Why are catamarans fast?

Answer 1

Catamarans are faster than single-hulled boats due to a few factors:

* Narrow hulls -- Their two hulls are shaped with narrow beams. This allows them to slice through the water much more efficiently. * Leverage -- When the catamaran catches a good gust of wind, one hull digs in while the other lifts up (and out in some cases). This leverage allows the catamaran to follow a much harder line with very little sideways drag. A single hull is relying only on the design of its keel to keep it from dragging sideways through the water. * Absence of amenities --There is usually little or no cabin compartment. Single hulled boats often have water and septic tanks, galleys, heads and quarters with beds to weigh it down. Most catamarans have very few amenities making it much lighter. * Riding high -- They have a very small draft. Since they are lighter, they rest higher on the water (sometimes under a foot in length). Less displacement equals less drag equals higher speed.