If you are interested in renting a catamaran on your next vacation, there are a few things you should know. Chances are that you will have a great time enjoying the sun and the surf. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be prepared beforehand — both when it comes to the rental process and in regards to actually taking the craft out onto the waves. So what are the most important things to know about the catamaran rental process?
What is a catamaran?
First off, what is a catamaran, and what makes it different from other kinds of sailing vessels?
In the simplest possible terms, a catamaran is a boat that has two distinct hulls. The earliest prototypes were made from logs bound together and used for fishing. Nowadays, catamarans have come a long way from simple fishing vessels. But their simple and aerodynamic design makes them perfect for quick day excursions.
Some catamarans are sailboats in every sense of the word, meaning they don’t have engines. Instead, they usually rely purely on the sails to move. Other modern models are also equipped with one or two engines.
What are the advantages of sailing on a catamaran?
There are plenty of things to love about catamarans. The double hulls provide extra stability, which means that they are safe choices even on choppy seas. They are also lightweight, which means that they are incredibly fast, even gaining a reputation as racing boats.
What to know before renting a catamaran
The most important things to know before signing up for catamaran rental are:
- Plan ahead for docking
- It’s not exactly like sailing a monohull
- It’s perfect for visiting islands
Plan ahead for docking
What makes catamarans different from monohulls when it comes to docking? The answer is simple: because of the double hulls, catamarans are roughly twice as wide as the average boat. This means that they take up twice as much room at a dock. Because of this, you may need to make a plan ahead of time for what you will do when it is time to dock. You might want to ask about the possibility of reserving two spots at the dock before you set out for the day. Alternatively, you can also dock in a cove or other secluded spot to make things a bit easier.
Sailing a catamaran is unique
There are some unique aspects to sailing a catamaran, so even if you are an accomplished sailor, it’s worth reviewing before you set out. The catamaran sails efficiently by using its unique balance and shape, not its weight. Because of this, it’s an unusually lightweight craft. There are special aspects to anchoring, sailing, and rigging that are vital to know before you hit the waves.
Why a catamaran is perfect for visiting islands
There is a reason why catamarans have gained a reputation for being ideal for visiting islands. Their unique shape makes them perfect for docking in shallow water. Because of this, they have gained popularity in places like Greece, where tourists love to take catamarans from island to island over the course of an afternoon.
Renting a catamaran
There are many more reasons to look into catamaran rental during your next vacation. If you’ve never tried it before, it is a unique experience that can’t be missed.