Is a catamaran or a monohull better for cruising Thailand?

A catamaran gives more living space, shade and stability at anchor, and her shallow draft suits Thai bays. A monohull costs less to buy and berth, sails better upwind and is easier to berth and haul out. The right choice depends on how the boat will be used.

Do catamarans cost more to keep in Thailand?

Usually yes. Phuket Yacht Haven charges multihulls double unless berthed alongside, and Phuket Boat Lagoon adds 50% for catamarans.

Catamaran or Monohull for Cruising Thailand?

For cruising Thailand, a catamaran gives you more living space, shade and stability at anchor, and her shallow draft suits the bays of Phang Nga and the islands. A monohull costs less to buy and to berth, sails better upwind and is easier to find a marina berth or haul-out for. Which is right depends on how you will use the boat.

This is one of the first questions buyers ask Paul. Here is an honest comparison for the way people actually use boats in Thailand.

Why catamarans suit Thailand

Living space and shade. A cat's saloon and cockpit are on one level, with far more room per foot. In tropical heat, shade and airflow matter all day.
Stable at anchor. Many Andaman anchorages roll in a swell. A catamaran sits flatter, which makes life aboard more comfortable.
Shallow draft. A catamaran can anchor closer to beaches and get into shallower bays around Phang Nga, Krabi and the islands.
Charter demand. Catamarans are popular with charter guests, which helps resale and charter income.

Why a monohull can be the better choice

Lower running costs. Marinas charge catamarans more. In Phuket, Yacht Haven charges multihulls double unless alongside, and Boat Lagoon adds 50%.
Lower price per foot. A monohull usually costs less to buy than a catamaran of the same length and age.
Sailing performance. A good monohull points higher and sails better to windward, if sailing itself is what you love.
Easier berths and haul-outs. A catamaran needs a wide berth and a lift that fits her beam, which not every marina and yard has.

Questions to ask yourself

Will you mostly live aboard and anchor, or mostly sail?
How many people will be on board, and for how long?
Where will you keep the boat, and what does that marina charge for your beam?
Do you plan to charter her?

If comfort at anchor and space for family and guests come first, a catamaran usually wins. If budget and sailing come first, a monohull often does.

See the boats

Browse catamarans for sale in Thailand, sailing yachts for sale or every boat we have for sale, and read what it costs to own a yacht in Thailand.

Still deciding? Paul has sailed both for 60 years. Tell him how you will use the boat and he will tell you honestly which suits you.

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