20 Things I Wish I Knew Before Cruising on a Catamaran

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Cruising on a catamaran looks like the dream—but the reality is far more complicated.
In this video, I’m sharing the 20 things I wish I knew before cruising on a catamaran: the mistakes, the surprises, the systems nobody explains, and the tradeoffs that can make or break your experience.

From weight management, helm design, slamming, anchoring behavior, and bridge deck clearance, to the realities of twin-engine maintenance and living full-time at anchor—this video is a complete masterclass on understanding what catamaran cruising is really like.

If you’re thinking about buying a catamaran, chartering one, or starting full-time cruising, this is the most honest breakdown you’ll find.
And stick around until the end—I include a 5-minute catamaran buyer’s filter, a simple checklist that instantly tells you whether a catamaran fits your mission, your lifestyle, and your budget.

In this video you’ll learn:
• The real differences between cats and monohulls
• Why weight destroys catamaran performance
• How bridge deck clearance affects comfort and safety
• Why helm position matters more than layout
• What twin engines actually mean for maintenance
• How anchoring a catamaran works (and why it’s different)
• Why charter layouts can be a disaster for cruisers
• The truths about slamming, tacking, and upwind performance
• How to load, trim, and balance a catamaran correctly
• What makes some cats terrible for marinas and great at anchor
• How to evaluate safety systems on a cat
• What to look for before buying any cruising catamaran

Whether you're planning to cruise the Caribbean, explore the Med, or cross an ocean, this guide will help you avoid the expensive mistakes most catamaran buyers make—and choose a boat that fits your actual cruising life.

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Fair winds—and smart decisions.

Copyright Disclaimer

This video may include copyrighted material used under the “fair use” principle for educational and informational purposes. Such use aims to provide commentary, analysis, or added value in compliance with Section 107 of U.S. Copyright Law. If you believe that your copyrighted work has been used improperly, please contact me directly before pursuing any formal action. Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.

Safety Disclaimer
These videos reflect my personal experience. They do not replace professional training. Always sail in compliance with safety rules and maritime regulations.