The catamaran charter holiday has quietly been building momentum over the past few years, but 2025 is shaping up to be the year it truly goes mainstream. From the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the palm-lined bays of the Caribbean, more travellers are choosing to set sail on two hulls rather than one. The trend is being fuelled by a combination of comfort, flexibility, value for money, and a growing appetite for adventure after years of conventional travel.
Comfort on the Water
The biggest draw of a catamaran, according to experts PlainSailing.com, is the space it offers. Unlike traditional monohull yachts, catamarans provide wide decks, expansive lounging areas, and cabins that feel more like hotel rooms than cramped berths. Families and groups of friends can spread out without feeling confined, and outdoor spaces are perfect for dining, sunbathing or simply enjoying the sea breeze. For many holidaymakers, it’s the difference between “roughing it” and truly relaxing.
This year’s charter market has seen more demand for vessels with luxury fittings, from en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning to modern kitchens and entertainment systems. Catamarans deliver these comforts without sacrificing the sailing experience, making them the ideal compromise between adventure and indulgence.
Value for Groups
Another reason catamaran charters are booming is cost-sharing. While hiring a yacht might seem expensive at first glance, when split between six or eight people the price per head often works out cheaper than staying in a hotel. Add in the fact that you can cook on board, avoid expensive transfers, and anchor in secluded bays for free, and the savings become even clearer.
Travel agencies and charter companies report that families in particular are choosing catamarans over resorts this year. Parents appreciate the privacy, while children enjoy the novelty of life at sea. Groups of friends also find the shared experience a more memorable alternative to a week on land.
Freedom to Explore
The appeal of a catamaran holiday lies not just in the boat itself but in the freedom it provides. Rather than being tied to a single hotel or crowded beach, travellers can wake up in a different bay each morning. From Croatia’s Dalmatian islands to the Greek Cyclades, itineraries are flexible, allowing sailors to tailor their trip around weather, mood, or hidden recommendations picked up along the way.
Catamarans, with their shallow draft, are also able to anchor closer to shore than many larger vessels, giving guests access to quiet coves and small harbours off the beaten path. For travellers keen to escape the tourist trail, this flexibility is a major advantage.
Post-Pandemic Travel Shifts
The pandemic reshaped travel habits, and its legacy still influences holiday choices. Many people are still drawn to private, self-contained trips that limit exposure to crowds. A catamaran charter offers precisely that: your own floating villa, with only your chosen companions on board.
Travel experts note that after years of restrictions, people are prioritizing experiences that feel both safe and extraordinary. Chartering a catamaran ticks both boxes – it provides isolation when wanted, but also the chance to explore new places in comfort and style.
Eco-Conscious Sailing
Another factor boosting demand is the rise of eco-conscious travel. Catamarans are increasingly being fitted with solar panels, water filtration systems, and energy-efficient engines, appealing to travellers who want to minimise their environmental footprint. Sailing itself is a greener alternative to air-travel-heavy itineraries, and many charters now promote sustainable tourism practices, from supporting local suppliers to encouraging reef-safe activities.
The Experience Economy
Ultimately, the surge in catamaran holidays reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing experiences over possessions. A week sailing through azure waters, swimming off the back deck, and discovering hidden islands creates memories far richer than a typical package holiday.
With new fleets being launched in top destinations and more competitive pricing than ever, it’s easy to see why bookings are soaring. For many, 2025 is the year they trade the poolside lounger for a sun-drenched deck and embrace the rhythm of the sea.
Catamaran charters aren’t just a holiday; they’re an adventure, a retreat, and a lifestyle experience all rolled into one. And judging by the way demand is climbing, more travellers than ever are ready to step aboard.
