, a 19-year-old unemployed man; Abita Stanislaus, a 25-year-old farmer; and Ron Mitchell, a 30-year-old sailor; were charged a couple of months ago with one count of robbery with violence. Mitchell also was charged with one count of rape, three counts of attempted rape and two counts of indecent assault and causing harm, police in Grenada said.

Simmons said the three men appeared in court in St. Vincent on Monday and pleaded guilty to four counts each of immigration-related charges, including entering the island as a "prohibited immigrant" with no passport. They are scheduled to be sentenced on those charges in March.

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O Yachts Class 6

Description

Safety at speed.

Dan Lévy launched O Yachts with the Class 4, a design by Lerouge, and he has followed this success up with the Class 6 , a design that is turning heads and making waves in the catamaran industry. The O in O-Yachts stands for Owner – these are catamarans that are developed with their owners in a partnership with the yard.

Dan’s first aim from his Latvian base, northeast of Riga, is to produce yachts that protect their owners from anything that the weather can throw at them, and that can eat up the nautical miles offshore safely, at speed. The Class 6 is setting high standards. This is a world cruiser that is competing strongly with the likes of the Garcia Explocat 52 and the HH range.

Like the O-Yachts Class 4 , this bigger boat is a catamaran for sailors and their families who want to travel big distances over an extended period of time in safety and comfort. It’s a very spacious yacht that is capable of fast cruising in a controlled fashion, whatever the state of the sea.

Keeping the Weight Off With a length of 19.50m (64 foot), the O-Yachts Class 6 weighs only 15 tonnes light. Go for the full carbon option and this number comes down to 13.5.

Dan Levy, along with Laurent Bourgnon (sadly no longer with us, double winner of the Route du Rhum, as well as the Transat Jacques-Vabre  with his brother Yvan), dreamt up this catamaran whose signature feature is a spine or longitudinal central beam that provides the boat with rigidity, stability and buoyancy in steep waves. The mast and forestay are fixed to this structure and the design allows for a large 44 square metre living space unhindered by cross beams.

Keel or Boards? In light winds, the Class 6 will sail at wind speeds and over. Make your own wind for more sailing and less motoring! The large, curved dagger-boards (an option, you can also specify keels) give a draft of 3.8 meters or 12½ feet when down, helping the Class 6 to pinch upwind, particularly in calmer conditions.

A Luxury Sporty Cat

The first priority of this boat is safety at sea, but make no mistake – this is a comfortable catamaran that goes places fast (and gets you out of trouble quickly). Performance means safety and 300 nm a day in good conditions is the target on this boat.

There is more than 44 m² (473 sq ft) of living space in the nacelle. Who needs a flybridge increasing your windage and forcing your sail and centre of effort higher?

High Tech Construction

Talk to Dan Levy, and this is clearly an area that he is passionate about. One of the keys aspects of producing a safe boat is strength, so the Class 6 has been “over engineered” in this respect. There is a spectrum of materials you can choose from, depending on your wish list and budget. These range from Vinylester resin/carbon-glass-kevlar/Gelcoat on the Performance pack to Epoxy resin/100% carbon + kevlar/paint on the Race pack.

Weight control is a big factor in the design of these yachts, so  carbon fiber is used for all the outer and inner skins. Foam is inserted into this sandwich, and the whole packagage is vacuum infused with epoxy and reinforced with Kevlar in high stress and potential impact areas.

This all-carbon construction gives a light displacement of 15 tons, with an ability to carry loads up to a total weight of 18 tons. The spine means that there is no forward crossbeam, and it gives an impressive rigidity to the narrow hulls. The axe bows are also designed to efficiently pierce through waves and space is maximised through the use of chines.

With the curved daggerboards option and lifting rudders mounted in a well, the draft can be reduced to 0.9 m (3 feet).

Sailing – Safety First

Examples include a rotating mast and carbon boom with hydraulic furling system. The staysail, genoa and gennaker, can also furl hydraulically. The sail plan emphasises the priority of this yacht which is safety. You will be matching wind speed with the main and XL Genoa (104m2) in light air (3 to 10kts). With a Code 0 or Gennaker flying off the bowsprit, you will be sailing faster than TWS.

The steering systems can be configured as wheel steering or tiller steering with seats.

Mainsail, Genoa, Solent and Storm Sail The O Yachts Class 6 typically comes with a mainsail and genoa which can be unfurled with a press of a button. You will have a variety of lighter wind sails to fly off the bowsprit (Code 0, 280 m² gennaker, also on hydraulics). With these flying you will be faster than wind speed on a reach in calmer conditions. With the sheets coming back to hydraulic winches at the helm, it doesn’t take long to furl the genoa and deploy the self-tacking staysail if the wind picks up. And this being a safety first boat, there is an option for a storm sail as well.

Centred Mast Another benefit of the spine is that it has enabled the designers to set the mast further back than you would normally see on a comparable catamaran. This is a trick more recently used by Gunboat on their 68 to achieve a balanced sail-plan, and it means that the main sail area is only 109m2 (or 1173.27 sq) ft in favour of more sail area up front: which is easier to manage of course. The centralised mast position also helps to give a stable, smooth ride.

Living Space

This is an  area where the Class 6 excels. The saloon/cockpit area is 44 m² or 475 square feet, a huge living space with an enormous galley. This is a French designed boat after all.

The sliding window at the back of the saloon opens right up to give you an Open+ design. Down below, the berths are wide with island beds in the aft cabins thanks to those chines. Forward, the berths are arranged athwartships and higher up, in order to accommodate the performance of the bows. Foam sandwich is used in the furniture to keep the weight down.

That said, the choice is yours on this boat: pick one of the following options:

– Fixed keel (Simple, more buoyancy) – Daggerboards – Asymetric daggerboards – Curved Asymetric daggerboards

The whole idea of the Class 6 is to keep the engines off, but how does she perform coming into the marina?

She Motors Well, the Class 6 comes with twin 80 HP Yanmar engines. You will begin to appreciate the shape of those hulls, as with these running at 2,500 rpm, you will be pushed along at ten knots in a steady sea, using around 11 litres per hour (2.9 US gal/h).

Use half the fuel and only one engine and you will cruise comfortably at 7 knots.

The O Yachts Class 6 competes in a hot market segment:  luxury fast catamarans. But what sets the Class 6 apart, is its emphasis on safety and comfort.

Yes, this boat is fast, but that’s almost a by product of this innovative design. The living space feels like a New York apartment. The boat has been kept light, is rigid and has a punchy sail plan (without being overpowered).

If you are looking for a yacht to take you long distances, the Class 6 ought to be on your shopping list. Dan claims that the Class 6 is the best catamaran a couple can manage without skipper. It is hard not to agree with him.

There is even a power version, with a Smart Hybrid power unit (one diesel engine, one electric).

For more information on the Class 6, head to O-Yachts .

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Six Person Package

Quick Details

Users Boat Capacity:  6 people

Cruise Ship Boat Size:   38′ Catamaran | 43′ – 49′ Monohull

Key Hole Cabins:  3

Carefree captained trip on your very own private sailboat!

This trip is ideal for six people and has three private cabins and a shared bathroom for the guests. Choose either the 38′ Catamaran mehatibel or a 43′ – 49′ monohull with four cabins . All boats are equipped with safety gear, motorized dinghy, full galley gear and BBQ grill and courtesy consumable kit. Package pricing includes captains fees, complimentary sleep aboard the evening before your first sailing day and accommodations on the boat for the entire trip. Just bring along personal gear, linens and food and beverages for the trip.

Be ready to lend a hand, as the captain may call upon the crew to help while docking or anchoring (don’t worry, they’ll tell you what to expect and do!)

Custom trips available for two to six people on boats 33′ – 49′ – Inquire for a custom quote

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43′ – 49′ Sailboat | 3 Day Sail

• Early Season (May 17 – June 17): $4,008 + tax   ($668/person for a 6 person trip)
• Prime Season (June 18 – September 12): $4,648 + tax   ($775/person for a 6 person trip)
• Late Season (September 13 – September 29): $4,299 + tax   ($717/person for a 6 person trip)

38′ Catamaran | 3 Day Sail

• Early Season (May 20 – June 20): $4,705+ tax   ($785/person for a 6 person trip)
• Prime Season (June 21 – September 15): $5,506 + tax   ($918/person for a 6 person trip)
• Late Season (September 16 – October 2): $5,106 + tax   ($851/person for a 6 person trip)

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Four person package.

Carefree captained trip on your very own private 39′ sailboat! This trip is ideal for four people and has two private cabins and a shared bathroom for the guests.

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Cruising Catamaran Certification Course

The Cruising Catamaran Certification Course is a four-day sailing class designed to create confident, competent catamaran sailors. Learn how to sail while you live-aboard a catamaran on Lake Superior!

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mehitabel – 38’ Lagoon Catamaran

Book and learn more about mehitabel, our 38’ 2010 Lagoon catamaran that sleeps up to ten guests! Enjoy the comfort package with cockpit cushions, speakers, and more.

CraigCat E2 Elite

Since 1990 the patented CraigCat horizontal Catamaran is unique in form and function. Super high quality and made of only the finest materials available, and built in Orlando Florida. This state of art craft not only appeals to all ages, men and women alike, but defies the world of regular boats and personal watercraft. CraigCats are super stable, comfortable side-by-side seating, unsinkable and have an amazingly dry ride even in rougher conditions. Low maintenance and easy to use, all in a compact powerboat that you can tow with practically anything. Freshwater or saltwater, fishing or cruising, the CraigCat will amaze you! Discover the CraigCat difference for yourself, test drive one today!

Features With amenities that no other small boat on the planet has to offer! Convertible bimini top, full remote (steering, shifting and throttle), electric key start, electric engine tilt, custom deluxe bucket seats, twin docking lights, NAV lights, LED position light, LED courtesy deck light, high performance JBL saltwater rated AM/FM/USB/ Bluetooth sound system with twin HD 2-way waterproof marine speakers, fishing rod holders (4), custom composite full-width storage compartment, polished stainless steel beverage holders, splash-off and cooler.

E2 Elite Fully loaded (white and blue) Tohatsu 30HP – $13,985 | 25HP – $13,785, Mercury 30HP – $14,985

E2 Elite Fully Loaded Gulf Stream Edition (seafoam and white) Tohatsu 30HP – $14,484 | 25 – $14,284, Mercury 30HP – $15,484

E2 Elite Fully Loaded Tahitian (tan and beige) Tohatsu 30HP – $14,384 | 25HP – $14,184, Mercury 30HP – $15,384

E2 Elite Fully Loaded Key West Edition (yellow and red) Tohatsu 30HP – $14,384 | 25HP – $14,184, Mercury 30HP – $15,384

Custom Ez Loader trailer – $1,488

Specifications Speed: Up to 30 mph Length: 11’4”. On the trailer15’. Width: 5’5”. On the trailer 6’. Draft: (Engine full down) 13”, (Engine up) 3” Average full consumption: 1 gallon per hour. 6 gallon capacity. Weight: 550 LBS. On the trailer 800LBS. Rated Capacity: 250 LBS per seat, 600LBS total Power: Mercury, Tohatsu 30hp

E2 Elite model build sheet with prices. Click here to download.

Available in these styles: Click the bars below to see photos. Click on photos to enlarge.

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$975 / Exclusive Package Add-On

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Exclusive package.

CraigCat has taken cool to a whole new level! Introducing the Exclusive Package where high tech meets luxury. The Exclusive Package features high intensity LED NAV lights with a polished stainless steel finish, LED courtesy deck light, QUAD (4) super high intensity forward facing LED docking lights with port and starboard facing LED docking lights, top-of-the-line Infinity sound system – 3.5” color LCD display AM/FM/USB/Bluetooth/weather-band, additional HD rail mounted 2-way Kicker speakers (total of 8 speaker system), and custom exclusive badging.

• Upgrade any E2 Elite or Catch-it model with the exclusive series package: $975

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10 Best Small Sailboats (Under 20 Feet)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Compact, easy to trailer, simple to rig, easy to maintain and manage, and affordable, the best small boats all have one thing in common: they offer loads of fun while out there on the water.

So whether you're on a budget or just looking for something that can offer ultimate daytime rides without compromising on safety, aesthetic sensibilities, alternate propulsion, and speed, the best small sailboats under 20 feet should be the only way to go.

Let's be brutally honest here; not everyone needs a 30-foot sailboat to go sailing. They come with lots of features such as electronics, entertainment, refrigeration, bunks, a galley, and even a head. But do you really need all these features to go sailing? We don't think so.

All you need to go sailing is a hull, a mast, rudder, and, of course, a sail. And whether you refer to them as daysailers, trailerable sailboats , a weekender sailboat, or pocket cruisers, there's no better way to enjoy the thrills of coastal sailing than on small sailboats.

There are a wide range of small boats measuring less than 20 feet available in the market. These are hot products in the market given that they offer immense thrills out on the sea without the commitment required to cruise on a 30-footer. A small sailboat will not only give you the feel of every breeze but will also give you the chance to instantly sense every change in trim.

In this article, we'll highlight 10 best small sailboats under 20 feet . Most models in this list are time-tested, easy to rig, simple to sail, extremely fun, and perfect either for solo sailing or for sailing with friends and family. So if you've been looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats , you've come to the right place.

So without further ado, let's roll on.

Table of contents

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-15"}}

The Marlow-Hunter 15 is not only easy to own since it's one of the most affordable small sailboats but also lots of fun to sail. This is a safe and versatile sailboat for everyone. Whether you're sailing with your family or as a greenhorn, you'll love the Hunter 15 thanks to its raised boom, high freeboard, and sturdy FRP construction.

With high sides, a comfortable wide beam, a contoured self-bailing cockpit, and fiberglass construction, the Hunter 15 is certainly designed with the novice sailor in mind. This is why you can do a lot with this boat without falling out, breaking it, or capsizing. Its contoured self-baiting cockpit will enable you to find a fast exit while its wide beam will keep it steady and stable no matter what jibes or weight shifts happen along the way.

This is a small sailboat that can hold up to four people. It's designed to give you a confident feeling and peace of mind even when sailing with kids. It's easy to trailer, easy to rig, and easy to launch. With a price tag of about $10k, the Hunter 15 is a fun, affordable, and versatile boat that is perfect for both seasoned sailors and novices. It's a low-maintenance sailboat that can be great for teaching kids a thing or two about sailing.

Catalina 16.5

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-16-5"}}

Catalina Yachts are synonymous with bigger boats but they have some great and smaller boats too such as Catalina 16.5. This is one of the best small sailboats that are ideal for family outings given that it has a big and roomy cockpit, as well as a large storage locker. Designed with a hand-laminated fiberglass sloop, the Catalina 16.5 is versatile and is available in two designs: the centerboard model and the keel model.

The centerboard model is designed with a powerful sailplane that remains balanced as a result of the fiberglass centerboard, the stable hull form, and the rudder. It also comes with a tiller extension, adjustable hiking straps, and adjustable overhaul. It's important to note that these are standard equipment in the two models.

As far as the keel model is concerned, this is designed with a high aspect keel as the cast lead and is attached with stainless steel keel bolts, which makes this model perfect for mooring or docking whenever it's not in use. In essence, the centerboard model is perfect if you'll store it in a trailer while the keel model can remain at the dock.

All in all, the Catalina 16.5 is one of the best small sailboats that you can get your hands on for as low as $10,000. This is certainly a great example of exactly what a daysailer should be.

{{boat-info="/boats/hobie-16"}}

There's no list of small, trailerable, and fun sailboats that can be complete without the inclusion of the classic Hobie 16. This is a durable design that has been around and diligently graced various waters across the globe since its debut way back in 1969 in Southern California. In addition to being durable, the Hobie 16 is trailerable, great for speed, weighs only 320 pounds, great for four people, and more importantly, offers absolute fun.

With a remarkable figure of over 100,000 launched since its debut, it's easy to see that the Hobie 16 is highly popular. Part of this popularity comes from its asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam sandwiched hulls that include kick-up rudders. This is a great feature that allows it to sail up to the beach.

For about $12,000, the Hobie 16 will provide you with endless fun throughout the summer. It's equipped with a spinnaker, trailer, and douse kit. This is a high-speed sailboat that has a large trampoline to offer lots of space not just for your feet but also to hand off the double trapezes.

Montgomery 17

{{boat-info="/boats/montgomery-17"}}

Popularly known as the M-17, The Montgomery 17 was designed by Lyle C. Hess in conjunction with Jerry Montgomery in Ontario, California for Montgomery Boats. Designed either with keel or centerboard models, the M-17 is more stable than most boats of her size. This boat is small enough to be trailered but also capable of doing moderate offshore passages.

This small sailboat is designed with a masthead and toe rail that can fit most foresails. It also has enough space for two thanks to its cuddly cabin, which offers a sitting headroom, a portable toilet, a pair of bunks, a DC power, and optional shore, and a proper amount of storage. That's not all; you can easily raise the deck-stepped mast using a four-part tackle.

In terms of performance, the M-17 is one of the giant-killers out there. This is a small sailboat that will excel in the extremes and make its way past larger boats such as the Catalina 22. It glides along beautifully and is a dog in light air, though it won't sail against a 25-knot wind, which can be frustrating. Other than that, the Montgomery 17 is a great small sailboat that can be yours for about $14,000.

Norseboat 17.5

{{boat-info="/boats/norseboat-17-5"}}

As a versatile daysailer, Norseboat 17.5 follows a simple concept of seaworthiness and high-performance. This small sailboat perfectly combines both contemporary construction and traditional aesthetics. Imagine a sailboat that calls itself the "Swiss Army Knife of Boats!" Well, this is a boat that can sail and row equally well.

Whether you're stepping down from a larger cruiser or stepping up from a sea kayak, the unique Norseboat 17.5 is balanced, attractive, and salty. It has curvaceous wishbone gaff, it is saucy, and has a stubby bow-sprit that makes it attractive to the eyes. In addition to her beauty, the Norseboat 17.5 offers an energy-pinching challenge, is self-sufficient, and offers more than what you're used to.

This is a small, lightweight, low-maintenance sailboat that offers a ticket to both sailing and rowing adventures all at the same time. At about 400 pounds, it's very portable and highly convenient. Its mainsails may look small but you'll be surprised at how the boat is responsive to it. With a $12,500 price tag, this is a good small sailboat that offers you the versatility to either row or sail.

{{boat-info="/boats/sage-marine-sage-17"}}

If you've been looking for a pocket cruiser that inspires confidence, especially in shoal water, look no further than the Sage 17. Designed by Jerry Montgomery in 2009, the Sage 17 is stable and should heel to 10 degrees while stiffening up. And because you want to feel secure while sailing, stability is an integral feature of the Sage 17.

This is a sailboat that will remain solid and stable no matter which part of the boat you stand on. Its cabin roof and the balsa-cored carbon-fiber deck are so strong that the mast doesn't require any form of compression post. The self-draining cockpit is long enough and capable of sleeping at 6 feet 6 inches.

The Sage 17 may be expensive at $25k but is a true sea warrior that's worth look at. This is a boat that will not only serve you right but will also turn heads at the marina.    

{{boat-info="/boats/laserperformance-laser-sb3"}}

Having been chosen as the overall boat of the year for 2008 by the Sailing World Magazine, the Laser SB3 is one of the coolest boats you'll ever encounter. When sailing upwind, this boat will lock into the groove while its absolute simplicity is legendary. In terms of downwind sailing, having this boat will be a dream come true while it remains incredibly stable even at extraordinary speed.

Since its debut in 2004, the Laser SB3 has surged in terms of popularity thanks to the fact that it's designed to put all the controls at your fingertips. In addition to a lightweight mast, its T- bulb keel can be hauled and launched painlessly. For about $18,000, the Laser SB3 ushers you into the world of sports sailing and what it feels to own and use a sports boat.

{{boat-info="/boats/fareast-18"}}

As a manufacturer, Fareast is a Chinese boat manufacturer that has been around for less than two decades. But even with that, the Fareast 18 remains a very capable cruiser-racer that will take your sailing to the next level. In addition to its good looks, this boat comes with a retractable keel with ballast bulb, a powerful rig, and an enclosed cabin.

Its narrow design with a closed stern may be rare in sailboats of this size, but that's not a problem for the Fareast 18. This design not only emphasizes speed but also makes it a lot easier to maintain this boat. Perfect for about 6 people, this boat punches above its weight. It's, however, designed to be rigged and launched by one person.

This is a relatively affordable boat. It's agile, safe, well-thought-out, well built, and very sporty.

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If you're in the market looking for a small sailboat that offers contemporary performance with classic beauty, the Paine 14 should be your ideal option. Named after its famous designer, Chuck Paine, this boat is intentionally designed after the classic Herreshoff 12.5 both in terms of dimensions and features.

This is a lightweight design that brings forth modern fin keel and spade rudder, which makes it agile, stable, and faster. The Paine 14 is built using cold-molded wood or west epoxy. It has varnished gunnels and transoms to give it an old-time charm. To make it somehow modern, this boat is designed with a carbon mast and a modern way to attach sails so that it's ready to sail in minutes.

You can rest easy knowing that the Paine 14 will not only serve you well but will turn heads while out there.

{{boat-info="/boats/wd-schock-lido-14"}}

Many sailors will attest that their first sailing outing was in a Lido 14. This is a classic sailboat that has been around for over four decades and still proves to be a perfect match to modern small boats, especially for those still learning the ropes of sailing.

With seating for six people, the Lido 14 can be perfect for solo sailing , single-handed sailing, or if you're planning for shorthanded sailing. While new Lido 14 boats are no longer available, go for a functional used Lido 14 and you'll never regret this decision. It will serve you well and your kids will probably fall in love with sailing if Lido 14 becomes their main vessel during weekends or long summer holidays.

Bottom Line

There you have it; these are some of the best small sailboats you can go for. While there are endless small sailboats in the market, the above-described sailboat will serve you right and make you enjoy the wind.

Choose the perfect sailboat, invest in it, and go out there and have some good fun!

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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.

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17 Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World

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Catamarans are quickly outstripping single-hull boats for long-distance journeys. They are more stable and comfortable , and some can travel more than 200 miles in a day. In today’s article, I have put together a complete (well almost) list of some of the best catamarans for circumnavigating the planet; the question is, which one is best for you?

The best catamarans for sailing around the world include: 

• The Fountaine Pajot Ipanema 58

These cats focus on speed, safety, and comfort for longer journeys. 

This article will show you the seventeen best catamarans for long journeys, and why they’re the best. You’ll also learn some great tips on what to look for in a Catamaran and how to save money by buying a used catamaran. Let this list be a jumping-off point for your future research!

Pro-tip; here are the actual costs of maintaining a cat and here are considerations on how to circumnavigate .

Table of Contents

The Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World 

A catamaran is a double-hulled boat with a deck or cabin area in between (bluewater cat definition in this article ). The double hull design means that the boat rocks less, sits higher on the water, uses less fuel to sail, and can be sailed in shallower waters than a single-hulled boat without worrying about grounding. 

Catamarans come in a variety of sizes and can be sail-powered or motor-powered and range from single-person sailing boats to family-sized yachts. Every catamaran design is different, and the twin-hull shape offers many ways to customize the layout of a ship. 

Each boat on this list is a larger catamaran (+40ft, more on size here ), so if you’re going to sail around the world, you want lots of space for provisions and rest.

Of course, there are tons of technical specs for each of these boats, but I’m going to focus on the overall features of each of these catamarans, what makes them stand out, and why they would each be an excellent choice for a transatlantic journey. 

Antares 44i 

The Antares 44i is an excellent option for sailing around the world and was explicitly designed for long-distance cruising. It performs well in any weather conditions, can be sailed easily by two people, and you’ll be able to sail long distances and live in comfort. 

Although it can be easily sailed by a crew of two I believe that a true bluewater cat should be set up for single-handed sailing, more on that in another article .

This catamaran features a stateroom on each hull and a forward cabin with plenty of storage space. The living and entertainment features include a flatscreen tv and a high-end deck speaker system. 

With this model, Antares dedicates itself to high-quality boats with optimal rigging and engine configurations. 

Atlantic 42

Atlantic is no longer building this catamaran, but there are usually a few pre-owned boats on the market. You can also get it made custom if you love the design, but be prepared to spend more money on a custom boat (custom boat also gets custom problems ;)). 

The Atlantic 42 is slightly smaller than some of the other catamarans on this list but is a seaworthy vessel. 42 ft is what most sailors I interview ( in this article ) said was the smallest cat to safely cross big oceans. It is also a decent size to counter the risk of capsizing (more on that here ).

It has a forward cockpit and pilothouse, which gives the owner a better use of space and makes the boat easier to navigate. With single-handed capability, one person can sail it easily and let the rest of the crew relax. 

One of the best-praised aspects of the Atlantic 42 is its galley, more extensive than most 42-footers (12.8-meter) can offer. 

One of the few 50 footers (15.24 meters) that can be sailed by just one person (many would of course disagree on this).

The Catana 50 is a catamaran worthy of an overseas journey. Its size adds to its stability on the open waters and its ability to sail straight through the choppy ocean and windy conditions. 

The Catana is also incredibly spacious on the inside, with substantial cabins and showers. The biggest downside to the Catana 50 is its price, as it’s much more expensive than most of its competitors. 

Catana also holds up well against some of the fastest cruising cats out there, here’s a list of the fastest cruisers if you are interested in that.

However, if you can find a gently-used Catana 50, you can rest assured that this boat will last! 

The Dolphin 42 is unique because of the use of daggerboards instead of fixed keels. This upgrade means that the boat has some pretty decent upwind performance while at the same time being faster downwind.

Centerboards and daggerboards offer some interesting downsides compared to mini keels. This is an interesting discussion and I suggest you read another one of my articles if you want to deepen your knowledge a little.

These catamarans are some of the lightest on the market. Not many Dolphins were made, so they are relatively hard to find. However, if you want a small, lightweight boat capable of going great distances, the Dolphin 42 is an excellent choice. 

Fountaine Pajot Belize 43

The Fountaine Pajot Belize is another well-built cruising yacht. Its core is made of foam instead of balsa, which reduces the risk of structural damage due to a rotten core in case of water intrusion. 

The design of Belize offers many options for customizability, with large open spaces and a combined saloon, navigation, and dinette area. 

There are two styles of Belize catamarans for sleeping quarters. You can either purchase a boat with an entire primary suite on one hull or one with two cabins in each hull. The first option is great if you are sailing the world alone and not expecting many guests, as it increases the storage capacity. 

Understanding what factors to consider when getting a cat can be hard, there are just so many of them (such as the daggerboard discussion above), I have tried to compile some of the most important in this article .

The boat also has wraparound windows to increase the sense of space in the galley. 

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Fountaine Pajot is one of the best sailboat manufacturers existing today, as their boats are well made and highly versatile. The Lucia 40 is no exception – it’s a smaller boat but has a lot of room for moving around and on-board living. 

The living area is remarkably spacious on this catamaran for its size. 

The galley and lounge easily accommodate 6+people. The Lucia 40 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sailing either, as the narrow hulls slice through choppy waters with ease. 

Most catamarans today are built to withstand rough weather but that doesn’t matter as much if the crew isn’t up for the task, I firmly believe that the most important thing a boat should consist of, is knowledge. Therefore taking online courses ( two free here ) or reading books ( my favorites here ) is imperative.

Gemini 105M

Gemini’s boats have been on the market for years and are solidly built for cruising. This boat is one of the most popular ever made, I personally would consider something different for offshore cruising, but since it has such a good reputation, I felt I had to add it to the list.

If you want to understand why I am hesitant to take this boat around the world, I recommend you read my article: What are trampolines on a catamaran?

The Gunboat 62 is a great catamaran and set the standards for the rest of the impressive Gunboat lineup. It’s sleek and spacious while being robust and capable of transatlantic journeys. You can easily travel the world in a Gunboat 62 with several people and not feel cramped. 

The yacht was made for speed and power and remains one of the fastest catamarans on the market, even rivaling the newer Gunboat models.  GABO

Although the earlier models of the Gunboat 62 weren’t designed for a lot of cargo, you can still find space for everything you need without compromise. 

Lagoon catamarans are known for their reliability and ease of use. If you are considering a catamaran for the first time and are unsure about the technicalities of sailing, a Lagoon boat is a great option. 

The Lagoon 380 is probably the smallest cruiser on this list, which makes it better suited for solo or couple sailing.  

When I go looking to buy something, whether it be a boat, campervan, or whatever, I create a checklist and classify all the things I want either by NEED or NICE to have.

I believe the Lagoon 380 to be sub-optimal for my NEEDS, even though it does check a lot of NICE boxes, there’s a step-by-step article on the NEED and NICE method here .

There are several cabin options available on the Lagoon 380, but if you’re sailing by yourself, you can settle for three cabins and a larger galley and living space. With a smaller cockpit and broader side decks, the Lagoon 380 packs a lot of practicality and ease of sailing into a more compact catamaran. 

If you like the idea of a Lagoon boat but want a little more space, the Lagoon 42 is the upgraded version of the Lagoon 380. With all of the same benefits, it comes with more space for cabins or storage, making it one of the best-selling Lagoons of all time. 

The Lagoon 42 is also a faster cruiser built for strength. While it’s not the fastest on the market, it works well in choppy waters and windy conditions, making it great for the beginning sailor to go on a more extended trip. 

Many people have completed an around-the-world sail with this ship.

Although there is a flybridge version, I would recommend the “open” version due to several factors, some including increased windage and a higher boom. More on flybridges pros and cons here .

For stability, safety, and durability, you can’t beat the Lagoon 42. 

The Leopard 45 performs better with less storage weight because of the relatively low bridge deck clearance. If the boat is fully loaded, you could experience some wave pounding. However, the cockpit is open and airy, with devices that block the sun and provide maximum comfort while sailing. 

The Leopard 45 is an incredibly beautiful boat,   and has a strong reputation for excellent build quality!

Leopard catamarans are one of my personal favorites, as such I have written an entire article about the brand, so if you want to understand its pros and cons then here is the link . Gabo

Designed in South Africa, it features a high rear arch for extra support and very smoothly connected decks. The galley is large and open, and most Leopards offer a four-cabin plan. If you are traveling with another person, this boat is an excellent option for you! 

The Manta 42 is another classic catamaran that you can buy used (at a decent price), as it is an incredibly seaworthy vessel. While still in production, the Manta was one of the most popular catamarans on the market. 

It is still in high demand amongst circumnavigators. Buying a used Manta 42 usually means that you inherit some of the previous owner’s boat upgrades! 

The Manta 42 also made it to my list of the 9 safest catamarans on the market ( link ).

This blue water cat can be sailed by one or two people, making it ideal for liveaboard couples or long-distance shorthanded sailing. The galley is in the saloon ( instead of in one of the hulls ), making the cabins below more spacious and better equipped. 

Overall, the Manta is well equipped for sailing around the world. 

Nautitech 44

Nautitech is an excellent brand of the catamaran, with several different designs per boat. The Nautitech 44 has a unique feature, you can have it with two options for steering: twin wheels or a single wheel.

The Nautitech 44 also features a cockpit on the same level as the saloon. The door between the two is more convenient than a hatch and dramatically reduces the risk of water damage during rain pour. 

This is also the same boat that aeroyacht president Gregor owns, he has offered some great insights into Nautitech in the book Catamarans (amazon link )

Outremer 45

Outremer is famous for being one of the fastest brands of catamarans on the market. If you need speed, the Outremer 45 might be the perfect choice for you. It has a top speed of 16 knots, which is higher than almost every other catamaran of its class. 

While the Outremer 45 is known for speed, it doesn’t compromise on the quality of living. 

You can settle into life on this boat with complete peace of mind. Even as a beginning sailor, the steering is simple and easy to use, and the autopilot is top of the line, so you’ll be able to sail across the ocean in an Outremer without issue. 

Privilege Serie 5

A French-designed catamaran, the Privilege Serie 5 is one of the most comfortable 50-foot (15 m) yachts available. The unique cabin layout includes the master cabin in the boat’s center instead of in one of the hulls. 

The Privilege Serie 5 is also incredibly easy to sail, despite its larger size. 

The sails and controls lead to the helm, where the raised deck makes it easy to see all around the deck. If you want to cross the ocean with a full crew then the Privilege Serie 5 might be perfect for you! 

Seawind 1000

The Seawind 1000 is the smallest boat on this list, measuring 33 feet (10 meters) long altogether. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s not livable. If you are sailing on your own or with a partner, there is more than enough space to live in the Seawind 1000, which includes the option of a centered cabin or two hull cabins. 

Because it’s small, the Seawind 1000 is easy to handle. The mast and sails are all manufactured for extra stability and ease of use. 

Overall, the Seawind 1000 is an excellent example of a simple, safe, and seaworthy catamaran. 

Note: since this is a small catamaran it will also be more sensitive to heavy weather so trip-planning becomes even more important.

The Voyage 44 is one of the oldest cats on this list, having had its hay-day in the mid-1990s. However, this also means that a used Voyage 44 will be cheaper than a newer boat. If you can find a Voyage with previous responsible owners, you will inherit any upgrades and fixes that they’ve made on top of a very seaworthy boat. 

The Voyage 44 has more storage and space than most cruisers of its size and is known for behaving very well in choppy waters. 

This catamaran does its job well while providing adequate space for cooking, sleeping, and living aboard. 

What To Look For in a Long-Distance Cruising Catamaran

If you are planning to sail around the world, you need to be very careful about which kind of catamaran you decide to use. Many of the things you want in a boat really comes down to personal preference, so be sure you know what design preferences you want before you start shopping! 

Size and Payload

The most important thing to consider when buying a catamaran is how much space and cargo you need because the larger the boats are, the bigger the payload it can handle. Decide how long you want the ship to be and how much you’re taking with you. 

It’s vital not to overload a catamaran, this will reduce performance and increase risk of unwanted behavior in heavy seas.

Cabin Placement  

Most catamarans have options for a “Maestro” cabin placement, where one entire hull is the master suite, and the other cabins are located on the opposite hull.

Cockpit and Protection From The Weather

Is the cockpit on the boat you’re looking at covered or open? This can make a difference on the high seas, especially during rainy weather. 

The size of the ship also can affect how many people you need as a crew. If you’re traveling by yourself or with one other person, you don’t want to buy a boat that needs a larger crew. 

Buying Used? 

If you don’t want to spend the money on a brand new catamaran, I don’t blame you. Several of the ships on this list are out of production and can only be found used. However, for circumnavigation, you do want a boat of high quality to keep you safe and dry until you make it to your destination.  

When buying a suitably used catamaran, it’s essential to look at the refit history of the boat more than the year it was made. Catamarans are sturdy, and the general design has been the same for at least the past decade. 

If you find a newer, larger, cheaper boat, you should look into its history. 

Your best bet to save money while buying a catamaran will be to buy an older, probably smaller boat with an excellent refit history and no serious issues. It will still be an investment, and a sturdy used catamaran will serve you well. 

Final Thoughts

No matter which catamaran you decide to buy for your journey, you’ll be able to sail safely and comfortably. Catamarans are great yachts for long-distance sailing, and the ships on this list are the best of the best. These brands are time-tested and ready to accompany you on an adventure around the world! 

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books:  For getting started, I really like  Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication:  Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations,  check out this resource  that I made for you!

• Wikipedia: Catamaran
• Cruising World: A-Z Best Cruising Catamarans 
• Dreamy Yacht Sales: Four Best Catamarans for New Buyers
• Atlantic Cruising: Good Cat/Bad Cat
• Yachting World: Catamaran Sailing Across the Atlantic
• Boat Affair: What is a Catamaran? 
• Nautilus Sailing: Catamaran Sailing

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!

3 thoughts on “ 17 Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World ”

I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great content.

Thanks Elisabeth I really appreciate the kind words 🙂

I appreciate you sharing this blog post. Thanks Again. Cool.

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Wind gust of 60 knots reported by bridge of lions operator while a boat bounced through the mooring field and collected our sea eagle and missing our boat by feet. As we watched the sailboat get caught in the corner of the bridge and the swelled lifted and crashed the boat into our poor sea eagle and the concrete. We knew we would need to buy another dinghy. When the storm let up, I used the paddle board to see what I could salvage.

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The perfect balance between comfort and adventure!

Our brand new 35ft Deluxe Power Catamaran was custom designed for touring Na Pali Coast and was built with our guests in mind. She’s the perfect size for Na Pali; large enough to handle the seas and keep you comfortable, and small enough to fit into the various sea caves when conditions permit. She’s also the only boat in our fleet that has a marine head (a teeny tiny restroom) if a true emergency situation arises. For those seeking an adventure ride but don’t want to sacrifice comfort; this modern cutting edge vessel, won’t let you down.

Carefully select a tour below that has bullet points that agree with your priorities. In general, expect MUCH calmer seas in the morning with greater marine life encounter odds. In the afternoon, the sea state gets a lot more “exciting” with increased winds, but the pay off is seeing Na Pali Coast light up as the sun positions itself perfectly to showcase Na Pali’s beauty. Reservations in advance are a must, so don’t wait and book your tour today!

Note: This is NOT a sailboat, this is a really fun high speed “power” catamaran, ideal for Na Pali Coast.

7:00am Deluxe Catamaran “Morning Magic Tour”

• Check-in 6:30am
• Smoother seas in the morning (Earlier the better for lighter winds)
• Higher Chance of seeing dolphins & whales (whales are seasonal)
• Primarily a sight-seeing tour; will snorkel / swim if conditions allow
• All around crowd pleaser, BEST SELLER (worthing waking up early for!)

12:00pm Deluxe Catamaran “Afternoon Adventure Tour”

• Check-in 11:30am
• Our only boat that offers year-round Afternoon Adventure Tours
• Convenient departure time for those who like to sleep in
• Incredible Na Pali Coast afternoon lighting on the cliffs! (highlight)
• Windier, splashier seas; VERY fun & adventurous passengers only please!

General Information

• Chevron down What's Included

• Ice cold beverages (Variety of local juices, sodas, and water) • Na Pali Snacks • Fresh carved Hawaiian fruit • 6 Dry Bags – 1 per person. These bags seal tightly and will ensure your belongings stay dry. • All “top of the line” snorkel gear is provided on-board should conditions present a snorkel opportunity.

Please Note: Snorkeling should not be “expected” and should instead be thought of as a bonus if conditions allow.

• Chevron down What to Wear
• Don your swimsuit before boarding our watercraft (no changing on board)
• Light jackets, windbreakers, or long-sleeve shirts are recommended as temperature and weather conditions can change unexpectedly
• Footwear – (shoes not allowed onboard). This is a barefoot tour, please wear something easy to remove such as flip-flops/sandals/thongs
• Chevron down What to Bring
• Identification
• Cash tip (never expected, always appreciated, optional)
• Hat (only if snug fit)
• Sunscreen (spray-on cannot be applied on board)
• Towels (1 per person)
• Cameras – be prepared with a fully charged battery and lots of room on your memory stick (trust us!)
• Medicine – bring whatever medicine you usually depend upon during a 5-hour period
• Motion sickness pills/patch/wristbands if prone to seasickness
• Chevron down What to Know
• Choose our Deluxe Power Catamaran if you value a smoother ride but still want to get up close and personal with Na Pali Coast.
• Great as a cost efficient shared charter and even better as a private charter for either a larger group or those seeking luxury.
• Just like any of our boats, this is still an adventure tour with a fair bit of bouncing and splashing. For those reasons we can’t accept any pregnant passengers, bad backs or necks, recent surgeries, or anything that would deem a person fragile or delicate.
• The “Afternoon Adventure” is generally A LOT wilder than our morning tour on the very same day. Adventurous passengers only, please!
• If our Deluxe Power Catamarans are sold out, please check our other vessels below for availability.

Consider our other vessels for your Na Pali Coast Adventure!

Na pali rafting adventures.

Our high-speed, wet & wild rafting adventure is one of Kauai’s most exhilarating rides. Regarded by many as the Ferrari of the Na Pali Coast, this is a must do adventure for thrill seekers who are young & fit.

6 Person Power Catamaran

Enjoy the Na Pali Coast’s most intimate and personalized boat tour to date. With only 6 guests, this unique offering is unmatched industry wide. This trip is incredible as a shared tour and even better as a private charter!

• Toll-free: 877-678-7333 -or- 808-876-7777

Fast Vessels / Comfortable Tours of the Na Pali Coast

KAUAI POWERED CATAMARANS

• Powered Catamarans

CHECK OUT OTHER VESSEL TYPES: OCEAN RAFT or SAILING CATAMARAN

NIIHAU SNORKEL TOUR

See the Na Pali Coast in early morning light, then cross the channel to the Forbidden Island of Niihau where you will snorkel the back wall and underwater reef of an ancient volcanic caldera. Best tour for a variety of marine mammals too!

BLUE OCEAN ADVENTURES

This comfortable and FAST powered catamaran is an outstanding choice for snorkeling and sightseeing the Na Pali Coast. They even have an inflatable water slide for great family fun!

IMILOA EXPRESS NA PALI SNORKEL

Fun and Exciting tour of the Na Pali Coast operated by the highly rated ocean professionals at Kauai Sea Tours!

Powered catamarans give you a more comfortable ride than rafts, but also travel faster than sailing catamarans so that you can cover more ocean territory in less time. The two options on this page have different lengths, with the longer one adding a second destination. Holoholo Charters offers a Niihau Snorkel Tour which is often referred to as the "Super Tour." The morning starts early, and the vessel cruises the Na Pali Coast for sightseeing and photography. They then cross the channel to the Forbidden Island of Niihau. On the channel crossing it is common to encounter large marine mammals like pilot whales, melonhead whales, bottlenose dolphins, and humpback whales in season. Upon arrival to Niihau waters the tour snorkels at one or two select sites along the wall of a large volcnic caldera islet called "Lehua." Water clarity in this area leads to pristine snorkeling. One of the sites is the entrance of a sea cave, and the day I snorkeled here on this tour I saw a monk seals swimming with me in the entrance. The afternoon return to Kauai can be windy ... this channel crossing is the most challenging part of the trip and is not the best choice for those who are susceptible to motion sickness.

The other option here, Blue Ocean Adventures powered catamaran does a traditional Na Pali Coast snorkeling and sightseeing itinerary. It's a fun boat with a waterslide and the lunch menu is great!