two masted catamaran

Solstice 35m Twin Mast Cruising Catamaran

Solstice is a conceptual catamaran designed by Yacht and Superyacht designer Andrew Trujillo. The British based designer conceived the yacht as a result of conversations with a Naval Architect friend of his who was currently testing a small twin mast recreational Catamaran.

“The conversation fired my imagination and brought to mind an old university project.  I recall that at University I had designed a catamaran and quite early on I realised that the conventional central placement of masts on the majority of Catamarans, although practical for most applications, is not ideal from a structural point of view.

I have had the chance and privilege to be involved in a catamaran project with a very respected production catamaran manufacturer of late and I thought it would be fun to try something a little experimental for myself. Naturally, twin rig catamarans are not new, with many racing and performance examples available, but I thought a cruising cat would be an interesting conceptual challenge, hence Solstice….”

7 Popular Sailboats with Two Masts (With Pictures & Prices)

Sailboats can come with one, two, or even more masts. You can also have different-sized masts placed on the front, back, or middle of your vessel.

Below, I have listed popular sailboats that have two masts.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Check also: Average sailboat price examples .

Things to Know About Sailboats With Two Masts

When looking for sailboats with two masts, you should know what you are looking for. A Ketch is one type of sailboat with two masts.

Knowing this term can help you to nail down your search when looking for a boat with two masts.

These boats come in many shapes and sizes as well as many different types of designs. Generally, these types of boats have the taller mast being forward and the smaller mast near the aft.

Yawls are also boats that feature two masts.

These also come in multiple types and designs. The difference between the Ketch and the Yawl is that the Yawl has the larger mast in the aft instead of forward. They also have smaller sails and can be easier to handle.

Another type of sailing ship that features two masts is a Brigantine.

This ship has mixed sailing rigs which commonly features squared sails on the front part of the ship and triangular sails on the back of the ship.

These boats are often larger and require more people to handle them.

7 Great Used Boats with Two Masts

There are many benefits to used boats including a lower cost. You can get a larger boat for a lower cost if you choose to buy used.

When looking at used boats, you need to make sure you look at the boat and its features thoroughly to make sure everything is in great working order.

If you do not feel confident that you can properly look over a used vessel, you can even hire a marine inspector to look it over and let you know of any potential issues or needed repairs. You can use this assessment to decide what is worth it, or if the needed repairs fall into the budget.

It is much more common for a used boat to have more than one mast. This is because the newer sailboat models are creating their new designs with just one mast.

One mast ships are easier to handle and manage so new designs are trying to optimize design and ease of sailing.

Below are great used sailboats with two masts which I have arranged by price .

1. 1976 Westerly Center Cockpit Ketch

This 1976 Westerly Center Cockpit Ketch is a small 36-foot long sailboat with two masts. This is a solidly built cruising vessel that features a center cockpit ketch layout.

This boat has a small 38 horsepower engine perfectly fit to navigate its smaller size.

The interior features 1 single berth and 3 double berths all in 3 cabins. This boat also has 2 full heads onboard.

You also have a full galley with a 4 burner stove, refrigerator and freezer, stainless steel sink, and microwave oven.

This boat makes great use of limited space and offers many amenities in a much smaller frame.

Price: $37,000.00

2. 1978 Jeanneau Gin Fizz

The 1978 Jeanneau Gin Fizz is a trusted and popular two-masted design capable of crossing the Atlantic Ocean .

This boat is also very spacious for a boat that is only 38 feet in length. This model also won an award for “security, comfort, ease of handling, and ability to handle varying conditions.”

This particular used model has been well maintained and upgraded over the years.

This boat is great for family cruising, offshore passages, and even racing.

This boat features a 50 horsepower engine to help navigation.

Inside you can find 2 cabins and 1 head. You will be highly comfortable with air conditioning and other interior luxuries.

Price: $46,000.00

3. 1979 Freedom 40

The Freedom 40 is a classically designed centerboard ketch with two masts. This boat is a great sailor loaded for cruising on the wide-open blue water.

This sailboat is 40 feet in length and features accommodations for six people that include a double-v berth, another double berth, and two single berths.

There is also a full head that can be accessed both from the main salon and aft cabin.

This boat was recently painted and features newer interior fabrics, forced air heating, and much more.

You can find a dinette with separate freezer and refrigeration compartments, a stove with an oven and broiler, a double stainless steel sink, plenty of storage, and other interior features.

This boat also comes with an outboard motor with 50 horsepower and a hard bottom inflatable dinghy.

Price: $54,900.00

4. 1977 Puma 38 Ketch

The Puma 38 Ketch is a two-masted sailboat built for racing like the rest of the Puma sailing line. This brand prides itself on speed and maneuverability.

The 1977 Puma 38 is 34 feet in length with a backup diesel engine that can help you get where you need to go as well as docking into a slip. This motor features more horsepower than the average sailboat with 45 horsepower.

Features on this vessel include autopilot, electrical and manual bilge pumps, a full marine head, running hot water, and refrigerator.

This boat is made of fiberglass with teak finishes and looks well kept. You can find this boat in Spain if you are interested in purchasing it.

Price: $66,099.00

5. 1973 Morgan Out Island 41

Originally designed by Charley Morgan, the Morgan Out Island 41 is a center cockpit shoal-draft cruiser that features two masts.

This larger boat is 41 feet 3 inches in length and features many amenities.

This boat is the tri-cabin version and features interior heating, pressurized hot and cold water, a 2 burner gas oven, and a fridge.

This boat also seats up to 7 in the 3 cabins and the saloon. There are also 2 full heads on this vessel.

This boat is even equipped with an inboard motor . Inboard motors are easier when it comes to navigation including backing up, which is generally hard for sailboats to do.

Price: $68,596.00

6. 1970 Hinckley Bermuda 40

This 1970 Hinckley Bermuda 40 is a gorgeous two-masted boat painted with a mixture of desert sand and oyster white on the exterior and features a beautiful and well-kept deck.

This boat has previously had all her systems replaced and upgraded and features a 40 horsepower engine that was new in 2014.

This boat features a mahogany interior and sleeps up to 6 people in 2 cabins. You can also find a 3 burner propane stove with oven, fridge and compressor, new countertops and plenty of storage.

This boat is a stunning and highly upgraded “must-see” at a very reasonable price.

Price: $129,500.00

7. 1995 Amel Super Maramu

A newer model of sailboat is the 1995 Amel Super Maramu sailboat. This sailboat has two masts and is very long at 53 feet.

This boat features an aft deck, steps molded right into the hull, well-protected cockpit an many other features. This boat has a large 76 horsepower engine which is more than the average sailboat is equipped with.

Inside, this boat features 2 cabins and 2 heads with showers. There is also plenty of storage, air conditioning , and electric heaters. There is also a nice salon and galley with a refrigerator, dishwasher, chest freezer, microwave oven, 3 burner stove, and other appliances.

This boat is great for multiple days out on the water and is new and updated. Because of the year, this was manufactured and the features, this boat has a larger price tag than the previous models.

Price: $299,990.00

Final Thoughts:

Sailboats are a great way to enjoy a day out at sea. Most sailboat models come with sleeping arrangements and even a kitchen. This makes them ideal for trips that will take more than a day.

Having multiple masts allows you to harness the power of the wind better and can increase your speed and directional capabilities.

There are many great choices when it comes to boats with two masts, but newer models are starting to steer away from double mast designs. This does not mean that you cannot get a good boat with two masts.

Used boats can be great choices when it comes to purchasing a boat. This is even more true with large, yacht boats such as the ones listed above.

Just make sure when you buy a used sailboat you check that everything is intact and in good working order and if it is not, you have allotted space in the budget to fix what is needed.

Your new double-masted sailboat should provide you with plenty of long-lasting memories and adventures out on the water while you connect with the wind and the sea.

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New 35m twin-masted catamaran superyacht concept, Solstice

Designer Andrew Trujillo has released this 35 metre twin-masted catamaran superyacht concept, Solstice .

She follows a 45 metre concept cat produced by Trujillo called Equinox and as with that idea, features strong environmental credentials and a layout planned to provide maximum privacy and quiet for the guests, within a 21 metre beam. The starboard pontoon is dedicated solely for guests, whilst the port pontoon is for use by crew for accommodation, laundry and the galley. Solstice has been designed to carry eight guests and between seven and 14 crew.

Trujillo, based in Shrewsbury in England, was inspired by talking to a naval architect friend who was testing a small twin mast leisure cat. He said, “The conversation fired my imagination and brought to mind an old university project. I had designed a catamaran and quite early on realised that the conventional central placement of masts on the majority of catamarans, although practical for most applications, is not ideal from a structural point of view.

“I have had the chance and privilege to be involved in a catamaran project with a very respected production catamaran manufacturer of late and I thought it would be fun to try something a little experimental for myself. Naturally, twin rig catamarans are not new, with many racing and performance examples available, but I thought a cruising cat would be an interesting conceptual challenge, hence Solstice .”

The 115ft sailing superyacht is conceived to be built in aluminium or GRP, said Trujillo. He said among the benefits of having two masts was that any twin-masted boat was able to carry shorter spars than a Marconi-rigged rival. “I understand that having smaller masts confers a number of advantages, in terms of handling and from a structural point of view,” Trujillo said. “Each mast is sited on a pontoon. This means that they are mounted on very rigidly and the compression loads are channeled on a part of the vessel that has plenty of structure and strength. A further advantage is that the vessel can sail effectively with rigging on just one of the masts, so she has an element of redundancy, which can be a definite bonus on a vessel designed to be capable of long-distance and global cruising.”

Cruising speed is estimated at 25 knots and the big cat features electric pod drive units which enhance maneuverability and create more space inside the hull. Two generators create the necessary electrical power to drive the boat when not under sail and will also cover the likely heavy energy consumption of the cat with a full compliment on board. The configuration would allow the vessel to work as a hybrid and if a suitable battery bank was installed, the boat could operate as an electrically powered vessel. She would also have the potential to use the prop as a generator when under sail, boosting her environmental credentials and extending her range.

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What Is A Boat With 2 Masts Called?

Two-mast sailboats hold special places in many sailors’ hearts. In addition to being dignified and majestic, a two-mast sailboat offers a perfect balance that can be easily achieved by adjusting the masts in many different ways. Let’s look at the different types of two-mast sailboats.

Whether you’re a sailboat fanatic or an interested observer, there’s something special about two-mast sailboats. In most cases, the first thing you’ll notice about a sailboat is the two masts. Generally, the mainmast is often taller than the aft-mast, which is often referred to as the mizzenmast. The mizzenmast is like a trusted old friend. It not only helps in stabilizing the sailboat under power but can also act as a bow thruster in certain scenarios. There are many reasons why sailors sing a lot of praises as far as two-mast sailboats are concerned. In heavier winds, you can break down the main mast and use the mizzen mast to give you a more balanced and comfortable sail even in the worst of conditions. But what is a boat with 2 masts called?

There are several sailboats with two masts. The most common ones include yawl, ketch, schooner, and brig. In most cases, the designs of the masts do vary but the main idea remains the same. They can have the extra mast either behind or in front of the mainmast. If the additional mast is in front of the mainmast, it’s known as a foremast but if the additional mast is behind (aft of) the mainmast, it’s known as a mizzenmast.

Let’s take a brief look at these two-mast sailboats.

Table of contents

A yawl is one of the most common types of two-mast sailboats. It has two masts: a mizzenmast and the mainmast. The mizzenmast is usually much shorter than the mainmast. This makes it an oblique type of a sailboat in the sense that the mainmast is located in the front of the boat while the mizzenmast is located in the rear past or the boat.

The mizzenmast of a yawl is mainly used to increase the helm balance and is located aft of or behind the rudder.

It’s always easy to confuse a yawl with a ketch so it would only make sense to clear up before going any further. They both have two masts with the mainmast at the front while the mizzenmast is smaller. The difference between a ketch and a yawl comes down to the location of the mast. In a yawl, the mizzenmast is behind the rudder post while in a ketch, the mizzenmast if in front of the rudder post.

Again, the mizzenmast of a ketch is nearly as tall as the mainmast and is used to carry a mainsail. Its main function, however, is to drive the sailboat forward and can sufficiently sail the boat, especially in heavier winds. This is very different from the mizzenmast of a yawl, which is only used to increase the helm balance and cannot drive the boat forward. This means that the mizzenmast of a ketch is bigger than the mizzenmast of a yawl. In short, the mizzenmast on a ketch is technically a driving sail while the mizzenmast on a yawl is more of a balancing sail.

A ketch generally has an advantage over a sloop in downwind or in heavy winds. This is because it has a variety of setups than a typical sloop. The mizzenmast gives you a lot of options to depower in heavy winds and find the most perfect amount of canvas to fly. It can also help in stabilizing the sailboat under the power given that the mizzenmast is naturally in an excellent position.

In essence, a ketch has many practical benefits that can be ideal in most situations in the waters. In addition to sailing peacefully on a beam-reach, a ketch is easily manageable and can give you a lot of options in various weather conditions and situations.

When it comes to a two-mast schooner (a schooner can have two or more masts), the foremast is usually smaller than the aft most mast, which is essentially the mainmast. As such, the main characteristic of a schooner is that the masts are almost of the same height but the foremost mast is slightly smaller.

Even though a schooner is easier to sail than say a sloop (one-mast sailboat), it isn’t very fast. This is why most sailors prefer a sloop to a schooner but it’s a sight to behold, especially when under full sail. While a schooner with a square topsail is the most common, there are others with sprit rigs that run diagonally. Schooners with spritsails are not ideal in big seaways because the sprit rig cannot be lowered since it could become unmanageable. On the other hand, the sprit rig is ideal in coastal waters given that the topsail can catch a high up breeze. 

Like the above-mentioned two-mast sailboats, the brig has two masts with the foremost mast squared. The mainmast can be squared, partially squared or triangular. Some brig sailboats have a lateen mainsail on the mainmast. Historically, brigs were used by pirates and were set in motion using oars. Its name is derived from the Italian word “brigantine,” which loosely translates to “pirate.” These types of sailboats were used by pirates the Mediterranean in the 16th century before they became sailboats.

The two most common types of brigs are:

Brigantine – The foremost mast is usually partially squared but the mainmast is triangular.

Hermaphrodite brig – It’s also known as the schooner brig or the half brig. The two masts are partially squared but the mainmast is gaff-rigged and topsail, which technically makes it half schooner.

When it comes to speed and maneuverability, brigs are easy to handle and maneuver and perhaps that’s why they were preferred by pirates. Again, brigs are generally larger than other two-mast sailboats or single-mast sailboats.

There you have it; there are various types of two-mast sailboats, so there’s not a single name that fits all. You can choose any of them as they’ll serve you perfectly, especially in heavy wind conditions.

Bon Voyage!

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Daniel Wade

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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What Is A Boat With 2 Masts Called? (5 Options)

The mast is the tall vertical pole that supports the sails, and some sailboat designs can have one or more masts. These types of sailboats are often used for cruising and racing, and they come in a variety of designs. In this article, we'll help you easily identify the different types of boats with two masts.

Popular two-masted sailboats include:

Ketches and yawls are more stable, while schooners, brigs, and brigantines are faster and more maneuverable. Rigging configurations vary, with some having square sails on both masts, and others having fore-and-aft sails on one or both masts.

One of the most important features of a two-masted sailboat is its sail plan. A ketch has a mainsail and a mizzen sail, while a schooner has multiple sails on each mast. Let's find out the sail plan for other types of two-masted sailboats and what other features they differ from each other.

• The mainmast and mizzenmast have different functions, with the former propelling the boat forward and the latter providing balance and stability.
• If you're looking for a 2-masted sailboat that is comfortable and easy to handle, a ketch or yawl might be a good choice.
• If you're looking for a 2-masted sailboat that is fast and maneuverable, a brigantine or schooner might be your best option.
• A brig has square sails on both masts, while a brigantine has a square sail on the foremast and a fore-and-aft sail on the mainmast.

On this page:

How to recognize each sailboat, famous two-masted sailboats.

Below are the five most common types of two-masted sailboats and how you can quickly identify each:

In a two-masted sailboat, the mainmast usually carries the driving sail, which is responsible for propelling the boat forward. Meanwhile, the mizzenmast usually carries the balancing sail, which helps to balance the boat and keep it stable in different wind conditions.

Some sailboats are designed for speed, while others prioritize maneuverability and ease of handling. If you're looking for a sailboat that is comfortable and easy to handle, a ketch or yawl might be a good choice. These sailboats are generally more stable and easier to handle than other types of sailboats.

If you're looking for a sailboat that is fast and maneuverable, a brigantine or schooner might be a good choice . These sailboats are generally more difficult to handle than other types of sailboats, but they offer a thrilling sailing experience.

You can read more on two-masted sailboats in this article.

How to recognize a ketch:

• a medium-sized sailboat (30 ft and up) with two masts
• a smaller mast in back
• a taller mast in front
• both masts have mainsails
• sails are fore-and-aft rigged

Sail design of a ketch

A ketch has two masts, with a taller mizzenmast located more towards the middle of the boat and behind the main mast. You can identify a ketch through this article.

The sail design of a ketch allows for more sail area options and versatility in different wind conditions.

The two masts allow for a variety of sail configurations that can be adjusted depending on the wind conditions, making the ketch more versatile and adaptable in different sailing conditions.

Performance and maneuverability of a ketch

A ketch can be efficient and fast, especially when sailing downwind, due to the mizzen mast helping to balance the boat and reduce load on the main sail. The smaller size of the mizzen sail can be useful in strong winds, providing a smaller area of sail to catch the wind.

Maneuvering a ketch can be challenging due to more lines and rigging, but skilled sailors can learn to handle it with practice.

Rigging configuration of a ketch

The rigging configuration of a ketch allows for more control over sail trim and balance, with the main sail attached to the main mast and the smaller mizzen sail attached to the mizzen mast. The sails can be adjusted independently of each other, allowing for versatility in different sailing conditions. The mizzen sail can be used to balance the boat and keep it on course in light winds, or reduce the load on the main sail in stronger winds.

The ketch rig also allows for finer control over the shape of the sails, with the mizzen sail used to adjust the angle of attack of the main sail and balance the boat when sailing close to the wind.

How to recognize a schooner:

• a sailboat with mostly two masts
• a smaller mast in front
• a taller mast in the back
• mainsails have gaff-rigging (spar on top of the sail)

Sail design of a schooner

A schooner is a two-masted sailboat with the mainmast taller than the foremast, and triangular-shaped sails. The sails on the forward mast are smaller than those on the aft mast. Here's how to recognize a schooner .

Schooners can be sailed with a smaller crew due to the ease of adjusting the sails, and are often used for racing due to their speed and agility.

Schooners can also be used for cruising, but are less maneuverable than yawls and ketches due to their size.

Performance and maneuverability of a schooner

A schooner can be fast, especially in light winds, and its rigging configuration allows it to sail close to the wind, making it a good choice for long-distance cruising.

Schooners can cover a lot of ground quickly due to their ability to sail at a greater angle to the wind than some other types of sailboats.

Maneuvering a schooner can be relatively easy with a skilled crew, as the sails can be adjusted quickly and easily, allowing for easier turning and maneuvering than some other types of sailboats.

Rigging configuration of a schooner

The rigging configuration of a schooner allows for a greater variety of sail configurations due to the two masts and different sizes of the sails on each mast. This allows for versatility in different wind conditions, with the sails set up in different ways to catch more wind or provide more power.

Schooners can sail faster and more efficiently in light winds due to the ability to adjust the sails on each mast. In stronger winds, the sails can be adjusted to reduce sail area and prevent the boat from being overpowered, through reefing or changing the sail configuration.

How to recognize a yawl:

• a sailboat with two masts
• a main mast in front
• a much smaller mast in the back
• back mast doesn't carry a mainsail

Sail design of a yawl

A yawl is a two-masted sailboat with a shorter mizzenmast located behind the mainmast, usually behind the rudder post. The smaller mizzen sail on the aft mast can be used to balance the boat and provide additional power in light winds, while the larger mainsail on the main mast can be used for more power in stronger winds.

The advantage of a yawl is that it allows for more flexibility in sail handling.

Performance and maneuverability of a yawl

A yawl can be slower than other types of sailboats due to the additional weight of the second mast and rigging, but can be more stable and easier to handle in rough seas.

Yawls are a popular choice for cruising and long-distance sailing due to their stability.

Yawls can be easily maneuvered even with a small but skilled crew, making them suitable for cruising.

Rigging configuration of a yawl

The rigging configuration of a yawl provides several advantages, including:

• Balance : The smaller mizzen sail on the aft mast helps to balance the boat and reduce weather helm (the tendency of the boat to turn into the wind). This makes the boat easier to steer and more comfortable to sail.
• Flexibility : The smaller mizzen sail can be used to help control the boat in a variety of wind conditions, while the larger mainsail on the main mast provides more power in stronger winds.
• Safety : The mizzen sail on the aft mast can be used as a backup sail in case the main sail on the main mast is damaged or needs to be taken down. This provides an added level of safety and security when sailing offshore or in rough conditions.
• Ease of handling : The smaller mizzen sail on the aft mast can be used to help turn the boat quickly and with more control, making it easier to navigate in tight spaces or tricky conditions.

How to recognize a brig:

• a square-rigged foremast
• a mainmast that is either square-rigged or square-rigged and gaff-rigged

Sail design of a brig

A brig is a two-masted sailboat with square sails on both masts. The square sails are used to generate driving force when sailing downwind and are typically made of heavy canvas or durable materials. The sails are attached to the masts and yards using a series of ropes and lines known as the rigging.

The square sails on a brig are divided into smaller sections known as "panels," which can be adjusted individually to suit changing wind conditions.

Brig may also have one or more triangular-shaped fore-and-aft sails attached to the foremast, which can be adjusted using running rigging. Here's how to identify a brig.

Performance and maneuverability of a brig

The square-rigged sails of a brig allow it to sail closer to the wind than other types of sailing vessels, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and change direction quickly. This makes a brig ideal for naval warfare and piracy, where speed and maneuverability are essential for success.

The design of a brig allows for a smaller crew than other types of ships of similar size, which can make it easier to operate and maintain. Fewer crew members also means less weight and less space taken up by supplies and equipment, contributing to the ship's speed and maneuverability.

Rigging configuration of a brig

The rigging configuration of a brig typically includes square sails on both masts, which provide significant driving force when sailing downwind. However, this type of rig can be less effective when sailing upwind, as the sails are not as efficient at generating lift as a triangular sail.

One advantage of the brig's rigging configuration is that the square sails can be adjusted individually to suit changing wind conditions. The fore-and-aft sails can be used to fine-tune the vessel's speed and direction.

How to recognize a brigantine:

• a two-masted sailboat that is similar to a brig, but with a different rigging configuration
• a sailboat with a square-rigged foremast and a fore-and-aft rigged mainmast
• mainmast is typically taller than the foremast
• sails on the mainmast are fore-and-aft rigged, while the sails on the foremast are square-rigged

Sail design of a brigantine

A brigantine is a two-masted sailboat with square sails on the foremast and fore-and-aft sails on the mainmast. This configuration allows for a greater range of sail plan options. The square sails on the foremast can be used to drive the ship forward in strong winds, while the fore-and-aft sails on the mainmast can be used to maneuver the ship in more moderate winds.

Brigantines were used as cargo ships in the past and are still used for training and educational purposes.

Rigging configuration of a brigantine

The rigging configuration of a brigantine is complex, with multiple lines and cables used to control the sails and masts. The foremast typically has a topmast and a topgallant mast, while the mainmast may have a gaff and a boom to support the fore-and-aft sails. The rigging system includes shrouds, stays, and other lines that help stabilize the masts and sails and control their movement.

Performance and maneuverability of a brigantine

The combination of square and fore-and-aft sails allows for a greater range of sail plan options, which can help the ship maintain speed and maneuverability in different wind conditions.

However, the larger size and weight of the brigantine can make it more difficult to maneuver quickly or make sudden changes in direction, particularly in light winds.

For a better grasp of what each of these two-masted boats looks like , this article contains complete illustrations and pictures.

Here are some of the most popular two-masted sailboats that you might know:

The sloop-rigged Hinckley Bermuda 40

The Hinckley Bermuda 40 is a classic sailboat that has been around since the 1960s. This boat is known for its beautiful lines, excellent handling, and comfortable interior.

The Bermuda 40 is a yawl-rigged sailboat, which means it has two masts, a mainmast, and a smaller mast called a mizzenmast. The mainmast is located forward, while the mizzenmast is aft. This arrangement allows for better balance and maneuverability, especially in heavy weather.

The ketch-rigged Amel Super Maramu

The Amel Super Maramu is a luxurious sailboat that is designed for long-distance cruising. This boat is known for its innovative features, such as an electric furling system, a hydraulic bow thruster, and a self-tacking jib.

The Super Maramu is a ketch-rigged sailboat, which means it has two masts, a taller mainmast, and a shorter mizzenmast. The mainmast is located forward, while the mizzenmast is aft. This configuration allows for better sail balance, especially when sailing downwind.

The ketch-rigged Westsail 42

The ketch-rigged Westsail 42 is a popular cruising sailboat that was designed by William Crealock in the 1970s. This boat is known for its sturdy construction and seaworthiness, making it a popular choice for long-distance cruising.

The ketch rig is known for being versatile and easy to handle, as it allows for a variety of sail combinations to be used depending on the wind conditions. It also allows for a versatile sail plan that can be easily adjusted to suit a wide range of wind conditions.

The schooner-rigged Bluenose II

The schooner-rigged Bluenose II is a replica of the original Bluenose, a famous Canadian racing schooner. The Bluenose II was built in 1963 and is used primarily as a tourist attraction and sail training vessel.

The schooner rig features two masts, with the forward mast being taller than the aft mast. This rig allows for a large sail area and a high degree of maneuverability, making it well-suited for racing and coastal cruising.

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You may also like, how much does a sailboat mast replacement cost.

Now I won't ask why you are researching mast replacement - the story behind it is probably tragic and I don't wanna cry as I do whenever I see an injured sailboat. …

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Andrew Trujillo’s Twin Mast Cruising Catamaran Concept Called Solstice

By Brody Patterson

Updated on August 31, 2017

UK-based yacht designer Andrew Trujillo presents his 35-meter (115 feet) twin mast cruising catamaran concept called Solstice .

The luxurious vessel is quite spacious for something of its size, though the overall setup was designed to provide as much tranquility and privacy as possible for those on board. Up to 8 guests can be accommodated in the two double VIP cabins, twin cabin, and Master suite. There’s also enough room for between 7 and 14 crew members.

The main salon is a sizeable space intended for formal dining, with seating for up to 14 people, with a buffet area and partly shielded pantry close by. Moving outside, the starboard side and part of the center feature an extensive lounge area, as well as more private seating space, a library, and card tables. In another nice touch, the space aft of the dining area has been designed to have either a grand piano or a large billiards/snooker table.

While Solstice is indeed only a concept and there’s no guarantee she will ever hit the waves, it’s nice to see designers always coming up with new intriguing and innovative creations. If not all, at least some of these features will surely make it into some of the great superyachts of the future.

[Charterworld]

About Brody Patterson

Brody has worked as a full time staff writer for Luxatic for over five years, covering luxury news, product releases and in-depth reviews, and specializing in verticals on the website alongside the tech & leisure section, as well as men's fashion, watches and travel. Learn more about Luxatic's Editorial Process .

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best catamaran and multihull: We sail the very best yachts on two and three hulls

• Toby Hodges
• March 20, 2024

Toby Hodges takes a look at all the nominees and the winner of the best catamaran and multihull category in the much-anticipated European Yacht of the Year Awards

There are many categories in the  European Yacht of the Year  awards, from the best  luxury yachts  and  performance yachts  to the  best yachts for families  and event a  best specialist yacht category. But with multihulls rapidly increasing in popularity, the best catamaran and multihull category was possibly the most hotly anticipated.

The small number of entrants in this category in no way reflects the rich range or huge demand for multihulls. Many new models were launched by the big yards in the preceding years and they’re struggling to keep up with bulging order books.

However, these three shortlisted represented a choice pick of the latest fast cruisers and each, in their own very different ways, are responding to this insatiable demand for high end space and pace cruising.

Best catamaran and multihull

Best catamaran and multihull winner 2024 – outremer 52.

My highlight test of 2023? Sailing this Outremer 52 for 200 miles over two days and nights! Quite how such a large vessel, one that is capable of doing laps of the planet in true comfort, is also capable of providing such enjoyable sailing is the secret sauce that helps scoop this prize.

And it was pushed hard for this award by the disruptive HH. But the Outremer is such a well rounded, measured and thought out yacht for bluewater cruising at a reliable speed – it’s the full package, a dream boat for family bluewater sailing and arguably the French yard’s best and most refined model to date.

Designer VPLP was tasked with replacing the popular and well proven 51 with more comfort and stowage, while maintaining the performance. It says it took the best of the 55 (which won this award two years ago), and the best of the 51’s deck plan to create this 52. The result means too many good features to point out here, from the variety of helm positions, including a completely protected position inboard using the swing pedestal, to the well conceived spaces. I’d therefore recommend reading our full test report online or in YW’s June 2023 issue!

Neel continues to enjoy its cruising trimaran niche, using the wow factor of bridgedeck accommodation combined with the type of sailing enjoyment and feedback monohull sailors appreciate.

The impressive lightwind performance and direct feel of a Neel I am used to. But I don’t think I’ve ever been so surprised by the amount of cabins or space as I was on this 52. It’s available with four to six cabins plus the option for two crew cabins aft! Some of this maze works well, other areas, such as the forward cabins in the main hull not quite so well. Horizon and rig sightlines and some finishing also leaves room for improvement.

The HH44 seemingly manages to achieve the space and pace balance in a compact 45ft package, while also being one of the most innovative and exciting new production yachts I have sailed. From its looks to layout, to practical on deck solutions such as swing pedestals, side gates through the bulwarks and transom gates that double as swim platforms and boost cockpit security, it’s packed with fresh thinking.

And on the subject of ‘fresh’, the natural ventilation encouraged into the yacht through those massive forward facing coachroof windows which open – a feat made possible thanks to a stiff carbon composite structure – negates any aircon requirements.

With its deep carbon boards and tall carbon rig the HH44 is a powerful, reactive animal to sail. However, it’s the incorporation of the first parallel hybrid electric drive units which really makes this high tech high performance cat stand out. The electric motors are attached to the aft end of conventional diesel engines, not only providing silent power, but renewable energy through regenerative drives while sailing.

Best catamaran and multihull 2023

Best catamaran winner – nautitech 44.

If the very best catamaran delivers the ideal comfort to performance compromise, here’s a catamaran that seems to strike the perfect balance.

For those who cite a lack of visibility and protection as reasons not to choose this aft helm route, try sailing this first – direct steering brings so much more helming pleasure that you get the enjoyable feeling and communication more associated with a monohull. The attention to keeping weight low and central, vacuum infused vinylester build and a low coachroof and boom all aid this performance. The fine entry Lombard-designed hulls allowed us to properly point upwind at 8 knots (in 13), but it was the hands-on steering sensation that really stayed with me.

While there’s no real inside/outside boundary – the saloon bridges both – the Chedal-Anglay interior design works well. It is not as voluminous as some, but is certainly enough to be smugly comfortable at anchor, finished to a good quality, with walnut Alpi trim as standard. The layout option for a ‘smart room’ office/laundry/bunk room or stowage cabin is indeed really smart.

Out of all the multihulls nominated or sailed last year, this cat impressed me the most under sail. It’s the ideal size to go distance sailing, with good performance, low draught and space for family and friends. It had me dreaming.

Balance 482

I was drawn to the Balance 482, thanks to the combination of good looking modern design, high average speeds and, chiefly, the profusion of clever thinking and practical ideas that it brings. The South African build uses a foam core with E-glass laminate and cored furniture for a light weight of 11.3 tonnes, but also with the ability to take a generous payload.

An electric furler option combined with screecher sail helps offer effortless handling and fun sailing, although the 482 prefers a breeze in the double figures. Smart options such as load cells on the rigging, a bowsprit camera to monitor the anchor chain, plus engine room and mast cams all help for maintaining vigilance. Other features we like include the solar panels properly installed on raised brackets, raincatchers built into the coachroof, and how all sheets and lines are led to the helm station. But the prize solution is the VersaHelm, which allows you to swing the wheel inboard, close off the helm station, and stand watch and steer from a fully protected position.

Catana Ocean Class

The Catana Ocean Class is a bulky model which is geared more towards creature comforts than the higher performance of its predecessors. That said, it uses carbon in the structure and roof, foam cored furniture, the tanks are mounted low in the hulls and it has daggerboards and fine entry bows. The weight savings help it offer a massive 5.5 tonne cruising payload, plus there’s capacious stowage and large tank, refrigeration and laundry capacity.

Positioned between Lagoon and Outremer, the Catana echoes a bit of its sister brand Bali’s concept with its internal cockpit-cum-saloon layout while providing good ventilation via large sliding doors and opening windows. We liked how it’s easy to handle solo from one helm station, including the electric remote control of the boards, plus the layout of the galley and navstation.

Those chasing speed and helming pleasure should perhaps look to the C-Cat 48, as it’s as close to helming a fast monohull as a cruising cat is likely to get and one of the rare times we enjoyed sailing upwind in light breezes on a multihull! This is largely thanks to a lightweight, stiff build – the Comar yard has managed to save 1.7 tonnes over the first boat (9.5 tonnes light) and increased the draught of the curved daggerboards to 2.95m.

A carbon roof and rig comes as standard, as well as an epoxy hull, full carbon deck, bulkheads and compression beam. It is a little quirky with comparatively small volumes, but this François Perus design will outperform most other performance cats and monohulls of a similar length.

The Excess 14 shares that direct sensation you get from aft helms and some of the performance of the C-Cat, but in a more balanced, voluminous layout for cruising. The Excess 14 benefits from the research of VPLP’s Vannes racing office, where attention was focused on weight reduction, with savings particularly in furniture, on improved stiffness (PET foam cored sandwich for main structural bulkheads), and the efficiency of deeper fixed keels.

The result is telling on the water, as it should be for any best catamaran contender, where you can log easy miles: we clocked late 7s upwind, reached in the late 8s and regularly averaged 9 knots with gennaker in 12-15 knots. Clear glass windows give acceptable visibility from the helms through the coachroof and the comparatively minimalist interior. In short it offers a good mix of volume, reasonable performance and enjoyable sailing – see our full review last month.

Sailing performance was another key facet in the battle of the big cats from the big cat yards, Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot. Both models offer luxurious amounts of space for home from home comfort, as watersports bases for long term cruising.

The decision to push the mast to the front of the coachroof to allow for a larger genoa than its recent preference for self-tacking jibs has paid off on the Lagoon 51. It helped us sail efficiently into the waves (albeit not pointing too high) before clocking double figures reaching with the code sail in 15 knots.

The Lagoon’s large flybridge with dual access is a USP at this size that will be a hit or miss deal breaker for many. The 51 offers unrivalled accommodation volume in three, four or six cabins, and relaxation zones, and good circulation through these big spaces. Once again the jury applauds Lagoon for thoroughly testing the prototype model during a six month tour. Over 100 have already sold.

We saw in our December issue how the experienced owners of the Fountaine Pajot test boat choose to live and work full time aboard their Aura 51. It’s a design that promotes space, enough to take friends, family and crucially for them, all the toys to enjoy at anchor. Its capability of averaging 8-10 knots also appeals, although the single side helm and hydraulic steering result in scant connection to the sailing in light winds (the same applies to the Lagoon).

The fact the yard already offers this in a hybrid version and has an electric and hydrogen model in the pipeline could sway some, but the decision between the FP and the Lagoon will likely come down to preference between a central flybridge or offset bulkhead helm together with interior design and layout.

If you enjoyed this….

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» Boats for Sale

» boat builders, » boating events, new 35m twin-masted catamaran concept, designer andrew trujillo has released this 35 metre twin-masted catamaran superyacht concept, solstice. designer andrew trujillo has explored the concept of an environmentally conscious twin-masted 35m catamaran. she follows a 45 metre concept cat produced by trujillo called equinox and as with that idea, features strong environmental credentials and a layout planned to provide maximum privacy and quiet for the guests, within a 21 metre beam. the starboard pontoon is dedicated solely for guests, whilst the port pontoon is for use by crew for accommodation, laundry and the galley. solstice has been designed to carry eight guests and between seven and 14 crew. trujillo, based in shrewsbury in england, was inspired by talking to a naval architect friend who was testing a small twin mast leisure cat. he said, the conversation fired my imagination and brought to mind an old university project. i had designed a catamaran and quite early on realised that the conventional central placement of masts on the majority of catamarans, although practical for most applications, is not ideal from a structural point of view. i have had the chance and privilege to be involved in a catamaran project with a very respected production catamaran manufacturer of late and i thought it would be fun to try something a little experimental for myself. naturally, twin rig catamarans are not new, with many racing and performance examples available, but i thought a cruising cat would be an interesting conceptual challenge, hence solstice. the 115ft sailing superyacht is conceived to be built in aluminium or grp, said trujillo. he said among the benefits of having two masts was that any twin-masted boat was able to carry shorter spars than a marconi-rigged rival. i understand that having smaller masts confers a number of advantages, in terms of handling and from a structural point of view, trujillo said. each mast is sited on a pontoon. this means that they are mounted on very rigidly and the compression loads are channeled on a part of the vessel that has plenty of structure and strength. a further advantage is that the vessel can sail effectively with rigging on just one of the masts, so she has an element of redundancy, which can be a definite bonus on a vessel designed to be capable of long-distance and global cruising. cruising speed is estimated at 25 knots and the big cat features electric pod drive units which enhance maneuverability and create more space inside the hull. two generators create the necessary electrical power to drive the boat when not under sail and will also cover the likely heavy energy consumption of the cat with a full compliment on board. the configuration would allow the vessel to work as a hybrid and if a suitable battery bank was installed, the boat could operate as an electrically powered vessel. she would also have the potential to use the prop as a generator when under sail, boosting her environmental credentials and extending her range..

DOUCE FRANCE

Douce France is equipped for charter worldwide, discovering the most beautiful locations whilst offering the highest standards of yachting. Guests appreciate her spaciousness and intimacy, her elegance and fine stance on the water. At 42.2 metres she is the largest schooner sailing catamaran in the world. The aft deck is an exquisite sunbathing area and lends itself to cherish a perfect ocean sunset. Her trampolines offer room for guests to sprawl out on and feel the sea spray as she glides along. A total of twelve guests may be accommodated in the six-air-conditioned staterooms, each of them attractively lined with pale sycamore wood. Each spacious room offers the option of either a queen double of twin single bed arrangement and also leaves sufficient room for a convertible desk or dressing table. Each stateroom has its own en-suite shower with a separate head compartment. Douce France has all the requirements for a perfect holiday in secluded locations with a high standard of service and a welcoming crew.

Special Features :

- Largest schooner sailing catamaran in the world - Great Deck Space - Diving Facilities on Board - Exclusive Locations - Worldwide Experienced Crew - Captain Pascal (on board since 2006) - 6 Convertible Cabins - Great for Large Families

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DOUCE FRANCE: Relocation

The perfect charter yacht featuring high standards of service and a professional crew, DOUCE FRANCE is the largest schooner sailing catamaran in the world. While featuring elegance on the water, she also provides spaciousness and intimacy to her guests on board. DOUCE FRANCE offers...

DOUCE FRANCE : Special Offer September

Offering the highest standards of yachting, DOUCE FRANCE is the largest schooner sailing catamaran in the world. She was designed by famous naval architects Van Peteghem & Lauriot and constructed in 1998, but highly maintained in both interiors and exteriors. DOUCE FRANCE gives guests...

DOUCE FRANCE : New Listing

DOUCE FRANCE is equipped for crewed cruises, this magnificent catamaran welcomes you in the greatest comfort while discovering the most beautiful places. The catamaran has 6 luxurious cabins to welcome up to 12 guests on board. Do not hesitate to contact us if you want more information...

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What Type of Sailboat is This?

By: Zeke Quezada, ASA Equipment , Sailboats

While sailing in the Sir Francis Drake Channel in the British Virgin Islands I noticed a peculiar catamaran heading in our direction. A two-masted catamaran. Have you seen a boat like this? Does it have a name?

How often do you see a sailboat and realize that it has a different sail plan or configuration and most likely has a different name?  

This guide to sailboats should help you identify the types of sailboats you might encounter while on your cruising adventures.

You’ll be able to find even more info on these different type of sailboats in our series “What’s in a Rig.”  

What type of a boat is this…?

A sloop rig is a boat with a single mast and a fore and aft sail configuration. Sloops date back to the early 17th century but didn’t really become popular until the 20th century. The likely reason for their popularity is their ability to efficiently head upwind and how relatively simple they are to control – great for short-handing.

Cutter Rig:

A variation on the Sloop is the Cutter Rig. Although it has gone through some changes through the course of history, the modern cutter rig is generally a set-up with two headsails. The forward sail is called the Yankee, and the one slightly behind it is the staysail.

There are many who feel that this very old but very innovative sail plan is superior to the more popular and ubiquitous sloop rig and others. The junk is predicated upon fully battened sails, a characteristic associated with more modern racing vessels, and they typically lack any standing rigging (stays and shrouds). Due to the full batten set-up, the sails maintain an efficient, consistent shape and are fast, especially downwind. In a big breeze, junk owners will attest that they’re extremely easy to reef and, as an added bonus, are inherently self-tacking.

They are two masted rigs with a main mast and a (smaller) mizzenmast that is set in front of the rudder post – they carry a jib just like a sloop. Generally, ketches will be in the 40-plus foot range. The reasoning for this is that before sailing hardware was as advanced as it is now, designers were looking for ways to carry a good amount of sail but make it manageable at the same time. This configuration served that purpose and, while doing so, also gave sailors quite a few options for various weather conditions and situations.

Like, the ketch, a yawl is equipped with two masts, a main and a mizzen, but ordinarily, on a yawl, the mast is smaller and set behind the rudder post. While some yawl sailors contest the small sail configuration that hangs over the stern as an aid to heaving to and steadying life at a mooring, most concede the mizzen on a yawl is not what it is on a ketch. Typically, it doesn’t provide any horsepower to speak of or ease-of-handling benefits in splitting the rig like a ketch or schooner might.

A gaff rig employs a spar on the top of the sail, and typically other sails can be set in conjunction with that mainsail with the gaff. Often, on the smaller, non-tall ship, gaff rigs, there will be a small triangular sail that fits between the main and the mast like a puzzle piece – this is the topsail.

A cat rig is a single mast situated well forward, near the bow, which carries a large single sail and has no standing rigging, sometimes referred to as “unstayed.” An Optimist, Laser or Sabot are common (smaller) examples of a cat rig, but many bigger boats utilize the set-up.

A schooner is a sailboat with at least two masts, with the forward mast (foremast) being a bit shorter than the main mast. Although a schooner can have more than two masts, most were just two. During the time of their popularity, this smaller and better upwind setup allowed for a more efficient and manageable sailboat. It was the preferred choice of pirates, privateers, slaveship captains and others.

So what type of boat is this? Let us know. Find us on Social media and share your thoughts @AmericanSailing

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What’s a Boat with Two Masts Called: Two masted sailing boat types

Two-masted sailing boats will always have a special place in the hearts of many sailors. Many sailors consider two-masted sailing boats to be the most attractive and graceful of all sailing vessels. They have an obvious elegance, but what do you know about these two masted sailboats? Let’s find out!

Among the most important aspects are the fact that two-masted sailing boats offer greater sail balance, engineless sailing and more heavy weather options.

Even if the two masted sailboats are not so common, the sailing world has a few of them and what is more, they represent a proof of the evolution and improvement of sailing boats over time. There are an almost endless number of ways sailors have arranged their sails on boats over the years.

Two-masted sailing boats are classified according to the size and position of their masts.

There are different two-masted sailing boat types and two of the most popular are schooners and yawls.

The origins of schooner-rigged vessels are unknown, however there is evidence of them in paintings by Dutch maritime painters dating back to the early 17th century.

Schooners were developed by Northern European countries, while yawls are believed to be descended from the fishing boats of England.

Sailboats with two masts include yawls, ketches, schooners and brigs (known as brigantines). Yawls and ketches are both types of sloops, which means they have one mast, but the difference between them is that the yawl has a second mast stepped at the bow.

Ketches and Yawls have a lower mast, unlike schooners that have a taller aft mast, which is also known as mizzen. Ketch sailing boats have something specific: the aft mast is  located in front of the rudder post.

The yawl’s mizzenmast serves as a counterbalance for the jib sails, so that it doesn’t have to be hung from the forestay (the rope running from the top of the mast down to the deck). They’re usually smaller than ketches and have less rigging because they don’t carry as many sails as a sloop with two masts.

Yawls are faster sailboats than schooners because they’re lighter, more balanced and easier to sail upwind. They can also go faster because their shorter sails catch more wind. But schooners have larger payloads, which means more people or cargo — an important consideration for long trips without resupply.

Schooners are two-masted sailing boats, but instead of having a jib sail like yawls, ketches and most sloops, schooners have a fore-and-aft spanker sail like a gaff sailboat. These two-masted sailboats have at least two masts, the foremast being slightly shorter than the main mast.

Schooners are larger than yawls, ketches and other sloops and weren’t used very much in modern times because they were more difficult to handle. They’re still used in racing competitions today.

Schooners have a longer bow portion than yawls. The mainsail is aft of the mast, and either one or two foresails are in front of it. In a schooner, these are triangular sails; in a yawl, they’re trapezoidal. Yawls have bowsprits — poles that extend beyond the bow for the jib and stay sail to be attached. Schooners have small bowsprits that can support jibs but not large sails.

The term ketch derives from the word catch, which hints to how it got its name in the 17th century. Ketches were initially intended to meet the specific requirements of offshore net fishing.

Ketch is a type of sailboat that features two masts and two sails, commonly used as a racing and cruising boat. The mainmast of this two-masted sailboat is typically taller than the mizzen mast (aft-mast). Its name derives from catch.

Taller masts allow you to use larger sails, so ketch boats are able to achieve better speeds than similar boats with only one mast. Some ketch designs feature a gaff rig, which is similar to a yawl, while others feature a yawl rig, which looks like a traditional sloop.

Ketch boats may look easy to sail but the slightest mistake can lead to disaster. You must be careful when operating this type of boat because it does not have as much stability as other boats, especially when you’re manoeuvring in tight quarters or windy conditions.

A ketch may also be a small recreational boat with only one head-sail in use. Many modern designs have moved away from sail altogether and are powered by engine, while others use both sails as well as engines depending on circumstance.

The brigantine was once a tiny ship that carried both oars and sails. It was a favorite of Mediterranean pirates.

A brigantine is a square-rigged sailing boat with two masts, with a fully square-rigged foremast and two sails on the mainmast.

The mainmast is stepped forward of the deck, making it possible to sail into the wind using a triangular headsail known as a jib. The brig’s foremast is shorter than the mainmast.

The name of this type of boat with 2 masts is derived from the Italian word “brigantino”, which means brigand.

Also, this two-masted sailing boat type was most commonly used for coastal trade and pirate hunting. The brigantine had an advantage over other ships of the time because it could sail against the wind using both sails, making it easier to travel against strong winds.

Faster and easier to manoeuvre than a sloop or schooner, it was used for piracy and espionage.

FAQ: Two-Masted Sailboats

What do you call a two-masted sailboat.

Two-masted sailboats are of several types: yawls, schooners, ketches or brigantines.

Why do some sailboats have two masts?

The vast majority of sailboats feature a mainsail and a jib. These two-masted sailboats provide several advantages in terms of speed and maneuverability. These two masts may be configured in a variety of ways.

The foresail directs air beyond the back of the mainsail, generating greater power from the wind. In order to help menouvering, the foresail can be backed. So, adding sails makes things simpler for bigger boats, making them easier to handle in heavy winds.

What is the difference between a ketch and a yawl sailboat?

Because they are lighter, more balanced, and easier to sail upwind, yawls are faster sailboats than schooners. They can also go at a faster speed since their shorter sails collect more wind. Schooners, on the other hand, have higher cargoes, which means more people or freight – a crucial consideration for extended journeys without replenishing.

What is a one masted sailboat?

It's a sailing boat having a single mast roughly one-third the length's aft of the bow. A sailboat with a single mast usually has one headsail in front of the mast and one mainsail behind the mast.

What is a two-masted square rigger?

It's a brig with two square-rigged masts. A gaff-rigged fore-and-aft sail also called a "mizzen" is used in addition to jibs and staysails (stays'ls) before the foremast and staysails between the masts.

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Jordan Yacht Brokerage

We Never Underestimate Your Dreams

Tropic rover, two masted 145-foot gaff rigged catamaran.

One time largest sailing catamaran in the world was built in Fort Lauderdale from 1961 to 1962. Much different than the catamarans these days .

Are the boat building glory days of Fort Lauderdale past? Talking to Bixby Hill reminisce makes you wonder what has happened. Bix invited me to his home across from LMC and told stories of building boats on the New River during the 1950’s and 1960’s. The east and west banks downriver from I-95 have a rich tradition and colorful history of large yacht construction that makes you question if the mega yachts that populate our city today are really that advanced. In the 1950’s, Bix worked at Dooley’s Yacht Basin, what is now the east yard of Lauderdale Marine Center. There they built 140-foot minesweepers and exported them to the Netherlands to clear WWII mines from the North Sea. Equally busy yard hands on the north side built famous yachts such as the Prospector and Starlite and provided dockage for others such as the 115-foot motor yacht, Arethusa.

This was where, Bixby Hill says, they built the Tropic Rover from 1961 to 1962. She was a 145-foot gaff rigged schooner and the largest sailing catamaran in the world ever built to that point. For some perspective, that is 31-feet longer than the 114-foot trimaran winner of the 33rd America’s cup by BMW Oracle. Sidney Hartshorne, a long time Shady Banks resident, designed and commissioned the project. They leased the woodland from Summerfield Boat Works on the north side of the river across from Dooley’s. They actually had to clear the trees and shrubbery. The clearing was just west of the sheds than once lined the north bank of the final stretch of the New River. Below are excerpts from my November 6, 2010 interview with Bix at his home in Starlite Landing:

RJ: When did you arrive in Fort Lauderdale? BH: During WWII I was stationed at the Coast Guard base in Miami. Bahia Mar was originally a US Coast Guard base too. I traveled up and down the coast on patrol and came to know the area. In 1950, I owned four lots across from the Hortt School in Shady Banks. George Gill came along one day and said he needed those lots for his subdivision. He was building homes in the area and dredging the two canals that run north and south. So I traded my four lots for this property here with a nice new seawall. After the war, I worked as a foreman at Dooley’s building 116′ and 136′ minesweepers and exporting them to the Netherlands to clean mines left over from WWII in the North Sea. They had to be wood to avoid setting off the mines.

RJ: What was the area like back then? BH: The original access road was from Davie Boulevard to Cypress Landing which is along the eastside where 15th Ave is separated by a median. That was where the Prospector was built for Jack Collison. Then the access road came on a diagonal through the middle of the room where we are right now to Starlite Landing and where Gil Sayward built the Starlite. Later they made 19th Ave which came in straight from Davie Boulevard which was convenient for me. Now they have blocked that off. All the houses you see now were built in the late 1950’s and 1960’s. If you look at my property here you see how quickly the shrubbery grows and what it looked like back them. You can see all the piles we have cut down recently. After the minesweepers, I was working on Tropic Rover. Sid Hartshorne was a long time friend who also lived here in Starlite Landing. He like me was a boat builder from the northeast. Sid had this idea to build a 150-foot catamaran. I guess everyone thought it was crazy. Sid designed and organized the whole project. He leased the clearing across the river from Dooley’s. The company was called the Catamarans of Florida. We had an office in a trailer on the clearing. Sid convinced a bunch of investors from Nassau and from over here including the outboard maker Lee Johnson that it would be a good charter venture. It took us exactly 1 year to build the Tropic Rover from 1961 to 1962.

RJ: Was Tropic Rover glass or wood? BH: She had Douglas fir frames double planked with plywood then glassed over with a fire retardant resin called Hectrin. It better be fire retardant with all that plywood! She was a dangerous fire hazard. She had a huge schooner rig with hollow box spars that we put in at Bahia Mar. Everything on her was massive. She was powered by twin cat diesels. Getting her down to Bahia Mar was quite an ordeal. I asked Sid, “Hey did you plan this out?” He went down and measured the railroad bridge, and it only had 40-foot horizontal clearance. Tropic Rover had 39-foot beam! We barely squeezed through there. I remember one of the tugs breaking a window.

RJ: What happened to her? BH: It was pretty successful I guess. They featured her in Life Magazine. Except that the Bahamians wouldn’t let the charter group settle in over there. They actually had to start out and pick up passengers at Port Everglades. The Bahamian government did not want any charter groups settling in over in Nassau. They ran out most of the chartering schooners and ships. Tropic Rover ran four or five day charters sailing over to Nassau and around the Bahamas to places such as Green Turtle Cay. She had at least six double cabins in each hull so that would be twenty four passengers there. I went over for the inaugural run to Nassau, and then they hired an all Bahamian crew. The captain’s quarter was athwartships in the platform. There was in the main salon a bar complete with brass railing. Aft most was the galley. They ran her very successfully for five years. Then in 1967 bad weather pushed her into sunken barges at the Nassau Harbor. She ran around on the jetties. I have a newspaper clipping. After a two hour rescue operation, she sunk. No one was lost. All of the 35 passengers and 15 crew members were saved.

Since the days of Tropic Rover and Dooley’s Yacht Basin, much has changed. After construction of the Tropic Rover in 1962, Summerfield Boat Works dredged the land and put up a seawall. The area became the live aboard nook at the yard behind the little old house that still stands. Currently the yard is vacant after a failed development project during the land craze of the 2000’s. The foreclosed property recently resold for $1.25 million on September 14, 2010 to Point Breeze Holdings LLC according to Broward County Property Records. On the south side, Lauderdale Marine Center no longer does new construction instead opting for refits and service.

Watching the mega yachts go by from Bix’s home in Starlite Landing is like looking into the future. And the funny thing is these yachts do not seem that impressive knowing the lineage of our area. The 2010 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show saw the introduction of the largest yacht ever built in the United States, Cakewalk, a 281-foot mega yacht built at the Derecktor Shipyard in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It seems like all of us in Fort Lauderdale, the yachting capital of the world, should once again build something like Tropic Rover.

22 Replies to “Tropic Rover, two masted 145-foot gaff rigged catamaran”

I have just watched the James Bond Movie ‘Thunderball’ and Tropic Rover is shown in the harbor at night time and James Bond swims under her with the bad guys racing in a boat betwenn the pontoons

I was fortunate to have sailed her as crew with Sid, Betty,Bruce,Ozzie and his son, Winnie and so many more. The 2 years I spent on her as deck hand were my fondest memories even to this day. It was like a dream during a different life time. Most all are gone now like the “Rover” herself, truly a story that should be told. I am awaiting the day when I will rejoin her and my old shipmate to continue our voyage. Billy Boats  

Thanks for commenting in Billy. Hope I have such good memories someday. Richard

I remember when A. C. Emerson’s “Summer Camp Afloat” chartered her for his summer camp in the Bahamas. After that they took over the Lloyd’s Hotel on Spanish Wells for their location.

Another interesting boat from Summer Camp Afloat was ” The Pride” a square rigged Barkentine . Spent some languid days on board , during the summer of 69. Wonder what ever happened to her.

Rusty, did you work for SCA in 69? I believe “The Pride” was still being used in by SCA in the summer of 1971 when I was on Spanish Wells working for SCA. That’s the last I remember of her.

4 of us college students worked on the ss tropic rover in january of 195.  It was quite a experience. One of the biggest storms in the gulf stream was in progress as we crossed it to pick up our passengers in bimini.  Capt. sid hardshorne was not on board during the storm but their was a austraillian captain i recall.  I was seasick for 60 hours and had never been on the ocean before. The ship behind us I bleive was called the polonyesian lost a crew member overboard during the storm. We  sustained some major damage on board.  I remember I was at the Helm and when the aussie came over and saw that we were heading to the  north atlantic and were way off course.   Needleess to say he was very angry and drunk.  A very bad sign for a captain of a sailing vessel.!!!!  We were at sea for approximately 2 weeks.  During my seasickness ozzie the cook was serving and i took  one bite of the food and immediatley threw it overboard.  Ozzie became incensed picked up a butcher knife and chased me around the deck of the boat. I was saved by capt. sid hartshorne.  I often wondered what he thought of the whole situation.  This story has been told dozens of time s to friends and relatives over almost 50years.  Theres lots more to the story.  Best Regards, Jerry Stamm   at [email protected]

The aussie was Roy if he was the tall quy with a goatee and was as fond of drink as Sid. Bruce was the short aussie, usually sober. I do not think Bruce was on board that trip so it had to be Roy. He and Sid got into it in Nassau and Sid fired Roy and Bruce came aboard. Anyway that storm broke the main boom and damaged one of the launches. The reason we were off course was to ride out the hugh swells that were hitting us and trying to get to the lee of the banks. The Polynesia of Mike Burks Windjammer fleet out of Miami was astern of us as well as Yankee Clipper and Mandalay, all competition. Ozzie was the cook for better or worse and his son was our engineer. It is nice to talk and remember, I am the young skinny kid named Billy in those days. Sid was like my dad and he was losing the ship to money troubles so he was understandably out of sorts over it. More later…..

Do you remember the “Sea-Fari” treasure-hunting camp for kids run off that boat in Bimini by chance back around 1968? My Dad was Captain Kruse who found a Spanish Galleon wreck and treasure that the Florida State claimed was within their borders (reduced from then 12 miles out to standard 3 miles today) and seized with armed Coast Guards with machine guns and put in Pensacola Museum (and many pieces of treasure have mysteriously disappeared over the years)? he was also on Joan Rivers short-lived show, called “That Show” with Recardo Montalban talking about the treasure.

My Dad was one of the Sea-Fari camp Captain heads during the sinking of Tropic Rover — Bob Kruse. He said the parents of the summer camp kids were there on board during the storm — including a pregnant woman. He said the Bahamian crew they were forced to use crashed the boat then took ALL the lifeboats, leaving the parents/kids stuck trying to get everyone off onto a pier it was bashing up against because there was no lifeboats left. He said the next morning, it looked like a pile of matchsticks from bashing all night against the rocks. Every kid on those Spanish treasure hunting exersions fondly remembered the time they found an actual treasure ship — even thought the Florida government took it all away claiming ownership.

I spent three summers on Grand Bahama, at the Jack Tar Hotel, with Summer Camp Afloat. I’m thinking that was in the early sixties. Anyone else out there a participant ? I remember a Jeff Birch, Eric Runnerstrom, and Charlsey from California, The SCUBA diving on the 80 ft reef was outstanding, with dive guide Nigel Froome.

My husband Mike Krause was a crew member on the Tropic Rover in 1965 along with….Thomas Owen Mechum, Billy Alan, Betty, and Anna Mason Willier. Ozzie was his mess mate, and Burnell his engineer. He remembers the treasure hunt sponsored by General Mills. He would love to make contact with anyone that was on the Tropic during that time.

Some pics from Tropic Rover days. My husband Mike Krause at the helm. Also, picture of my husband and Billy Allen

Also, picture of Mike Krause and Thomas O. Mechem aka Tucker

For you and Jerry I remember Well Roy jumping from the Seawall by the Purple Onion pulling himself aboard and running up to Sid with his Knife Pulled. I took over as the acting First Mate from then until I left for Service in the Navy March 1965. I believe Dave Gruten took over as the First Mate. My most exciting moments was walking the Broken Boom and lashing the damn thing down …sewing up that #2 Foresail took a week.

I worked on the Tropic Rover with Bob Colf and took over for him as first mate when he decided to get some engine room experience. He was a good first mate.I remember the trip where the boom broke after the Rover jibbed. Sid’s back was out and he didn’t make the trip.The ‘captain” for the trip was Bruce who spent the ruff part of the trip in his cabin leaving Bob and the rest of us to fend for ourselves. I had previously worked on the Brigantine Yankee so I had some experience. The only one that could handle the Rover was Sid and he wasn’t there.Bruce wanted to put in a mayday and was in touch with Sid on the radio.Sid wouldn’t allow that to happen.Great adventures and memories.I ran into Sid 20 years later when I was commissioning my own boat in Summerfield He hadn’t changed.He was trying to put up my wife.

Jerry,I remember you.I think I tied you to the foremast so you wouldn’t fall overboard.

I left just before your husband came aboard.I introduced Tuck to the Rover and Sid and was first mate at the time.Best Regards David

Just discovered your entry….would be extreamly grateful if there is anyway you could help me reach Tucker

Last I heard was in the late 80″s,he had a hotel on Culebra near Puerto Rico.We come from the same area in N.J.so I can make some inquires.My emaill is [email protected] .

A little recent research lead me to Bob Serges Obituary. Bob was Captain of The Pride. He passed in 2008 in NEw zealand and it says the Pride was scuttled off Fort Lauderdale as part of an artifical reef

Anyone remember Kevin “Buck” Price?

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Woodwind II

After their charter operation with Woodwind proved a success the operators returned to Scarano Boat Building five years later for a second vessel, Woodwind II.  Besides being a fast sailor, her greatest claim to fame is probably her appearance in the movie Wedding Crashers when father of the bride Christopher Walken takes her out for a sail.

LOA :  84 feet (26 meters) Type :  two masted schooner Year launched : 1998 Certification :  USCG certified for 49 passengers Current location :  Woodwind II is operated on Chesapeake Bay with her sister ship Woodwind by  Schooner Woodwind Cruises.

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twin masts on cat thoughts on

Discussion in ' Multihulls ' started by seadreamer6 , Oct 21, 2012 .

seadreamer6 Junior Member

Do any of u have thoughts on using 2 masts on a cat? What I'm wondering is if you put a smaller mast on each hull instead of one large one on the bridge deck.  

Sundevil Junior Member

It sounds more complicated. But that is an uninformed opinion.  

jamez Senior Member

Been done before.......... For starters http://www.schionningdesigns.com.au/www/welcome.cfm look for Radical Bay under sailing designs http://www.ikarus342000.com/DUO660page.htm http://www.kelsall.com/Designs/KSS54.htm http://www.tcdesign.co.nz/TC_Design/Sailing_Designs/Pages/TC_750.html http://www.multihulldesigns.com/designs_other/cat2fold36.htm  

oldsailor7 Senior Member

As Jamez said, It has been done before ----and has been done to death. As the old saying says, "Why use two when one will do". If the idea was so good you have to ask your self, why don't you see them all over the place today. All the complications of cost, rigging complexity, control, trim balance, airflow interference------the list goes on.  

Cat2Fold Junior Member

oldsailor7 said: ↑ As Jamez said, It has been done before ----and has been done to death. As the old saying says, "Why use two when one will do". If the idea was so good you have to ask your self, why don't you see them all over the place today. All the complications of cost, rigging complexity, control, trim balance, airflow interference------the list goes on. Click to expand...

I would love to have a couple of days on one of the little Schionning RB8000's to try the whole deal out. There would seem to be some limitations for racing (harder to fly a hull and limitations in size of any extras) which is probably why there aren't so many around. Also they are 'different' and sailors tend to be conservative when it comes to their own money. That said, the idea of a cruising boat with only two sails and two strings to pull (like the Radical bay) has some attraction. Tom F Jones wrote at length on his experience with a biplane rig on his 25' Dandy. However Jones' approach was to fit a complete stayed rig to each hull which effectively doubled all the cost and complexity. In the end he changed the boat to a single mast. If you read around a bit there have been some successful biplane rigged cats but they all seem to be based on free standing masts of some type or other, which most of the modern iterations seem to be based around - usually carbon these days. Casting the clock back, a friend of mine built the boat (blue topsides) in the pic around 30 years ago. Designer Bernard Rhodes helped modify the plans (pahi 31) and designed the rig - with freestanding wood/glass masts - which it still carries, through several subsequent owners (pics were taken long after the original owner sold her). Rhodes went on to design and build 'Flying Carpet' a biplane rigged cat of around 11 metres, which he sailed from NZ to Japan and back and then used as a charter boat (white cat below).  

Attached Files:

Flyingcarpet.jpg, modified pahi 31.jpg, rua biplane pahi.jpg.

Thank u all for your responses. I checked out the sites Jamez referred me to. Great information. My original thought was that 2 smaller masts would mean smaller sails with less rigging meaning easier to handle. I hadn't taken into account the shadowing effect one sail would have on the other, or the different driving forces on the separate hulls. I imagine it would be much like having a motor in each hull, were one is running at full speed while the other is at half speed, with the boat constantly trying to turn towards the slower motor. I truly appreciate your patience with my basic sailing questions. This is my first foray into multihulls after many years with planing power boats. Now that i have retired i'm ready to slow down and smell the roses, so to speak. My next boat will definitely be a cat. Now my mission is to define what i really want to do with it, find one that fits, and get back on the water.  

HASYB Senior Member

I just remembered that the creative & innovative french designer and builder Dennis Kergomard also designed some catamarans with 2 masts. Al his boats are inspiring and its worth to look around on his website Imo. Homepage: http://www.alibi-architecture.eu/ twin masts catamarans: RV7: http://www.alibi-architecture.eu/delirs/dossiers/RV7.pdf Catamixt: http://www.alibi-architecture.eu/cata%20croisiere/dossiers/catamixt.pdf Catcotcot: http://www.alibi-architecture.eu/cata%20croisiere/dossiers/catcotcot.pdf  

prograd Junior Member

twin masts catamarans: RV7: http://www.alibi-architecture.eu/del...ssiers/RV7.pdf Click to expand...

thanks hasyb. Very interesting concepts. The catamixt appears to use two fixed wing type sails that rotate around the deck house. I wonder if one of these was ever built. Lol..now i have to research fixed wing type sails.  

spidennis Chief Sawdust Sweeper

and don't forget 50/50! http://www.boatdesign.net/forums/multihulls/50-50-biplane-cat-43793.html and then there's my "Bad Kitty" design for the Ultimate Florida Challenge.  

Petros Senior Member

the fastest sailboats built, all of the record breakers, all have single sloop rigged sails. two smaller sails are less efficient that one large one of the same area. Meaning you get more speed out of the same amount of sail area with one large sail. There are other reason to go to twin sails, that is one to make it easier to handle two smallish sails by a single crew. Also, as noted, smaller rigs are easier to make unstayed masts and simpler rigging without being overly heavy. And there is also something to be said for redundancy on a long distance cruiser. Do it to have something unique, but not because it actually performs better. Me, I think simpler is better, which ever one has the few parts and costs less is the one I go for. fewer parts also means more reliable, few parts to break or wear out.  

Actually twin rigs did break several records: Yves Parlier with his hydroplaneur broke 24hour record, above mentioned 50/50 broke Lake Balaton record, and also Radical Bay is said (by people who sail it) that it has superior performance. two smaller sails are less efficient that one large one of the same area. Click to expand...

Here's a Radical Bay 8000 that claims to have been a winner in international regattas: Crazy Horse . (doing chartering at the moment)  

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prograd, yes, you are correct, there are some narrowly defined records that often use unconventional rigs. Perhaps I should clarify, as far I am aware, all of the open ocean records are currently held by multi-hulls with conventional sloop rigs. They are advanced design, yes, but the basic configuration is a sloop. It would seem from a pure efficiency standpoint a large single sail should be the most efficient at producing trust. But all of the open ocean records are held by sloops, even the single handed ones. Perhaps the higher pointing ability of the sloop gives it an edge in open water sailing from point to point.  

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