March 21, 2012
When embarking on a Caribbean Sailing Vacation there are many decisions to be made. One of the more popular questions is: Charter a Catamaran or a Monohull.
Monohull Sailing Charter
True blue sailors will not even enter into this discussion. Standing at the helm of a monohull, pointing into the wind, sails hoisted at full mast there is a feeling of connecting with sailor’s from all ages past. The desire to combine the elements of wind and water appeals to the adventurous soul. Cutting through the waves, no engine sounds, wind blowing in your face , you feel as if you are traveling at amazing speeds Although monohulls have been the popular choice of charterers in years past, catamarans are gaining popularity in certain sailing regions.
Catamaran Sailing Charter
Catamarans are now built with exceptional safety features as well as the ultimate in comfort. A 42’ catamaran is equivalent to a 52’ monohull. The wide beam of a catamaran allows large cockpits with ample seating, dining and sunning areas. The galley and salon are spacious and comfortable. No step downs and bright salons with windows at eye level. Galleys have large work areas with built in appliance and stoves do not have to be gimbaled. Spacious trampolines are great for sunning or sleeping under the stars. Twin hulls also offer privacy with larger suites. Often catamarans are configured with two or more queen staterooms.
As to the comfort of the ride, a catamaran is fast and flat, less rocking when on the hook, making cooking and sleeping a lot easier as well as more stable for those prone to seasickness. Catamarans rock aft to fore not beam to beam. There is no heeling on a catamaran giving comfort to those unfamiliar with life on the ocean. The only time this changes is when there are cross swells therefore it is best to have a catamaran that has good deck clearance and a semi rounded under carriage. Also cats have twin engines and can enter a slip in a marina with ease.
The decision is yours and catamarans and monohulls are both available in abundance in the Caribbean. They can be charted as a bareboat, captain only or full crew complete with gourmet chef. If you have charted a monohull in the past , perhaps this is the year to try something new.
SalwithTerry LLC offers a huge variety of charter boats in various sizes and your choice of monohulls and catamarans. Contact Captain Terry and view different options at www.sailwithterry. Personal attention is given to your customized vacation itinerary. Phone 941 266 0296 or email sailwithterry@gmail.com.
