Catamarans are extremely popular, accounting for around 80% of the market. We have recently seen a very distinct and clear Monohull Revival among specific travellers. After years of the floating condo trend, many guests are returning to the classic single-hull for reasons other than the fact that they are a more budget-friendly option for your vacation.
If you are still trying to decide on your selected vessel for your next vacation to the BVI or your first visit, this article is for you. Here is why the monohull is making a comeback and whether it’s the right choice for your vacation.
| Feature | Crewed Monohull (Sailboat) | Crewed Catamaran |
| Sailing Feel | The “Purist” High: Thrilling heeling (leaning) and tactile feedback from the waves. | The “Level” High: Stays flat; you can leave a drink on the table while underway. |
| Wind Performance | Superior Upwind: Can point closer to the wind, reaching destinations faster in a breeze. | Downwind King: Exceptionally stable and fast when the wind is behind you. |
| Space & Layout | Intimate & Traditional: Social cockpit-centric design; cozy, contiguous cabins. | Expansive & Private: Wide-beam “Villa” layout; cabins located in separate hulls for max privacy. |
| Draft (Depth) | Deep Keel: Requires deeper water; anchors further out in some bays for safety. | Shallow Draft: Can “beach” or anchor in 4-5ft of water (perfect for Anegada). |
| The “Silence” Factor | Silent Luxury: Built for sailing; minimal engine use between the islands. | Generator-Heavy: Often requires the generator to run 24/7 for A/C and appliances. |
| Maneuverability | Agile: Can tack quickly and fit into tight “Monohull-only” slips in local marinas. | Dual-Engine Precision: Can spin 360° on its own axis, making docking in tight spots easy. |
| Best For… | Active couples, sailing enthusiasts, and “Digital Detoxers.” | Large families, first-time sailors, and “Social Voyagers.” |
Sailing Purism and Feeling the Sail
We have seen a trend among vacationers and guests toward an analog experience. On a catamaran, you are high up on the flybridge, which can make true lovers of the sea feel disconnected from the water when the vessel is in motion. A monohull leans into the wind. For many, that slice and slide through the waves, such as when travelling through the Sir Francis Drake Channel, is the entire point of their vacation. They want to feel the sensation of sailing rather than being on a more stable boat. You can feel the vibration of the rudder, the tension of the sails. With a catamaran, you can feel a bit numb at the helm; they just don’t offer the true feel of navigating the high seas.
Budgeting and Secret Luxury
The price gap has widened significantly, with charter costs for a 45-foot monohull up to 40-50% lower than for a similarly aged 45-foot catamaran. The price difference could see you upgrade to a captain, a full team, and a professional chef, rather than cutting certain parts of your charter. You can also get around a lot easier if you are making trips to land. Catamarans often struggle to find space in crowded spots such as The Bight or Soper’s Hole, whereas a monohull has a narrow beam, which makes it a lot easier to slide into those tight morning fields or find a spot at a marina dock.
Cosy Interiors Vs An Apartment on the Water
The architecture of monohulls has evolved into designs featuring prominent hull windows, and modern boats focus on bringing natural light into the vessel. Monohulls offer a more snug atmosphere than a catamaran, which can feel like a giant space on vacation. A catamaran can feel a bit too large for smaller groups, especially with 2 to 4 people. Monohull designs feel much less like you are downstairs on the vessel and offer wonderful spaces that provide an intimate experience, perfect for couples and families. Both styles have their appeal, but if a monohull vacation appeals to you, it’s a great option!
Who is Monohull Best Suited For?
- Work-from-home duo or vacationers: if you are working remotely, a monohull is a much more cost-effective office with the same Starlink capabilities.
- Sailing enthusiasts absolutely love the monohull experience. Not recommended for those who don’t enjoy a bumpy ride when on the ocean. You experience the true sailing experience and the mechanics of sailing first-hand.
- Romantics. Nothing is more romantic than a classic monohull anchored under the stars at Anegada.
If you have a big party or need a huge amount of space, a catamaran is probably best for you. If you want a high-performance, budget-savvy and authentic BVI escape, the monohull revival and the islands are calling.
Time to book your vacation? We are one of the leading independent agents for Crewed Sailboat Charters in the BVI. Speak to us today to find out more about our crewed sailboats, speak about our amazing captains and crew and book your dream vacation to the BVI today.
