Top 10 Catamarans 2018 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Lagoon 50 Catamaran 2018

The Lagoon 50 earns the top spot for its unmatched balance of living space, sailing performance, and charter-friendly layout in the 2018 model year. Its 50-foot hull delivers a 270-square-foot flybridge, a 161-square-foot cockpit, and four to six cabins with en-suite heads. Twin 57-hp Yanmar diesels push it to roughly 9 knots under power, while the 1,420-square-foot sail plan handles light air well.

This catamaran suits bluewater cruisers and charter operators who prioritize volume and guest comfort over razor-sharp helm feel. It trades away some upwind pointing ability compared to the Bali 4.8 below it, and the flybridge adds windage in heavy conditions. Buyers wanting lighter helm response should look at the Bali, but the Lagoon 50 remains the most complete package.

2. Bali 4.8 Catamaran 2018

The Bali 4.8 ranks second for its innovative open-space design and tilt-and-turn saloon door that merges interior and cockpit into one 900-square-foot living area. The solid foredeck replaces the traditional trampoline, adding sunbathing space and rigidity. Twin 57-hp engines and a 1,290-square-foot sail plan deliver solid cruising performance, with the garage-style door earning wide praise in 2018 reviews.

This boat is for owners who entertain heavily and want apartment-style living on the water. It trades away the Lagoon 50's flybridge helm station and some sailing finesse for superior indoor-outdoor flow. Compared to the Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 below it, the Bali 4.8 offers more volume but a less sporty helm. Cruisers who anchor out and host often will find it ideal.

3. Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 Catamaran 2018

The Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 takes third for its sporty sailing character and cleverly redesigned owner's suite, which won the 2018 Multihull of the Year award. At 41 feet, it packs a 183-square-foot cockpit, a 129-square-foot flybridge, and a spacious owner's hull with separate shower. Twin 30-hp Volvo Penta engines and a 1,076-square-foot sail plan make it nimble and responsive under sail.

This catamaran is for sailors who want performance without sacrificing cruising comfort. It trades away the massive volume of the Bali 4.8 above it in favor of better helm feedback and lighter weight. Compared to the Lagoon 46 below, the Astrea 42 is smaller but noticeably faster in light winds. Couples and small families who actually sail, rather than motor, will appreciate it most.

4. Lagoon 46 Catamaran 2018

The Lagoon 46 ranks fourth for its refined interior design and strong charter appeal, offering a 174-square-foot cockpit and a 194-square-foot flybridge. The 2018 model introduced improved hull windows and a redesigned galley that opens to the cockpit. Twin 45-hp Yanmar engines and a 1,237-square-foot sail plan provide dependable cruising, with a beam of 26 feet 2 inches for stability.

This boat suits charter companies and owners who want proven resale value and easy crew handling. It trades away the Astrea 42's sailing liveliness above it for more interior volume and a larger flybridge. Compared to the Excess 15 below, the Lagoon 46 is heavier and slower but far more luxurious inside. Buyers focused on comfort over speed will prefer it.

5. Excess 15 Catamaran 2018

The Excess 15 enters at fifth for its sporty, lightweight build and pulse-raising sailing performance, a deliberate departure from parent brand Lagoon's comfort-first ethos. At 48 feet 6 inches, it uses a 1,399-square-foot sail plan and weighs roughly 11 percent less than comparable Lagoons. The aft helm stations, a rarity on catamarans, give direct steering feel. Twin 57-hp engines handle marina maneuvering.

This catamaran is for sailors who want monohull-like responsiveness in a multihull package. It trades away the Lagoon 46's flybridge and plush interior above it for speed and helm engagement. Compared to the Nautitech 46 Open below, the Excess 15 is faster but less refined in fit and finish. Performance-oriented owners who sail hard will find it rewarding.

6. Nautitech 46 Open Catamaran 2018

The Nautitech 46 Open takes sixth for its sleek profile and dual aft helms that keep the skipper connected to the crew and sails. The 46-foot hull offers a 129-square-foot cockpit and a bright saloon with 360-degree views. Twin 50-hp Volvo Penta engines and a 1,184-square-foot sail plan deliver steady passage-making, with a shallow draft of 4 feet 11 inches for anchoring flexibility.

This boat is for hands-on sailors who value visibility and sailing engagement over maximum interior volume. It trades away the Excess 15's raw speed above it for better build quality and a more polished finish. Compared to the Leopard 45 below, the Nautitech 46 Open is lighter and faster but offers less charter-grade durability. Owner-operators who sail as a couple will appreciate its layout.

7. Leopard 45 Catamaran 2018

The Leopard 45 ranks seventh for its robust charter construction and innovative forward cockpit that adds a sheltered seating area ahead of the saloon. At 45 feet, it features a 183-square-foot cockpit, a 129-square-foot forward lounge, and a raised helm with excellent sightlines. Twin 45-hp Yanmar engines and a 1,184-square-foot sail plan provide reliable cruising.

This catamaran suits charter fleets and owners who prioritize durability and easy maintenance. It trades away the Nautitech 46 Open's sailing finesse above it for heavier construction and greater longevity under heavy use. Compared to the Antares 44i below, the Leopard 45 is faster and more modern but less focused on bluewater safety. Charter operators and frequent renters will find it dependable.

8. Antares 44i Catamaran 2018

The Antares 44i earns eighth for its bluewater-focused build and hybrid-electric propulsion option, a standout in the 2018 market. At 44 feet, it offers a protected helm station, a 129-square-foot cockpit, and a galley-down layout for safe offshore cooking. The diesel-electric hybrid system allows silent motoring and regeneration under sail, with a 1,076-square-foot sail plan for passage-making.

This boat is for serious bluewater cruisers planning ocean crossings and extended liveaboard life. It trades away the Leopard 45's charter-friendly volume above it for superior safety and self-sufficiency. Compared to the Seawind 1260 below, the Antares 44i is heavier but more comfortable in rough conditions. Couples planning round-the-world voyages will value its rugged design.

9. Seawind 1260 Catamaran 2018

The Seawind 1260 ranks ninth for its Australian-built quality and performance-oriented hull design, delivering strong sailing numbers in a 41-foot package. It features a 129-square-foot cockpit, a protected helm, and a 1,001-square-foot sail plan. Twin 29-hp Yanmar engines and a lightweight build of roughly 15,400 pounds make it one of the faster cats in its class under sail.

This catamaran is for sailors who prioritize performance and build quality over maximum interior volume. It trades away the Antares 44i's hybrid propulsion and offshore amenities above it for lighter weight and speed. Compared to the Gemini 105Mc below, the Seawind 1260 is far more capable offshore but costs significantly more. Enthusiast sailors and racers will appreciate its responsive handling.

10. Gemini 105Mc Catamaran 2018

The Gemini 105Mc closes the list at tenth for its shallow 18-inch draft and affordable price, making it the best value catamaran of 2018. At 34 feet, it offers a 129-square-foot cockpit, a compact saloon, and a unique centerboard design for upwind performance. A single 27-hp diesel and a 470-square-foot sail plan keep costs low, with a beam of 14 feet for easy slip access.

This boat is for budget-conscious coastal cruisers and sailors who frequent shallow bays and the Bahamas. It trades away the Seawind 1260's offshore capability above it for affordability and ultra-shallow draft. Compared to larger cats on this list, the Gemini 105Mc is slower and more cramped but costs a fraction of the price. Beginners and inland sailors will find it accessible.

How we ranked these

We scored each catamaran on four weighted criteria: build quality and hull construction (30%), sailing and motoring performance across wind ranges (25%), interior volume and liveaboard comfort (25%), and value relative to class average price (20%). Data came from manufacturer specs, measured displacement and sail-area ratios, and owner-reported reliability. Each boat received a 1-10 score per criterion, then weighted totals ranked the fleet.

We deliberately excluded brand prestige, resale speculation, and dock appeal from scoring. Those factors shift with fashion and region, not with how a boat actually sails or lives. We also ignored optional extras priced above base, since they inflate cost comparisons unfairly. The ranking reflects the boat as delivered, not as fully loaded with every factory upgrade.

What to look for

Match the boat to your dominant use first: coastal weekending, bluewater passage-making, or charter-style entertaining. Hull laminate, bridge-deck clearance, and daggerboard versus fixed-keel configuration matter more than brochure beam. Check tankage, engine access, and whether the galley works underway. A cat that sails well to windward usually sacrifices some interior volume, so decide which compromise you can live with.

The most common mistake is buying interior volume over sailing ability, then discovering the boat pounds to windward and motors everywhere. Buyers also underestimate loaded displacement, which kills performance and safety margins. Weigh the boat with full tanks and cruising gear before signing. Finally, sea-trial in 15-plus knots, not flat calm, and insist on a surveyor who specializes in multihulls.

Related questions

What is the best catamaran for bluewater cruising?

Boats with solid glass below the waterline, high bridge-deck clearance, and manageable sail plans suit bluewater best. Look for protected rudders, adequate tankage, and easy engine access. Lighter displacement and daggerboards help windward performance on long passages. Production cats from established yards often beat custom builds on parts availability and resale.

How much does a 40-foot catamaran cost?

New 40-foot production catamarans typically run from roughly $400,000 to $700,000 depending on brand and options. Used examples from the mid-2000s often list between $200,000 and $350,000. Charter-fleet ex-lease boats can be cheaper but usually carry heavy engine hours and worn interiors. Budget another 10-15% for survey, delivery, and immediate fixes.

Are catamarans safer than monohulls?

Catamarans resist capsize well and offer stable, level platforms that reduce crew fatigue. They also have shallow draft for anchoring and can be beached. However, they can invert in extreme conditions and are harder to right once flipped. Monohulls self-right more reliably. Safety depends more on crew skill, weather routing, and maintenance than hull count alone.

What size catamaran is best for a family?

Most cruising families find 40 to 45 feet ideal: enough cabin space for two or three cabins, manageable sail area for a short-handed crew, and slip fees that stay reasonable. Below 38 feet, storage and tankage get tight for full-time living. Above 50 feet, costs and handling demands rise sharply. Charter experience helps confirm what your family actually needs.

Do catamarans sail well to windward?

Most cruising catamarans sail 50 to 60 degrees off the apparent wind, worse than a good monohull. Daggerboards and deeper keels improve pointing but add complexity. Performance cats with rotating masts and square-top mains can do better. In practice, many cruisers accept the tradeoff and motor when beating into strong headwinds for long stretches.

What should I inspect on a used catamaran survey?

Focus on hull laminate moisture, deck core delamination, chainplate and bulkhead attachment, and rudder stock wear. Check saildrive seals, engine mounts, and exhaust routing. Inspect trampoline attachment points and standing rigging age. Confirm tankage condition and electrical system history. Use a surveyor with multihull experience, since monohull inspectors often miss cat-specific failure points.

How much maintenance does a catamaran need?

Two engines, two saildrives, and two hulls roughly double some maintenance tasks compared with a monohull. Annual costs often run 10-15% of the boat's value when you include haul-outs, rigging, sails, and systems. Antifouling two hulls costs more, and marina rates are often higher due to beam. Budget time for engine service and rig checks every season.

Can a catamaran cross an ocean?

Yes, many production catamarans cross oceans safely with prepared crews and good weather routing. Key factors are structural integrity, adequate fuel and water capacity, reliable autopilot, and a manageable sail plan for short-handed sailing. Light-air performance matters on long downwind passages. Choose a proven bluewater design and avoid overloading, which degrades safety and speed.

FAQ

What is the best overall catamaran of 2018?

Our top pick combined strong build quality, balanced sailing performance, and generous liveaboard volume at a competitive price. It scored highest in our weighted ranking because it compromised least across criteria. The best boat for you still depends on your cruising grounds, crew size, and budget, so treat rankings as a starting shortlist.

Which 2018 catamaran offers the best value?

The value winner delivered solid construction and respectable sailing at a price below class average. It skipped luxury finishes and some volume to keep weight and cost down. Buyers prioritizing function over flash often find these boats age better and cost less to maintain. Compare loaded displacement, not just base price.

Are 2018 catamarans good used buys now?

Yes, 2018 models are now old enough to show real wear but young enough to have modern systems and designs. Many are ex-charter boats with high engine hours, so inspect carefully. Private-owner examples often have better maintenance records and fewer crew-induced issues. Survey costs are worthwhile given the sums involved.

What is the difference between a sailing and power catamaran?

Sailing catamarans use rigs for propulsion and typically motor only in calms or tight marinas. Power catamarans rely on engines, offering faster speeds and simpler handling but higher fuel costs. Sailing cats suit long-distance cruisers; power cats suit coastal and inland use. Hybrid designs exist but add complexity and cost.

How many cabins should a cruising catamaran have?

Owner versions with three cabins suit couples who want storage and comfort. Four-cabin layouts fit families or charter use but shrink each berth. More cabins mean more heads, plumbing, and maintenance. Choose based on typical crew, not occasional guests. Extra cabins often become storage anyway.

What engines do 2018 catamarans typically use?

Most 2018 production cats used 30 to 60 horsepower diesel saildrives from Yanmar or Volvo Penta. Saildrives reduce shaft noise and simplify installation but demand careful seal maintenance. Some builders offered shaft drives for durability. Engine access varies widely, so check it during your inspection.

Is a catamaran easier to dock than a monohull?

Twin engines give catamarans excellent maneuverability, letting you pivot and walk the boat sideways. The wide beam, however, makes some slips unavailable and can complicate tight marinas. Windage is high, so docking in crosswinds demands practice. Many owners find docking easier once they learn to use both throttles together.

What draft do catamarans have?

Most cruising catamarans draw 3 to 5 feet, letting them anchor in shallow bays monohulls avoid. Daggerboard and centerboard designs can reduce draft further for gunkholing. Shallow draft also means less protection for rudders and props, so grounding damage can be costly. Check rudder design before buying.

How do catamarans handle heavy weather?

Catamarans handle heavy weather well if kept light and driven conservatively. Reef early, reduce sail area, and avoid sailing fast downwind in big seas. Bridging-deck slamming is uncomfortable but rarely structural. Capsize risk rises with excessive loading and sail area. Crew preparation matters more than hull type in storms.

Should I charter before buying a catamaran?

Yes, chartering several models reveals how layouts, helm positions, and motion affect daily life. Spend at least a week aboard, ideally in varied conditions. Note storage, ventilation, and galley usability underway. Charter experience prevents expensive mistakes and clarifies whether a catamaran suits your cruising style at all.

Sources

• https://www.sailingtoday.com
• https://www.cruisingworld.com
• https://www.yachtingmonthly.com
• https://www.multihulls-world.com
• https://www.boats.com
• https://www.yachtworld.com
• https://www.sailmagazine.com
• https://www.practical-sailor.com

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