Introduction to Catamarans

with

Darren & Amanda Seltzer

Outer Passage

Learn everything about modern cruising catamarans and the design differences that set them apart.

90-Minute Live Session

On Demand Replay Available

Live Q&A

In this online class, you’ll discover the exciting world of catamarans. Whether you're new to multihull sailing or considering transitioning from a monohull, this introduction will give you the knowledge and confidence to explore catamarans. We’ll journey through the rich history of multi-hulls, from their Polynesian origins to today’s cutting-edge designs. Learn what to expect when transitioning from a monohull, including handling, comfort, and performance. Finally, find out how to gain hands-on catamaran sailing experience, whether through training passages, island charters, or ownership. Your catamaran adventure starts here—Join us and let this online class be your first step into the thrill of Catamaran sailing!

FREE

Introduction to Catamarans

Online class overview

This online class is tailored towards all sailing enthusiasts, multihull aficionados, and anyone interested in voyaging on a Catamaran. You will learn the rich history of multi-hull sailing and how the modern catamaran evolved into the popular cruising vessel it is today. You’ll gain an understanding of the key components and design differences that make catamarans unique, as well as tips for transitioning from monohulls to multihulls. Finally, we’ll share the best ways to gain hands-on experience and start your journey into the world of catamaran sailing.

List of topics:

The Evolution of Catamarans: A Brief History of Multi-Hulls
Key Components of Modern Cruising Catamarans
Exploring Design Differences Among Catamaran Models
Making the Transition from Monohulls to Catamarans
Building Experience: How to Start Sailing Catamarans

FEATURES OF MODERN CATAMARANS

Stability

Catamarans offer unmatched stability, staying level even in windy conditions, unlike monohulls that heel. Their smooth ride reduces seasickness and makes sailing more comfortable, especially for beginners or families. Catamarans are also stable at anchor, reducing rolling compared to monohulls. This makes them more comfortable for relaxation or sleeping, even in less protected anchorages.

COMFORT

With a wide beam, catamarans provide more living space, including spacious salons and private cabins in each hull. Their design enhances comfort and privacy, making them perfect for groups. Low transoms on catamarans provide easy water access for swimming, diving, or launching dinghies, enhancing the enjoyment of water-based activities.

Versatility

Catamarans are faster and more fuel-efficient than monohulls due to reduced hull drag and lightweight construction. Their large deck space accommodates solar panels, making catamarans a good choice for off-grid, long-distance sailing. Catamarans also have a relatively shallow draft which opens up unique sailing destinations.

Your Host

Darren & Amanda Seltzer

Darren and his wife Amanda have racked up over 40,000NM, sailing the Viking route across the Northern Atlantic to Greenland and the U.K., navigating to the edges of the Mediterranean Sea, and completing two circumnavigations of the northern Atlantic Ocean from Europe to the Caribbean. In these sailing expeditions, they have grown an appreciation for and love for the sea. Now they share that love with their sail training business Outer Passage, where they host adventurous souls who are multihull curious aboard a Balance 526 performance sailing catamaran.

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Online Class Registration

@ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET (90 min)

Regular Price

ASA Member Price

On-Demand Access

All registrations include unlimited on-demand access to the recordings of the live online class. So if you are unable to attend live you can still register and watch at your leisure.

ASA MEMBER DISCOUNT

American Sailing Members can claim their discount in the Member Portal. If you’re not a current member then for only $59/year you can join or renew today!