Power catamarans yachts are more and more becoming favorites in boating and yachting circles. This is because catamarans in general are seen to provide a more stable and pleasurable ride due to their intrinsic built and design. The two-hull catamarans have many advantages (read more about the advantages of catamarans) over monohulls.
There are several types of power catamarans and it is important to choose the right boat for the right purpose. The two basic types of power catamaran are the planing craft and the displacement vessel. Generally, the planing catamaran is designed for flat water. However, it can still perform better than a traditional monohull in rougher conditions. Typically, a planing catamaran has a low deadrise hard chine hull. This allows the boat to plane on the waters surface, reducing water drag. The displacement vessel would normally have round bilge to lessen the the wetted surface drag as its slim hull slices through the water ignoring the wave drag.
The differences in hull form basically determine the varying resistance of the catamarans when moving at various speeds.
While catamarans can also be powered by sail, power cats are getting more popular these days especially for those who have been into sailing for a longer time. It is almost like a natural progression to move from sail to power. Thus, the power catamaran is considered a good option when one would rather prefer to relax during the sail than get busy with dealing with the rig and sails all the time.
Power catamaran yachts are easier to maneuver and operate than their sail-powered counterparts. For obvious reasons, there are no sails, mast, or rigging to worry about. They are also easier to
In one way it can be said that “every sailing cat with auxiliary engines is, in effect, a power cat with a rig and set of sails”. However, today's modern power cats are designed as power cats from the keel up. The Lagoon 43 is an excellent example of this.
For some it is a natural progression - from sailing to power, as one grows older and does not want to deal with the rig and sails the ease of just powering becomes evident. Power cats are much easier to deal with then their sailing cousins. They are easier to operate because of no sails, mast, or rigging.
Power cats are also easier to maneuver because the engines are located much farther apart. It also uses power more efficiently, requiring less horsepower with better speeds and longer range.
Compared to traditional monohulls, power catamarans are more stable and comfortable. There is more space to move around, allowing riders to enjoy comfort and privacy.
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