30 ft catamaran price

8 Best Catamarans That Are 30 Feet or Less

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Large-sized catamarans are appealing due to their ample spacing and comfort. Therefore, a cruising family or couple looking to buy a boat is more likely to go for one of these. But are there small cruising catamarans that provide the performance, comfort, and amenities found in larger boats?  

The best catamarans under 30 feet (9.14 m) include the TomCat 6.2, Cadillac 27and 30, Gemini 30, Endeavour 30, and Maine Cat. These time-tested cruising cats are easy to handle, premium built, and are great for daytime sailing, overnight trips, and some even suitable for long-range sea passages. 

In this article, you’ll find a list of the best cruising catamarans below 30 feet (9.14 m). Keep reading to discover which catamarans make this list, what they have to offer, their pros and cons, and how much they cost.

If you are unsure whether or not 30ft is too small for your needs, then I suggest you check out another article I wrote named Best Size Catamaran , it will discuss why length matters and how it affects safety.

Unlike most catamarans designed for racing purposes, the TomCat 6.2 is a medium-sized cat that’s well-suited to daytime cruising. It boasts high-quality construction, vacuum-bagged hulls, and a plywood-reinforced deck.

This 20 footer (6.09 m) comes with an 11-foot (3.35 m) beam and not only offers you safety and comfort but performance and versatility as well. 

This boat has a centrally placed outboard engine and two rudders that allow it to turn quickly and maneuver confidently into and out of marina slips. The 9.9 hp outboard propels it to speeds of around 8 knots (9.21 mph or 14.8 kph), though the boat has the potential to move faster if desired.

This simpler type of cat (just one engine as an example) also allows for cheaper and easier maintenance. Maintenance costs are something most people underestimate when getting a cat, if you want to get some real numbers from actual sailors then I suggest you read this article (How much does it cost to maintain a cat).

The boat sails with minimal heeling, comfortably accommodate 6-8 people, and you can sail it single-handed or take a crew. 

High and narrow hulls bearing arched bottoms allow for a low wetted surface. The hull design provides low resistance and a great deal of reserved buoyancy and also enables you to drive through closely spaced waves.

On most 20-footers (6.1 m), driving through waves generates a smooth but wet ride, but with the TomCat’s enclosed deck (link to parts names explained here ), you are safe and protected behind a windshield and the high bulwark.

The TomCat makes an excellent cruiser because it performs impressively well both under sail and power. It combines the performance of a modern sailing cat with the comfort, style, and convenience of a powerboat. It’s also trailerable since you can detach the hulls from the deck , winch up the deck on a trailer, and slide the hulls underneath.

But the best part is that it’s easy on the pocket, with the price ranging between $36,750 and $44,580 .

Catalac 30 (9M)

The Catalac brand consists of strongly built vessels that sport thick hulls, glass windows, narrow beams, and vertical transoms . Catalac 30 was the first vessel in this popular British cruising line designed by Tom Lack in the late 60s. The boat’s appeal was attributed to its safety, ample spacing, well-built interior, and load-carrying abilities.

These characteristics are extremely important on a safe catamaran, overloading your cat makes it sit lower in the water, increases drag, reduces handling and speed, there is stuff you should know about this (so that you can make an educated buy). I have created an article where I try to explain the basics of a safe cat ( link here )

Sporting 5 berths, a massive galley, plus a cockpit with a sheltered steering position, the 30-foot (9.1 m) Catalac makes an excellent floating home for a cruising family. It sails exceptionally well, doesn’t heel ( heeling explained here ), and delivers a reasonable motor-sailer level of performance.

Furthermore, the hulls provide adequate headroom, allowing those on board to move around comfortably, and there’s enough space on the deck for sunbathing. 

The Catalac’s structure features solid fiberglass, chined hulls, and a staggered sheerline that allows easy aft access. With a modest rig that’s easy to handle, the Catalac can deliver top speeds of up to 12-14 knots (13.81-16.11 mph / 22.22-25.9 kph) under sail.

Given that the boat’s design focuses more on comfort than speed, this is a spectacular performance.  

Catalac 9M requires a skilled hand when turning into the wind as it is prone to blowing sideways. This is because the boat lacks ballast (which helps in keeping momentum during a tack) but also centerboards ( explained here ).

Skills are always the most essential things to bring aboard and you can acquire them in many ways, my two favorite ways are through NauticEd courses (two free courses here ) or by reading books (my top 15 books here )

Back to the boat! This model came in two versions; the standard layout contained a 30-40hp outboard, while the second option had duo engines. The latter is easier to maneuver into a marina. 

These cats retain their value pretty well. However, they might not be easy to come by since most owners find it challenging to get their hands on a larger boat with similar qualities and performance.

A Catalac 30 (9M) goes for between $33,000 and $55,000.

Catalac 27 (8M)

The Catalac 27 8M is a pocket cruiser that boasts a strong reputation for high quality, durability, and strength. Besides, the boat’s design makes it somewhat suitable for bluewater sailing ( understand why the small size is an offshore problem).

Built like a battleship, the boat contains solid fiberglass hulls. Additionally, it comes with double engines, a large cockpit fitted with cushions all around, and features standing headroom in each hull.

Like the Catalac 9M, this boat comes with two different layouts; a twin inboard diesel engine or an outboard engine. The twin-engine models can motor up to 1000 km (621 miles, read more on cat fuel consumption here ) without needing to refuel, while the 70 amps of charge plus water tanks (70 gallons / 265 liters) make these vessels remarkable coastal cruisers. 

Catalacs equipped with outboard engines sail faster since you can raise the engine during sailing and are also lighter. This helps to minimize drag . Catalac 8M sports a short but thick mast that helps make the boat stable. 

Though small in size, this catamaran packs a lot of features in its small frame. It has a full-sized berth, a large galley that’s almost 8 feet (2.4 m) long, a quarter berth, head, and navigation station.

What’s more, the cockpit is as large as that of a 38 to 40-foot (11.5 to 12.1 m) cat.

Catalac 27 costs about $31,836.

The Endeavour 30 

The Endeavour 30 catamaran is a boat characterized by stability, ample deck space, and a spacious interior. It boasts fast cruising speeds under both sail and power.

The boat has mini keels and rudders plus symmetrical hulls separated by a hydra-cell. The latter is a center section with a characteristic V-shape. 

The boat’s vacuum-bagged construction helps enhance strength and stiffness while reducing weight. Furthermore, the interior has a fiberglass mold, providing extra strength and rigidity. With sufficient breeze, this vessel can deliver reasonable off-the-wind and doable upwind speeds.

As such, you can expect to attain speeds of about ~10 knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph) on power reaches. Below is a video showing a panoramic tour of the Endeavour 30:

This vessel has the internal capacity of a 40-foot (12.1 m) monohull. And you can tell this from the unique layout merging the cabin and cockpit with wide doors to the numerous features packed into this 30-foot (9.14 m) vessel.

It has a spacious salon, an enormous galley, two queen berth staterooms with plenty of storage space, a head with separate showers, and a sizable U-shaped dinette. 

You can get this boat for under $50,000 .

The Geminis by Tony Smith were the United States’s first production cruising cats. Today, these vessels remain the most appealing American-built cruising catamarans. Built between 1981 and 1990, the Gemini 30 does not have a contemporary design, but it works remarkably well for cruisers desiring generous living space in a small affordable sailboat.

At only 14 feet (4.2 m) across, Gemini cats are somewhat narrow. But this mean s they can easily fit into most of the regular marina berths.

Besides, the boats still contain enough interior space for a queen-size double berth and two smaller doubles housed in separate guest rooms.

There’s also a modest but serviceable saloon with duo settees and a collapsible table that can transform into an additional double berth.

For the Gemini 30, this translates to a cruising cat with standing headroom that can comfortably accommodate 3 couples in private cabins or a family with small children. A good-sized galley, a spacious head with a shower, nav desk, and a large comfy cockpit make up the Gemini 30’s cruising palace.

Catamaran layout is highly personal and if you want to learn more about different characteristics then I suggest you read my article Designing the perfect catamaran layout ( Link )

While not that fast, the Gemini 30 will easily outsail the Endeavor 30 discussed above. Its daggerboards (which are explained in detail here ) can point well, and if you keep it light, it can do 7-8 knots (12.9-14.8 km/hr) under sail.

Besides, raising the daggerboards reduces the wetted surface area, and increases the speed downwind.

The Gemini 30 tends to pound and hobbyhorse a little when sailing in choppy waters – particularly when overloaded (more on load carrying capabilities in this article ), but the deep pivoting daggerboards provide stability and lift underwater.

Furthermore, the Gemini’s retractable rudders enable it to venture into shallow waters.

This is a very popular cruising cat that’ll give you a lot of bang for your bucks.

You can find a Gemini for less than $65,000.

Maine Cat 30 

The Maine Cat 30 combines premium quality construction materials with the most advanced building techniques to create a lightweight vessel capable of handling most offshore conditions. What’s more, this boat can remain trouble-free for years on end with little effort.

If you are in the market for a simple liveaboard cruiser that you can use for a short weekend getaway or a cruising voyage, this is it.

The boat has a sizable primary stateroom berth with ample overhead space and a dresser fitted with a hanging storage cabinet. The enormous head includes a toilet, sink, 20-gallon (75.71 L) holding tank, vanity, and a pressurized shower.

Covering the open bridgedeck is a permanent hardtop. This spacious bridgedeck can hold quite a crowd and comes with a convertible dinette that turns into an extra berth. If need be, you can even enclose the entire space using acrylic windows or screens. Gabo

The 360-degree visibility from the cockpit allows the captain plus the crew a panoramic view, and all sail controls go back to the cockpit, which is very useful if wanting to sail single-handedly.

I believe that most boats should be set up in this way since sooner or later you might be in a situation where there is only one person to handle the controls, such as in an emergency. But more on that in another article ( Link ).

The Maine Cat 30 is a classic boat that delivers on high-performance multihull sailing. Designed to offer much better performance than catamarans bearing tall and heavy bridge decks, this cat weighs less and suffers less windage thanks to the acrylic windows.

The boat’s interior layout allows for easy cleaning as surfaces sport a smooth gel coat and satin-finished cherry trim. The solid but lightweight furniture bears the same Core-Cell foam core employed on the hull, deck, and hardtop. Plus, there’s ample storage for all your sailing equipment, cleaning supplies, and provisions.

A Maine Cat 30 can cost up to $110,000.

Heavenly Twins 27

The overall design of this well-equipped catamaran makes it a superb pocket cruiser.

Heavenly Twins 27 manages to fit not one but two coachroofs on hulls that are only 27 feet (8.20 m) long. Canoe sterns and a central cockpit separating the duo coachroofs form the boat’s other prominent features. 

Famous for their excellent build quality, medium-depth draft, and narrow beams, Heavenly Twins 27 appeals to a wide range of boating enthusiasts.

These include solo sailors, weekend sailors, cruising families, circumnavigators, beginner sailors, and experienced liveaboards such as this famous Youtube channel “Kittiwake”.

The vessels house double cabins in the hulls while the forward starboard contains the heads and, to port, the galley. You can easily access the bar from the well-protected cockpit while the Comfordesk accommodation converts into a double dock. 

A stoop through allows access from below-deck to the aft compartment without going through the cockpit. There’s ample storage space throughout the boat, plus you can section off the large stateroom into smaller double compartments if desired.

The price range for this boat is $ 20,098 to $24,193. (I believe that kittiwake is for sale too)

The last cruising catamaran on my list is the Aquilon 26 . This French-built cruising vessel is light in weight and trailerable, which means you can disassemble it in a few hours or transport it as-is.

Designing a boat that is possible to disassemble usually means that it is structurally less strong, which by no means is a problem during coastal sailing but the Aquilon 26 is mostly attractive to sailors who prefer inland lake sailing. It’s also suitable for beginner sailors.

Although there are no real “beginner cats” there are specs to consider if you are a beginner with catamarans, most of them I have listed in another article ( here ). Gabo

This 26-footer (7.92 m) has the potential for good speed though its layout is anything but conventional- which forms part of its appeal.

The cockpit works as the saloon, and a full bimini protects the crew from lousy weather. The starboard hull contains a dinette and galley, and the port has a double berth stateroom. The windows are quite unusual, but they provide lots of light, remarkably enhancing interior visibility.

Aquilon 26 can deliver an average cruising speed of 10knots (11.51 mph or 18.5 kph).

On a beam reach, you can expect around 25 knots (28.77 mph or 46.3 kph) with an adequate breeze ( I have never sailed at 25knots but researching this boat supposedly it is possible).

You can get this boat for under $50,000.

What Makes Small Cruising Cats Attractive?

Small cruising cats are ideal for sailing along the coast. But that’s not all. Under capable hands, properly fitted smaller cats can also deliver spectacular offshore passages similar to their larger counterpart (Heres a list of full-sized bluewater cats).

They can operate over long cruise ranges, cross oceans , and circumnavigate the globe . Smaller cats are also suitable for day sailing, overnight trips, and coastal or inland voyages. 

For most sailors, comfort on board is crucial, so they’ll look for a vessel that guarantees a comfortable cruising experience. The good thing is that smaller vessels provide almost the same qualities and amenities that bigger vessels offer. Plus, you can do quite a bit with the available space, especially if it’s well laid out.  

You’ll find that most 30-footer (9.14 m) or more miniature cruising cats comprise a galley, head, bunks, navigation and entertainment electronics, and refrigeration.

Sailors usually talk about these benefits of smaller cats:

• They’re less expensive. Large boats are costly to buy. They also cost more to hire, maintain, and dock. You can buy a small-sized boat at a much lower price, and parts tend to cost less too. Besides, you get to use smaller sails, winches, and lighter lines than those applicable on a larger boat. And since marine services such as moorings and haul-outs get billed via boat length, a smaller cat makes sailing more affordable.
• They boast superior builds. Most cruising boats under 30 feet (9.14 m) feature designs that are 30+ years old. In those days, weather forecasts were hard to come by and not as accurate, so boat builders used hulls with thicker fiberglass than the type found in today’s builds. Furthermore, everything in the boat, including rigs, rudders, hulls, keels and decks, was designed to withstand strong winds and high waves. 
• They have simpler systems. This means less time spent fixing and maintaining your boat. For instance, most small cruising cats often lack water-makers, hot water systems, or electric anchor windlasses. 
• They’re easier to handle. Smaller cats are simpler to sail than larger cats. It’s also easier to sail one single-handed or with a small crew.

What is the largest cat on person can sail?

The Disadvantages of Smaller Cruising Cats

Below are some of the most discussed downsides of small cats:

• They have limited living space, storage, and amenities.
• Though they don’t heel much, they are less comfortable than larger boats since they get tossed around much more easily in big ocean swells.
• It’s not easy to accommodate crew for extended periods; hence there are fewer hands to share work.
• They are slower and take longer to get to their destination.

Though fewer are on the cruising trails than their larger counterparts, small catamarans make ideal cruisers because they are simple, seaworthy, and pocket-friendly.

When choosing the best cat for your needs, focus on quality rather than size. A well-planned 30-footer (9.14 m) is reliable and provides ample space for your accommodation, dining, and relaxation, plus a storage room for provisions and any spare parts you might need. 

And if you want even more info than I have presented to you in this article I would recommend a book from Serj, he makes it easy to understand why size matters and how to find a cat suited for your needs (amazon link )

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!

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Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Catamaran (With 4 Examples)

Turns out that owning a catamaran is pretty affordable. Not cheap, but it can absolutely be done on a budget. In this article, I'll show you what to expect.

Sure, there are plenty of unimaginably expensive catamarans available, but a modest, used open catamaran can be as cheap as $6,000 and an additional $1,000 per year.

A new catamaran costs $144,000 on average at 30 foot, while a used one will cost between $29,000-$134,000 on average. New catamarans cost $751,000 at 50 foot, while a used one ranges from $203,000-$690,000. The average annual cost ranges from $2,805-$10,950.

Of course the price of a catamarans depends on many factors, like the size for example, and your choices determine whether owning one is a rich man's game, or actually a very good holiday investment.

It may come as a surprise that you can get a decent 34-foot catamaran for as little as $25,500 on Craigslist.

This will be a long article because there are so any aspects to cover. I'd like to spend some time exploring the costs of actually buying the boat . Then I want to go into recurring costs , like mooring, maintenance, and insurance.

Cost of buying a sailboat

If you're also eager to find out what regular sailboats cost on average, I have published a very similar article on that topic. Sailboats are a lot more affordable than catamarans, so if these numbers startle you, you could check out the cost of regular monohulls .

But first, to get a good sense of the ballpark amounts, I'll give some real-life price examples, like:

• what does it cost if you want to keep your cat in good shape and have a good sailing experience? - aka: most people
• what does it cost if you ONLY spend the absolute minimum amount to keep her floating?
• if I want to sail the world on a budget, what's the absolute minimum?
• if sailing is more of a status thing to you, how much money COULD you spend?

On this page:

Examples of popular catamarans and how much they cost, what does it cost to buy a catamaran, what does it cost to own a catamaran, catamarans are 60% more expensive than monohulls.

There are a lot of great boats out there for a good price and there are also some boats that are so expensive (or so cheap), it's not even fun to look at them.

But one thing's for sure: there are plenty of boats available, and even if you're on a very tight budget, you could absolutely still make it work. Sailing is in and of itself actually not that expensive: wind is free, water is free, boats can be cheap - if you're willing to look around a bit. It's all the little extras that add up quickly.

Listed below are four boats that make great beginner boats. Since more than 80% of all boats that are bought are second-hand, I'll use the prices of used boats I found on Craigslist and Yachtworld.

If you want to know exactly where the numbers come from, don't worry, I'll explain them after the four examples.

1. Sea Cat 226DC 22' for stressless weekends on the lake

Boat: Sea Cat 226DC 2007 22 foot The one-time costs are $53,615 Your total recurring costs are $9,510 per year, or $793 per month

Let's say you're like me and most other people and just want a nice cat without too much hassle. So you pay people for any important maintenance that's not easy to do yourself. You do the required maintenance and save up for future repairs. You do a little yourself, which saves you a couple of hundred of bucks a year. You also join a (cheap) sailing club to learn how to not trash the boat.You don't want to buy a bad boat, so you pay a fair purchase price.

One-Time Costs

Recurring Costs

2. Extreme Low Budget Kantola Mach II 35'

Boat: Kantola Mach II 1968 35 foot The one-time costs are $26,440 Your total recurring costs are $2,805 per year, or $234 per month

Let's say, for argument's sake, you want to buy the cheapest cat you can, saving as much money as possible on repairs and annual costs. How cheap could you theoretically go without ending up with a trasher?

I think something like this old but sturdy Kantola Mach II will be right for you. It will save you massively on the purchase price. However, beware, you'll have to antifoul the boat next fall, which will cost you (roughly $2,000). It's common with very cheap boats: upcoming maintenance. But if the current owner is fair and discloses it, you may get a good deal.

In this case, you won't join any clubs. You'll simply do the most important maintenance to keep the boat from falling apart, find a nice mooring place in a far-away (cheap) location, and sail along quietly and affordably.

3. Low Budget 35' Cruising Catamaran for traveling the world

Boat: Gemini 105 1996 Cruising Catamaran 35 foot The one-time costs are $85,850 Your total recurring costs are $10,950 per year, or $913 per month

Let's see what it would take to get a good bluewater cat with all the features you'll need to sail across the world on a budget. In this scenario, you buy a fairly priced, not too old cat that is ready to cruise. Something like this Gemini 105 1996 will do.

Not too long, but comfortable enough for extended onboard time, reducing length will greatly reduce cost as well. With boats, you pay per foot, both in maintenance, fuel, and docking costs.

You don't join a sailing club, reserve quite a bit of change for your maintenance fund (since you'll be bluewater sailing), but you don't need to winterize the boat, as you'll simply sail to the Bahamas and stay in the warm waters there. Or at least, that's what I'd do.

Your mooring costs will be somewhat higher, sailing to and from more popular destination, but your overall monthly cost won't exceed your monthly mortgage or rent payments, and you could permanently live onboard without problems.

You'd need an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) to be able to cross all international waters. You can learn how to get your certificate here .

4. Luxury 52' Cruising Catamaran

Boat: Shuttleworth AeroRig 2022 52 foot The one-time costs are $2,326,020 Your total recurring costs are $53,400 per year, or $4,450 per month

So what if you're in it for the fame? Well, don't worry, there are many status symbols to be had and there is plenty of cash to be burned.

In this case, we buy a new cat of 52 foot, which is not overly decadent, but it's a real piece of gear nonetheless. This Shuttleworth AeroRig comes equipped with all the comfort and luxury you'll need for extended cruising in style.

Of course, you'll pay for joining a decent club, since that's where you can show off your rig. We'll also invest something extra into equipment, regardless of the full electronic rig that comes with the boat.

The annual costs will be high due to mooring fees, the club, and pretty hefty winter storage fees that come with a boat this large.

Unlike monohull sailboats, the price difference between new and second-hand catamarans isn't as great. Regular used sailboats go at a 65-75% discount, while the discount for an average used catamaran is just 10% .

The price difference becomes more noticeable the larger you go, with second-hand catamarans of over 75 foot going at a 35% discount , but that's as high as it gets.

Size and condition affect price the most

There are a couple of important factors that determine how much money you end up spending.

• Size - length determines mooring costs, insurance, amount of paint on your hull: literally everything gets more expensive with every foot of length
• New vs. used - of course, it makes all the difference whether you buy new or used. Typically, the price of a 35-foot used catamaran vs. a comparable new one is 10% lower (ie. $237,714 vs. $261,286).

Price of new catamarans

The price of new catamarans ranges from roughly $1,765 - $54,491 per foot. An average length catamaran costs between $144,000 and $505,000 (30 - 45 foot). Some go for as low as $42,000 to as high as $924,000.

I've looked at the prices of thousands of catamarans (really) on one of the largest yacht marketplaces in the world (- not manually, don't worry: with the help of their search function). This is what I came up with:

Average price new catamaran per foot in USD:

Catamarans get a lot more expensive from 50 foot and up:

• under 30 ft: $2,835 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $9,767 per ft
• 50 - 75 ft: $18,055 per ft
• 75 - 120 ft: $41,737 per ft

Purchasing price new catamarans

Source: Yachtworld.com , Q2 2022

Price jumps at these boat lengths

As we can see from the data above, the average price per foot drastically increases for new boats at the following lengths: 25 foot, 35 foot, 40 foot, 60 foot, 75 foot, and 100 foot . Buy just under these lengths to get the most boat for you buck.

Price of used catamarans

The price of second-hand catamarans ranges from roughly $756 - $39,909 per foot. An average length catamaran costs between $134,000 to $467,000 (30-45 foot) on the second-hand market. Some go for as low as $29,000 to as high as $848,000.

We did the same for used catamarans, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

Average price used catamaran per foot in USD:

On average, second-hand catamarans go at 35% less of the cost of a new boat:

• under 30 ft: $2,236 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $9,021 per ft
• 50 - 75 ft: $16,204 per ft
• 75 - 120 ft: $30,945 per ft

Purchasing price used catamarans

If this is too much for you, you could always rent a boat instead. I recommend chartering. You can get great catamarans at great prices. Check out my charter recommendation here .

As we can see from the data above, the average price per foot drastically increases for second-hand boats at the following lengths: 25 foot, 40 foot, 55 foot, 75 foot, and 100 foot . Buy just under these lengths to get the most boat for you buck.

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 10 relevant search results for sailboats under, and over 30 feet.

Of course, the averages here are very speculative, as prices vary from day to day. But it gives a broad range of what to expect.

Over 50 feet, listings become meagre. I believe people tend to not place their 80-ft catamaran on Craigslist, but sell it through a broker instead. So I've kept used yachts over 50 feet out of the picture for now.

This is what I found on Craigslist:

Source: Craigslist , Q2 2022

I've calculated the median price, not the average. The median is the price that's most common within the price range. This way the highest and lowest prices don't have as much impact.

The average Craigslist price-per-foot of a used catamaran:

So let's take a quick look at the costs for owning a sailboat.

One-time costs:

• Registration : costs of registration differ per state, but usually run anywhere from $3 - $10 per foot.
• Taxes : differs per state and country. Most governments want you to pay property tax and sales tax. Sales tax is usually about 5%. Property tax varies and is more complex, so I'll leave that up to you to figure out.
• Sailing club initiation fee : $1,500 - $4,000

Recurring costs:

• Mooring : $20-30 per foot per year (can be much higher for prime locations)
• Insurance : typically 1.5% of the total value of the boat. So a $100,000 30' cruiser will cost $1,500.
• Maintenance : a good rule of thumb is 10% of the boat value. Expect to spend anywhere between $1,000 - $5,000 per year for small to mid-sized boats.
• Fuel : depends on how much you use the boat and the engine, but on average something between $100 - $150.
• International License : if you want to sail on international waters, you have to get your ICC (International Certificate of Competence. Plan on spending anywhere between 400 to 500 dollars.
• Safety equipment : plan on spending anywhere between 150 to 600 bucks for lifejackets, first aid kit, and distress signals.
• Winterize boat : $4,000
• Sailing club: $800 - $1,500

Maintenance cost

Your average maintenance cost will be roughly $144 dollars per month for boats under 30', or just under $2,000 per year.

Maintainance involves a lot of hidden costs We took an in-depth look at everything . The result is a comprehensive article that lays it all out for new boat owners. Read all about maintenance costs

Gas engines run for about 1,500 hours, diesel engines run for 5,000. After that, you'll need to change them out.

A standard 15HP or 20HP outboard gas engine will cost you about $5,000 - $6,000 and needs replacing every 20 years or so. If you do the work yourself, it's more something like $1,000 - $1,500.

A smaller engine uses less fuel, reducing your total cost You can actually use a pretty small engine for most sailboats. To learn how small (and efficient) you can go, I've written a guide on how to calculate it yourself. Read all about outboard engine size

Replacing the sails and rigging

Most people that own a sailboat will have to replace the sails and rigging at least once in their lifetime. Replacing the mast is uncommon, but if you're unlucky and get demasted, it will need to be fixed. So I've added it to the "be aware this might happen" list - but won't add it to the monthly recurring costs.

If you need to replace the mast and boom, prepare to spend anywhere between $15,000 - $25,000.

I won't go into detail, but I have written a detailed article about the exact cost of new sails . It's a really helpful post if you want to know what to expect.

Good quality cruising sails will need to be replaced every 10 years or so.

The cost of new sails is on average:

• 26' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $1,000 - $2,500.
• 34' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $3,000 - $5,000.

The cost of the new rigging is on average:

• Standing rigging - every 10 years at $4,000
• Running rigging - every 5-10 years at $5,000

Bottom Paint

Another important cost will be antifouling, or bottom paint. The cost of antifouling is between $20 and $45 per foot . Since a catamaran has two hulls, it will cost roughly twice as much.

• Cost of antifouling a 40-foot yacht is $1,300
• Cost of antifouling a 40-foot catamaran is $2,600

Depending on the usage, you may want to antifoul yearly of bi-yearly, making this a pretty substantial expense: $1,300 to $2,600 of additional annual maintenance costs .

Replacing safety equipment

USCG safety regulations require you to replace safety gear regularly.

• Lifejackets have to be replaced every 10 years.
• Flares have to be replaced every 42 months. You could consider buying a LED electric distress light instead, which will last you a lifetime.
• If you carry a life-raft you'll need to replace that every 12 years as well.

Adhering to the minimum safety requirements shouldn't cost you more than $150-$250 every 5 years. However, if you want the good stuff, or need more fire extinguishers, plan on spending more like $600. If you want a life raft, that's another $1,500.

To avoid you have to go cheap on your safety gear, I've put it in the budget for $500.

If you want to know exactly what the USCG safety requirements are, including checklists , definitely check out my article here.

Winterizing your boat

Winterization is an often overlooked cost, but it can be one of the largest expenses each year. If you're like me, and not so lucky to live in Florida, you need to winterize your boat.

Failing to winterize it will increase your maintenance cost over time, as the engine wears out more quickly, and your plumbing and equipment will fall apart. Winter storms and ice can damage the hull and mast as well. It's the best way to protect your boat in wintertime, period.

It consists of two parts:

• Winterizing - costs $1,000 to $2,000 - This is the preparation for winter storage. You flush the cooling system with anti-freeze, and the boat gets wrapped in a shrink wrap cover.
• Winter storage - costs $100 per ft on average for catamarans (double the regular fee).

Other maintenance costs

• Batteries: deep cycle batteries need replacing every 4-6 years at $600
• Deck hardware: every 20-30 years (bullseyes, tiller, eye straps) at $3,000

Joining a Sailing Club

If you're new to sailing, you might want to consider joining a sailboat club. This might help you to get tips, make friends, and learn in a safe environment. Most clubs also organize races, which are a great way to quickly improve your sailing skills.

But it comes at a cost. Sailing clubs are very expensive.

• Initiation fees range anywhere between $1,000 - $4,000. But that's not all.
• Then there's an annual fee of $500 - $1,000 per year. And lot's of additional fees: for dining, lockers, etc.

If you're willing to skip Christmas, go for it.

I've already referred to my guide on the average sailboat cost, which covers the same costs of purchasing and ownership as this article, but for monohulls.

Comparing the two, we can safely conclude that catamarans are way more expensive than monohulls. On every point, you'll pay more per foot for cats, both in the purchase and the upkeep.

On average, catamarans are roughly 60% more expensive than comparable monohulls. But there are exceptions.

To get the exact difference in price between monohulls and catamarans, I've done a in-depth comparison of the data. This gives us a detailed overview of the price difference for different boat lengths, both for new and second-hand boats.

If you want to learn about the price differences, and explore if there's a sweet spot of owning a catamaran for you, I really recommend reading my cost comparison of monohulls vs. catamarans next .

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Xquisite 30 Sportcat

The Xquisite 30 Sportcat innovative and trailer transportable, designed to deliver the ultimate sailing experience. Easily handled by even non-seasoned sailors, and it can accommodate up to 8 persons onboard.

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Tiki 30 Catamaran: A Practical Sailor Boat Test

This wharram-designed coastal-cruising cat is a tempting diy boatbuilding project for those looking to get back to the basics..

Photos by Ralph Naranjo

Part of the catamaran designer James Wharrams success story lies in the lifestyle he has been marketing along with his boats. For decades, like fellow cat-cult heroes Arthur Piver and Jim Brown, he has launched people as well as boats on voyages of discovery. He pitches the case for Spartan simplicity and self-reliance and backs it up with a forthright and savvy boatbuilding syllabus. His is the anathema of the ferro-cement craze, more of a “do with less” rather than “load her up” mindset. He sells his ideas as effectively as any self-help telemarketer, and his elixir to cure a mundane life ashore makes much more sense.

Those who drop in on Wharrams website www.wharram.com are encouraged to buy a pithy, 72-page book thats an unabashed advertisement for Wharrams boats, the practicality of his approach, and the need to shrug off shoreside claptrap and clutter when going to sea. This diehard pitch in support of adventure is infectious, and Wharram spells out how a handy, but not professionally trained, do-it-yourselfer can succeed with his designs.

The semi-hooked can order “study plans” of one or more of the Wharram lines, and the subject of this review-the Tiki 30-is part of the Coastal Trek series. These study plans afford greater specific detail about Wharram designs and spell out the materials needed. They also lead you through a materials tally that includes details about epoxy resin, plywood types, sails, hardware, lines, an outboard auxiliary, and other bits and pieces.

Once you have figured out where you can come up with an average of 900 hours of free time-Wharrams DIY labor estimate-you may be close to plunking down $1,000 for detailed building plans. Those who take the leap and create their boat from scratch say it was worth the investment. Those who also complete the voyage they dreamed about have even more good things to say about the “Wharram Way.”

“Living on the sea” is one of Wharrams favorite phrases, and in many ways, hes as much a cruising enabler as he is a boat designer. Like Brown, and his lure of “Seasteading,” Wharram dangles a mostly realistic getaway plan in front of potential clients. The price point is attractive, at least as long as one views the labor commitment as part of the recreational experience. But when all the glue and paint has finally cured, the bottom line is that the Tiki 30, and most of the other Wharram cats, are best suited to cruisers willing to slip away without huge battery banks, large-volume water tanks, and with less mechanical propulsion reliance. Theres little sense in fitting granite countertops and aiming for a monohull-like interior in the limited space available aboard these catamarans.

One Particular Tiki

Occasionally, we take a close look at a non-mainstream vessel, believing that the old adage “one size fits all” has less merit among sailors. And near the top of our “cult following” list of sailboats are the Wharram-designed fleet of catamarans that are built by dedicated do-it-yourselfers as well as professionals. When we heard that voyager/boatbuilder Dave Martin had just finished a Wharram Tiki 30, we knew that the timing was right for a look at a unique vessel, its crew, and the designer.

A Rare breed

Dave and Jaja Martin and their three children are among the rarest breed of family cruisers, a couple who have sailed and savored the razor-thin edge between high risk and even higher reward. Twenty-plus years ago, when Dave sailed off in his completely restructured and highly modified Cal 25 Direction , he found that single-handing held little appeal. So, after an Atlantic crossing and a Caribbean wedding, he and Jaja followed the tradewind route around the world. The singlehander was now part of a family of five that had outgrown their pocket cruiser. So with a Cal 25 circumnavigation astern, thoughts of a next boat began to take shape.

The curtain lifted on the second act with the Martins rebuilding a 20-year-old, 33-foot steel sloop, literally tearing out the interior and starting from scratch. After an 18-month refit, there came an Arctic adventure that would carry Driver and its crew to Iceland, Norway, Greenland, Newfoundland, and the experience of living aboard during winters in which the rolling sea became as solid as granite. The Martins exemplify voyaging tenacity, but they earn even higher marks for their self-reliance. Theres no sponsorships for their adventures, or independent wealth to fuel a whim. They have taken very modest vessels and turned them into passage-making vehicles able to handle the task at hand. They worked their way around the world and met the locals as participants in their culture rather than as spectators.

Having first met Dave in the Bahamas in 1984 and coaxed him to come work in a boatyard that Practical Sailor Technical Editor Ralph Naranjo was running on Long Island Sound, Naranjo had the good fortune of seeing how seafaring goals and a shipwrights set of skills can set the stage for special cruising opportunities.

except where noted

Act 3 in the Martin saga is like a symphony with a major change in cadence. This time, priorities such as heavy weather survivability, high-volume stowage capacity, and ice resistance were off the drawing board. In their place came priorities such as simplicity and sailing efficiency, along with the imperative that this will be a “from scratch” Dave-built boat. No mean feat in itself, this boat-building endeavor was all the more impressive because the top of the “honey-do list” was a cottage to live in, a shop to work from, and the building of Dave and Jajas dream house. For most of us, this would relegate the boat project to pipedream status, a project that would likely never be started. But for the Martins, in just over a half-dozen years, the trifecta was complete.

The tide has turned, and their family life proceeds with a shoreside cadence. Adolescents are becoming young adults, and the Maine woods rather than a blue horizon dominate the picture. But true to form, as soon as the house was finished, the table saw gathered no rust. Nor did the other tools in the woodshop, as Dave began cutting carefully scribed curves on Okume plywood. One-at-a-time the amas for a 30-foot Tiki filled the extended garage boat shop. The choice of a double- hulled canoe catamaran doesn’t surprise anyone who knows Dave and Jaja. As sailing adventurers, they have yet to sing the same song twice.

Gravitating toward a new mode of cruising, they embraced the theme of light displacement, efficiency under sail, and simplicity. Spartan minimalism is the common thread in this and the other boats of the Martins two exemplary voyages. The elegance in each of these vessels has little to do with opulence, and everything to do with how the boats have fit the job at hand. Simplicity, functionality, and cost effectiveness abound, defining the approach Dave brings to boatbuilding. He still alludes to a down-the-road, larger monohull project for more oceanic adventure, but for now, its all about quick getaways, coastal cruises, light-air sailing, and shoal-draft exploration.

Design Details

The Wharram Tiki design was a natural choice for Dave because the designer has always approached his work from a builder/sailor perspective, rather than as an independent exercise in naval architecture. Simplicity and practicality rule, and in many ways these boats are the extreme opposite of whats displayed at boat shows across the country. Instead of a living room afloat, the Tiki 30 offers wood-grained camp-style accommodations that are enough for a weekend outing, or two-week summer cruises for hardy souls, but will hold little appeal to those looking for a vacation home afloat.

The real genius in this boat comes more from whats not present than whats found on board. No lead, no liners, and no inboard engine adds up to, or more specifically diminishes down to, a displacement that is so light that a low-tech, no-boom small sail plan can provide enough drive to make way, even when the sea surface is mirror smooth. In light zephyrs, this agile cat will tack and make progress to windward. Behaving like a waterbug skittering across the water, the boat reminds the person handling the butter-smooth tiller bar how important efficiency under sail can be.

Like all multihulls, the issue of initial stability is handled by placing the source of buoyancy well away from the centerline of the vessel without creating the skin drag found in a monohull with massive beam. The combination of a high length-to-beam ratio associated with each ama, and ultralight displacement, the Tiki 30 is a thoroughbred when it comes to efficiency and agility.

Thanks to this ultralight displacement status, the Tiki doesn’t need a cloud of sail to deliver light-air efficiency, and Wharram further reduces the need for a tall spar by leveraging aspect ratio through the use of a simple gaff-rigged mainsail. On one hand, the complication of hoisting both a peak and throat halyard adds some extra complexity, but the result is a higher center of effort (CE) with a lower masthead height, and when it comes to building a simple timber spar, it all makes sense. Yes, a carbon spar and PBO rigging would do a better job, but the cost would be more than a DIY builder spends on all of the materials used to build the rest of the boat.

Every multihull designer is concerned about racking or twisting loads induced in a structure as the heeling force and righting moment interplay on rolling sea. Some use massive bridgedeck structures to transfer rig loads from ama to ama. The Tiki 30 incorporates three well-engineered triangular beam structures and a modern rendition of the Polynesian art of lashing canoe hulls together. Care must be taken during construction to make sure that each beam has a flush fit with a well-reinforced portion of the ama deck, and that the polyester double-braid line used for the lashing is tensioned to designer specifications. These rigidly held athwartship supports may creak in a rolling seaway, but the connection between hulls is rugged and long lasting.

Performance

Under sail, the Tiki is an agile and responsive performer. It balances well, and its V-shaped sections and long shallow keel plus outboard rudders provide good directional stability and responsive steering. The underbody configuration allows the cat to be safely beached, and the complexity of dagger boards is eliminated. The lack of daggerboards has its drawback: Theres less windward capability, but the V-shaped hulls and long run of shallow keel does pretty well to windward without them.

Perhaps the most rigid design characteristic that can’t be circumvented is the importance of keeping its payload in check. This is a boat designed to stay on its lines not bog down and suffer the consequences of excess drag. Its long, lean amas knife through the sea, but their ability to put up with excess weight is minimal. More weight necessitates additional buoyancy, and as the V-shaped sections are submerged, significant increases in skin drag occur along with a loss of vital freeboard. This runs contrary to the design attributes of the vessel and results in performance setbacks and poor sea-keeping ability.

These fast, nimble, cost-effective cats garner a following among do-it-yourself builders because they are efficient to build. Wharrams streamlined approach to construction is a comprehensive blend of materials and hull-shape development that results in a strong, light structure. The expedited build process is free of finicky labor-intensive work and costly esoteric materials. In essence, Wharrams approach uses a minimal strong back, a stitch-and-glue joining process, and lines that allow large scarf-joined panels of high-quality marine plywood to be bent into the shape of a double-canoe catamaran. Bulkheads act as the athwartship formers, and as Wharram puts it, the builder uses a thickened epoxy filleting compound to “weld” the wood together.

The Tiki 30 is well-tailored for Spartan coastal cruising but a bit gossamer for ocean passagemaking, despite the fact that many have done so. Its ability to tuck into tight places, to perform admirably under power with only a 9.9-horsepower long-shaft, four-stroke kicker and its ability under sail give it high marks in our book. For many, camper/cruiser comfort is enough, and with the easy unfurling of a full cockpit awning, the boat becomes spacious enough at anchor to fulfill the dreams of a vacation cruise.

The Tiki is indeed a versatile platform, a pleasure to sail, and a project worth tackling if youre not too worried about dollars and cents. Wharram boats backyard-built pedigrees and their fringe appeal make them a tough sell on the used boat market, so if you plan to build one, you had better plan to sail it.

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Hi and hope all is well!

In the attached pictures you can see what has been done and where I am at this point (60% complete)… I live in Connecticut and in a perfect world, I would like someone to take it over- either with me or partnered or to just buy me out outright… The boat is amazingly special and needs to be finished and/or needs the right home… Any suggestions? 860-573-1154 -Johnny

It’s Wharram Tiki 30 BTW – Johnny

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THE BLUECAT 30

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Description

The bluecat 30 taking on the rough waters.

The BlueCat 30 excels where others falter, making light work of rough seas. Engineered for resilience, it ensures even inclement weather won't keep you from your fishing pursuits. With its superior speed and stability, the BlueCat 30 is always ready to put you on the fish first, providing unrivaled confidence and dependability in challenging conditions. Enjoy uninterrupted fishing adventures with the BlueCat 30 - your reliable companion against the elements.

The BlueCat 30 on a max speed run

Experience the adrenaline-pumping power of the BlueCat 30 in this exhilarating video showcasing a high-speed run. Witness the raw force of quad Mercury Racing 400R's as they propel the catamaran to an astounding 100 mph. Feel the thrill as the BlueCat 30 cuts through the waves effortlessly, demonstrating its unparalleled performance and proving why it stands unrivaled in the realm of high-speed fishing catamarans. Be prepared for a ride that's as fast as it is impressive, truly embodying the BlueCat promise of speed and stability.

The interior of the BlueCat 30

The BlueCat 30 takes spaciousness to new heights with its class-leading 12'6" beam. Offering an expansive deck layout, it provides an unparalleled level of room for both fishing and family fun. Whether casting lines, landing a big catch, or simply enjoying the sea's tranquility, there's always space to move freely and safely. Experience unimpeded fishing adventures or create lasting family memories onboard – the BlueCat 30, where ample space and supreme comfort converge.

Shipping Information

All boats are available to ship nationwide fob Indiantown, Florida.

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The BlueCat 30 takes spaciousness to new heights with its class-leading 12'6" beam. Offering an expansive deck layout, it provides an unparalleled level of room for both fishing and family fun

Photo Gallery

Experience the difference of a hand-made catamaran with the BlueCat 16 - where quality engineering meets masterful craftsmanship for superior on-water performance.

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Maine Cat 30

Sailboat specifications.

• Last update: 24th April 2020

Maine Cat 30's main features

Maine cat 30's main dimensions, maine cat 30's rig and sails, maine cat 30's performances, maine cat 30's auxiliary engine, maine cat 30's accommodations and layout.

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Sail Catamaran Boats 30ft(9.14m) to 35ft(10.67m) For Sale in Australia

Found 36 listings.

• 25ft > 30ft
• 30ft > 35ft
• 35ft > 40ft
• 40ft > 50ft

Seawind 1000

This highly respected popular Australian made model has been continuously pampered and ...

• 33' 0" / 10.06m
• AU $230,000

Easy 32 Peter Snell Catamaran 1998

Peter Snell Easy 32 Catamaran in good condition for her age - ready to sail away with ...

• 32' / 9.75m
• AU $140,000 Negotiable

Seawind 1000 1997 Under Repair New Mast, Reconditioned Motors

New mast, Under repair all offers considered ...

• 32' 10" / 10.00m
• AU $60,000 Make an offer

Rogers 31 performance cruising Catamaran 'RODGER RAMJET' exclusively for sale with ...

• 30' 6" / 9.30m
• AU $165,000

Rogers 10.5 Chi

COMING TO MARKET SOON. REGISTER YOUR INTEREST Request information online here and you will ...

• 34' 5" / 10.50m

Malcolm Tennant 10.5 Cruising Catamaran

True to her designers intentions Dream On is light, fast and a pleasure to sail with great ...

• 1995 approx
• AU $179,000

Seawind 1000 'Summer Wind'

FOR SALE: Summer Wind is a 1998 Seawind 1000. In immaculate condition, she has been ...

• AU $210,000

Crowther Harrier 10M

Livewire is an ex-racing cat built light and strong. She has a history of winning and has ...

• AU $136,000

Fountaine Pajot Tobago 35

Priced Reduced - 35' Fontaine Pajot Tobago Catamaran - This vessel is ready to go. ...

• 35' 0" / 10.67m
• AU $195,000 Or nearest offer

Seawind 1000 "Irene J"

Irene J is offered for sale for the first time since she was purchased new in 2003. Her owner ...

• AU $199,000

Wharram Tiki 30

Centre pod, Boat just been refurbished and painted New Roller furler and ...

• 30' / 9.14m
• 2015 approx
• AU $36,000 Or nearest offer

Australian-manufactured Seawind Catamarans are renowned for their robust construction, better ...

• AU $199,500 No more to pay - sail away

How Much Does A Catamaran Cost?

‍ Catamarans are known to cost more than monohulls. But what do new and used catamarans cost, and what can you sell one for?

New cruising catamarans cost between $200,000 and $1,000,000, with an average price of about $500,000. Used cruising catamarans cost between $200,000 and $600,000. Small recreational catamarans, usually under 20 feet in length, cost under $50,000.

In this article, we’ll examine the average cost of new and used cruising catamarans. We’ll also showcase the average prices of small recreational catamarans, such as the famous Hobie Cat. Additionally, we’ll cover the factors that influence new and used catamaran prices and how to get a fair price on your next purchase.

We conducted a careful analysis of the new and used catamaran market and reported our findings in this article.

Table of contents

‍ Factors that Influence Catamaran Prices

Catamaran prices are influenced by numerous factors, namely size, and type. Large catamarans are, predictably, more expensive than small catamarans. But unlike monohulls, catamaran sizes don’t vary extensively. Prices differ substantially between large and small catamarans, and so do their uses.

This is because there are two main types of catamarans on the market, and they’re vastly different sizes. The large type is the cruising catamaran, which is almost never less than 30 feet in length or more than 50 feet in length. The other type is the recreational or racing catamaran, which has no cabin and rarely exceeds 30 feet in length.

Small Racing Catamaran Cost

Small racing catamarans are a niche market, and their prices are pretty consistent for specific makes and models. These vessels don’t have a cabin, so people don’t usually spend hundreds of thousands for them. They’re fun boats for people who enjoy going fast on the water during weekends and at regattas.

Factors that influence small catamaran prices are usually its condition, size, and make. The most popular racing catamarans, like Hobie Cats, sell for anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the size and condition. You can reliably find an open racing catamaran for less than $50,000, and usually around $10,000 to $20,000

New Cruising Catamaran Prices

Here’s where things get pricey. New cruising catamarans are some of the most expensive sailboats you can buy, second only to trimarans and other advanced aluminum and carbon yachts. New cruising catamarans never sell for less than $100,000, and the average price is around $350,000. A new cruising catamaran, depending on the length, can sell for up to $1,000,000.

New monohull sailboats are much less costly. A premium monohull built by a well-known manufacturer sells for between $175,000 and $250,000, with some outliers breaching the $350,000 mark. You can reliably expect a catamaran to cost almost double what a monohull of equal length does. That said, the additional comfort and unmatched speed are well worth the cost.

New Cruising Catamaran Cost Factors

What makes one new catamaran sell for $150,000 while another sells for $350,000? Other than size, there are a few factors that lead to such a dramatic price disparity for two seemingly similar vessels. The brand has something to do with it, but the design is the key element in pricing.

A basic cruising catamaran has few frills and utilizes standard hardware and sailing equipment. A high-end cruising catamaran in the same size and weight category has dramatically different equipment, automation, and even sailing characteristics. A high-end catamaran requires thousands of additional hours to design and develop hull shape, systems, and accommodation and thus costs significantly more.

And speaking of accommodations—the overall level of fit and finish below decks can contribute substantially to the price. High-end catamarans with central HVAC, advanced energy-saving systems, automation, and all the associated equipment add a lot to the initial cost. Additionally, high-end custom interiors require expensive materials and hours of specialized labor.

Basic cruising catamarans can be constructed and sold for little more than the price of a high-end monohull. This is because the accommodations and equipment used aboard are standard, and therefore not too disproportionately priced. Most cruising catamarans fall into this category, as they’re already quite expensive, to begin with without air conditioning, automatic sail controls, and carbon fiber masts.

Used Cruising Catamaran Prices

Used catamarans cost less than brand new models, but they still cost more than many brand new monohulls. The average price of an average-sized 40-something—foot used catamaran is around $250,000. Age doesn’t vary much, as these kinds of catamarans have only been popular since the 1990s.

The lowest price you’ll probably find for a used catamaran is about $100,000. At this price, you can get a smaller old catamaran or a vessel that needs work, like a new mast, new rigging, or hull repairs. This compromise is well worth it to some, who can save upwards of $50,000 by making repairs.

The priciest used catamarans typically top out at $700,000 to $1,000,000. These vessels, which range in size from 45 feet to 55 feet, are the cream of the crop and usually only a couple of years old. For example, a 45-foot 2019 Lagoon 450F with its advanced wave-piercing hull design and luxurious interior sells for around $550,000 to $620,000 used and sells for $635,500 new. As you can see, late-model catamarans suffer from very little depreciation.

Used Cruising Catamaran Cost Factors

The prices of used cruising catamarans vary wildly, as there are many more factors at play. The most significant pricing factor is the age of the boat. Newer and late-model catamarans built by respectable manufacturers cost almost as much as they do now, which is always in the $100,000+ range. This is limiting to many sailors who don’t want to spend a mortgage on a sailboat.

Older used catamarans are much more reasonably priced, and the condition is the primary factor. This includes the condition of the interior, rigging, and hull. Famous catamarans will cost more regardless of their age or condition, as these vessels have a large following due to some mystical characteristics like handling, speed, or seaworthiness.

Reputation plays a big part in the used catamaran world due to its relatively small size. Catamaran people know each other—and they all hang out on the same online forums. These people have an actual and quantifiable influence on used catamaran pricing.

Why are Catamarans So Expensive?

Many sailors wonder why catamarans cost so much more than monohulls. After all, it usually costs more to buy a 15-year-old 40-foot catamaran than a brand new 40-foot monohull. There are a few reasons for this, and it comes down to a combination of construction cost, demand, and ability.

Catamarans offer numerous undeniable handling benefits over monohulls. For one, they’re stable and dramatically increase passenger and crew comfort in rolling seas. They’re safe and easy to handle and very difficult to capsize. Additionally, they have much more usable interior storage and living space and accommodations for many people.

Catamarans have the upper hand with speed, as they aren’t bound by the restrictions of hull speed. Catamarans can sometimes travel at twice the speed of monohulls, which reduces costs and increases your practical cruising range.

Additionally, the cost to design, develop, and build catamarans is much higher than monohulls. Catamarans require careful engineering and strength of materials calculations, as the two hulls must be joined in the middle and also support the mast.

Catamarans use up much more material than monohulls, as they require two separate hulls with living spaces and an enclosed center cockpit area. The materials themselves are often higher quality, along with the additional cost of advanced and automatic winches, navigation systems, and controls throughout the vessel.

Design and materials alone can double or triple production costs for a catamaran, not to mention the expensive man-hours and skilled labor involved in the building process. The benefits catamarans provide to their owners keep prices high on the used market, and their limited production can never keep up with demand.

How to Tell if a Catamaran is Fairly Priced

How do you know if you’re getting a good deal on a catamaran, and what should you sell yours for? Many people consult catamaran dealerships and boat appraisers, which are a good “official” resource for boat pricing. That said, the online catamaran community shouldn’t be overlooked.

The forums are an excellent source of real-world expertise on catamaran pricing. As we mentioned previously, the ‘catamaran guys’ usually congregate online and keep track of the used catamaran market. Their consensus can help you figure out what a fair market price is—and what catamaran buyers are willing to pay. After all, they’re your target market.

Before asking, it’s a good idea to check the market yourself and see what other boats are listed and sold for. This can give you a ballpark idea of what to expect. On many boat trading sites, you can filter for sold listings and see what boats like yours recently sold for.

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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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