BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide
Power Catamarans: Why This Twin-Hull Motorboat Wins Over More Renters
Two hulls, less heel, less fuel: what sets a power catamaran apart from a classic motorboat, and when to choose one for a rental.
"Catamaran" and "sailing" often come to mind together, but rental fleets increasingly include power catamarans — "power-cats" that borrow the twin-hull design of the sailing world and apply it to mechanical propulsion.
Two hulls, a very different wetted surface
On a power catamaran, the total wetted surface of the two slim hulls stays well below that of a single hull of equivalent capacity — which cuts drag, and therefore the power needed to reach a given speed. A comparative study published in the Engineering And Technology Journal, measuring the resistance of a monohull and a catamaran of the same size in shallow water, recorded 35% lower resistance for the catamaran at comparable speed (see the study on Google Scholar) — one explanation for the often more moderate fuel consumption seen on these boats, to compare model by model with our fuel budget guide.
A stability that changes life on board
The spacing between the two hulls gives a far more stable footing than an equivalent-sized monohull, with almost no heel even when loaded to one side — a real argument for sailing with children, older passengers or guests unused to boats. The deck, often a single level spanning both hulls, also offers more outdoor living space than a classic motorboat of comparable length, a point detailed in our sailing-side comparison catamaran versus monohull.
Limits worth knowing before booking
- Greater overall beam: some pontoons or berths cannot take every catamaran, worth checking before booking;
- Different docking manoeuvres: two independent engines actually make pivoting on the spot easier, once you learn the technique;
- Rental price generally higher than a monohull motorboat of the same length, worth budgeting for.
When to choose one
A power catamaran suits a large group particularly well, or any outing where comfort matters more than raw speed — a floating wedding, a birthday, a multi-generation family day out.
Compare the listings
Boat-Comparator aggregates the power catamarans available from Boataround, SamBoat and Click&Boat: compare sizes and crewed options by destination.
Free checklist
Rent a boat with no nasty surprises
Deposit, insurance, check-in inspection, fuel, navigation areas, weather: our checklist covers everything to verify before booking and on departure day. Sign up to access it and receive our tips by email.
Thank you! Your checklist is ready: Rent a boat with no nasty surprises →