Introduction to Catamarans
with Darren & Amanda Seltzer | Outer Passage


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

90 Minutes English Unlimited Access

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 webinar be your first step into the thrill of Catamaran sailing!

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ONLINE COURSE 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 Instructor

DARREN & AMANDA SELTZER

Outer Passage

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.