Catamaran Cruise Guide: Top Destinations, Itineraries & What's Included - Voyage Privé
Luxury holidays

Catamaran cruise


Table of contents

A catamaran cruise represents one of the most rewarding ways to discover the planet's finest coastlines and archipelagos, blending the romance of sailing with the reassurance of a floating hotel. Thanks to their twin-hull stability, generous deck areas, and intimate group capacities, catamarans deliver a unique fusion of adventure, comfort, and autonomy. Whether snorkelling among the granite islands of the Seychelles, island-hopping around the historic harbours of Greece, or exploring the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, a crewed catamaran holiday promises unforgettable memories. Register today to unlock exclusive catamaran cruise offers, handpicked itineraries, and exceptional value across the Mediterranean, Indian Ocean, and Caribbean.

The most beautiful catamaran cruises

Mediterranean Catamaran Cruise - Athens

Mediterranean Catamaran Cruise - Athens

This 8-day Mediterranean catamaran cruise departs from Athens and explores the stunning Saronic Gulf. Sail aboard a Lagoon 450 or similar vessel with four double cabins, visiting Aegina, Ermioni, Spetses, Dokos, Hydra, and Poros. Your skipper and cook ensure a seamless experience, while water sports equipment (snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding) is included. Full board means you can focus entirely on the turquoise bays, ancient harbours, and charming island villages that define this iconic Greek sailing route.

What we love: The perfect introduction to Greek island-hopping, combining history, crystal-clear waters, and authentic taverna stops in picturesque ports.

Discover this cruise

Seychelles Catamaran Cruise - Mahé Island

Seychelles Catamaran Cruise - Mahé Island

Embark on a 7-night Seychelles catamaran cruise visiting Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Curieuse, and more. Sail aboard catamarans ranging from 15 to 24 metres, with full board and water sports included. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai, the world-famous Anse Source d'Argent beach, and snorkelling among giant tortoises and vibrant coral reefs. This itinerary showcases the very best of the inner Seychelles islands, blending natural wonders with laid-back island life.

What we love: Unmatched natural beauty, from granite boulders and palm-fringed beaches to rare wildlife and some of the Indian Ocean's clearest waters.

Discover this cruise

7 Nights: Catamaran Cruise Around the Islands of the Gulf of Naples - Amalfi Coast

7 Nights: Catamaran Cruise Around the Islands of the Gulf of Naples - Amalfi Coast

Discover the Gulf of Naples and Amalfi Coast on this 7-night itinerary, calling at Pozzuoli, Procida, Ischia, Capri, Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento. Choose between Classic or Superior cabins and enjoy full board throughout. Water sports such as snorkelling and kayaking are included, and each day brings a new postcard-perfect harbour, from the pastel houses of Procida to the dramatic cliffs of Positano and the legendary Blue Grotto of Capri.

What we love: Italy's most iconic coastline seen from the water, with daily stops in world-famous ports and plenty of time to swim, explore, and savour Italian cuisine.

Discover this cruise

Catamaran Cruise Across the Maldives with Optional You & Me by Cocoon Maldives 5* Extension - Malé

Catamaran Cruise Across the Maldives with Optional You & Me by Cocoon Maldives 5* Extension - Malé

Sail the Maldives aboard a Lagoon 620 catamaran on this 7- or 10-night cruise, with the option to extend your stay at the adults-only You & Me by Cocoon Maldives resort. Full board is included on board, along with snorkelling excursions and stops at deserted sandbanks. Seaplane transfers and a mandatory cash box (covering fuel, mooring, and park fees) are detailed on the product page, ensuring transparency and ease of planning.

What we love: The ultimate Maldives experience, combining remote-atoll sailing with the option of a luxury resort extension for the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.

Discover this cruise

What is a catamaran cruise and who is it for?

Definition and advantages of catamarans (stability, space, group sizes)

A catamaran is a twin-hulled sailing vessel, offering significantly greater stability than traditional monohull yachts. This design minimises rolling and pitching, making catamarans ideal for passengers prone to seasickness or those new to sailing. The wide beam creates generous deck space, both inside and out, with large saloons, spacious cabins, and ample sunbathing areas. Most crewed catamaran cruises accommodate between 6 and 12 guests across 3 to 6 double cabins, ensuring an intimate, sociable atmosphere without feeling crowded. The shallow draft of catamarans allows access to secluded bays and anchorages that larger vessels cannot reach, opening up hidden coves and pristine beaches. On-board life is relaxed and informal: days are spent sailing between islands, swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying meals prepared by your crew. Evenings are often spent at anchor in tranquil bays, with sundowners on deck and the gentle sound of the sea. For those seeking freedom, comfort, and a close connection to the water, a catamaran cruise is unmatched.

Typical boat and cabin types (Classic, Superior, Lagoon 450/620 examples)

Catamaran cruises feature modern, well-maintained vessels from renowned builders such as Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, and Bali. Popular models include the Lagoon 450 (around 13.96 metres, 4 double cabins, ideal for up to 8 guests) and the Lagoon 620 (18.9 metres, 6 cabins, accommodating up to 12 guests). Cabins are categorised as Classic or Superior, with Superior cabins often offering more space, en-suite bathrooms, and better ventilation. All cabins are equipped with comfortable double beds, storage, portholes or windows for natural light, and air conditioning or fans. Each cabin has its own private bathroom (head) with a toilet, sink, and shower—compact but functional. The saloon serves as the communal heart of the boat, with a dining table, galley, and panoramic windows. Outside, the cockpit and trampolines provide perfect spots for lounging, sunbathing, and watching dolphins. Crew quarters are separate, ensuring guest privacy. When booking, check the product page for specific boat models and cabin layouts.

Who should choose a catamaran cruise (families, couples, small groups)

Catamaran cruises suit a wide range of travellers. Families with children appreciate the stability, safety, and space: kids can move freely on deck, and shallow anchorages mean safe swimming and snorkelling. Many itineraries welcome children from age 6 or 8 upwards (check individual product pages for minimum age requirements). Couples seeking a romantic, active holiday will love the intimacy of small-group sailing, with opportunities for private swims, sunset sails, and candlelit dinners under the stars. Small groups of friends can charter an entire catamaran, creating a bespoke itinerary and enjoying exclusive use of the boat and crew. Solo travellers can join shared departures, meeting like-minded adventurers in a relaxed, sociable setting. Catamaran cruises are less suitable for those with severe mobility issues, as boarding dinghies and moving around the boat requires a reasonable level of fitness. However, for active, curious travellers who value nature, flexibility, and authentic experiences over formal cruise-ship routines, a catamaran holiday is the perfect choice.

Top destinations for catamaran cruises

Mediterranean highlights (Greek islands, Saronic Gulf, Amalfi Coast, Côte d'Azur)

The Mediterranean is the spiritual home of catamaran cruising, offering calm summer seas, reliable winds, and a wealth of historic ports and islands. Greece is a perennial favourite: the Saronic Gulf (Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses) combines ancient temples, whitewashed villages, and crystal-clear bays, all within easy reach of Athens. The Cyclades and Ionian islands offer longer itineraries for those seeking more remote anchorages. Italy's Amalfi Coast is equally iconic, with dramatic cliffs, pastel-painted towns, and world-class cuisine. A typical 7-night itinerary might include Procida, Ischia, Capri, Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento, each stop more beautiful than the last. France's Côte d'Azur and Provence coast offer a different flavour: explore the Calanques near Marseille, the islands of Porquerolles and Port-Cros, and glamorous ports such as Saint-Tropez and Cannes. Mediterranean catamaran cruises run from April to October, with July and August being the warmest and busiest months. For the best balance of weather and availability, consider May, June, or September.

Indian Ocean and oceanic options (Seychelles, Maldives)

The Indian Ocean offers some of the world's most spectacular catamaran cruising, with the Seychelles and Maldives leading the way. The Seychelles' inner islands (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Curieuse, Félicité) are a paradise of granite boulders, powder-white beaches, and lush jungle. A 7-night Seychelles catamaran cruise includes snorkelling with sea turtles, visiting the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai (home to the rare coco de mer palm), and swimming at Anse Source d'Argent, one of the world's most photographed beaches. The sailing distances are short, leaving plenty of time for exploration and relaxation. The Maldives offers a different experience: sailing between remote atolls, stopping at deserted sandbanks, and snorkelling over vibrant coral reefs teeming with manta rays, reef sharks, and tropical fish. Maldives catamaran cruises often operate on Lagoon 620 vessels, with full board and the option to extend your stay at a luxury resort. Both destinations enjoy year-round warm weather, though the Seychelles is best from April to May and October to November, while the Maldives is ideal from November to April.

Caribbean and Atlantic options (Cuba, Caribbean cays)

The Caribbean is synonymous with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and laid-back island vibes—perfect for catamaran cruising. Cuba offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. A typical 7-night Cuban catamaran cruise departs from Cienfuegos and explores the southern cays: Cayo Largo and Playa Sirena. Expect deserted beaches, excellent snorkelling, and the chance to visit local fishing villages and sample fresh lobster and rum. Cuba's warm, welcoming people and vintage charm add a special dimension to any sailing itinerary. Elsewhere in the Caribbean, popular catamaran destinations include the British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke), the Grenadines (Bequia, Mustique, Tobago Cays), and the Bahamas (Exumas, with their famous swimming pigs). The Caribbean sailing season runs from November to May, avoiding the hurricane season (June to November). Trade winds provide reliable sailing conditions, and the short distances between islands make for relaxed, flexible itineraries. Whether snorkelling coral reefs, sipping cocktails on deck, or exploring colonial towns, a Caribbean catamaran cruise delivers the ultimate tropical escape.

Sample itineraries (day-by-day examples)

8-day Mediterranean sample (Athens to Aegina to Ermioni to Spetses to Dokos to Hydra to Poros to Athens)

This classic 8-day Saronic Gulf itinerary showcases the best of Greek island-hopping. Day 1: Embark in Athens (Alimos Marina) and sail to Aegina, famous for its pistachio groves and the Temple of Aphaia. Day 2: Continue to Ermioni on the Peloponnese coast, a quiet fishing village with excellent tavernas. Day 3: Sail to Spetses, a car-free island with elegant mansions, pine forests, and hidden coves. Day 4: Anchor at Dokos, an uninhabited island perfect for snorkelling and swimming in total seclusion. Day 5: Arrive at Hydra, one of Greece's most beautiful islands, with donkeys replacing cars and a stunning horseshoe harbour. Day 6: Sail to Poros, a green island with a charming waterfront and the ancient Temple of Poseidon nearby. Day 7: Enjoy a final swim and leisurely sail back towards Athens. Day 8: Disembark in Athens after breakfast. Throughout the week, your skipper and cook handle navigation and meals, while you snorkel, paddleboard, explore ancient ruins, and dine on fresh Greek cuisine.

7-night Amalfi Coast sample (Pozzuoli to Procida to Ischia to Capri to Positano to Amalfi to Sorrento)

This 7-night Amalfi Coast itinerary is a feast for the senses, combining dramatic coastal scenery, world-class cuisine, and iconic Italian ports. Day 1: Embark in Pozzuoli (near Naples) and sail to Procida, a pastel-painted island with a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Day 2: Cross to Ischia, known for its thermal springs, lush gardens, and excellent seafood. Day 3: Sail to Capri, the jewel of the Bay of Naples. Visit the Blue Grotto, stroll through Capri town, and swim in the emerald waters of Marina Piccola. Day 4: Head to Positano, clinging to the cliffs in a cascade of colourful houses, boutique shops, and beach clubs. Day 5: Continue to Amalfi, with its stunning cathedral, lemon groves, and historic maritime heritage. Day 6: Sail to Sorrento, perched on cliffs overlooking the bay, famous for limoncello and panoramic views. Day 7: Enjoy a final swim and leisurely sail before disembarking. Full board is included, with meals showcasing fresh pasta, seafood, and local wines. Water sports (snorkelling, kayaking) are available throughout.

7-night Indian Ocean sample (Seychelles: Mahé to Praslin to La Digue to Curieuse)

A 7-night Seychelles catamaran cruise is a journey through some of the planet's most pristine islands. Day 1: Embark in Mahé (Eden Island Marina) and sail north towards Praslin. Day 2: Arrive at Praslin and visit the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the endemic coco de mer palm and rare black parrots. Day 3: Sail to La Digue, where bicycles replace cars and Anse Source d'Argent beach awaits—a dreamscape of granite boulders, turquoise shallows, and palm trees. Day 4: Explore Curieuse Island, a national park inhabited by giant Aldabra tortoises; snorkel the surrounding reefs. Day 5: Sail to Félicité or Cocos Island for world-class snorkelling and diving. Day 6: Anchor at St Pierre, a tiny granite islet surrounded by coral gardens, then sail towards Mahé. Day 7: Enjoy a final swim and beach barbecue before returning to Mahé. Day 8: Disembark after breakfast. Full board, water sports, and park fees (via cash box) are included. The Seychelles offers unmatched natural beauty, rare wildlife, and some of the Indian Ocean's clearest waters.

Activities and the on-board experience

Water activities: snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, diving options

One of the greatest joys of a catamaran cruise is the direct access to the sea and the wealth of water-based activities on offer. Snorkelling is included on virtually all itineraries, with masks, fins, and snorkels provided. Your crew will guide you to the best reefs, wrecks, and marine-life hotspots—expect to see colourful fish, sea turtles, rays, and (in the Maldives and Seychelles) reef sharks and manta rays. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are standard equipment, perfect for exploring shallow lagoons, mangrove channels, and secluded beaches at your own pace. Some itineraries offer optional scuba diving excursions for certified divers, with local dive centres arranging tanks, guides, and boat transfers (additional cost, bookable on board or in advance). Other activities may include fishing, kite-surfing (in suitable locations), and beach games. Each day includes multiple swim stops, allowing you to cool off, snorkel, or simply float in crystal-clear water. The beauty of catamaran cruising is the flexibility: if you discover a perfect bay, your skipper can extend the stop. Water activities are weather-dependent, and your crew will always prioritise safety and guest comfort.

Life on board: meals (full board / half board), crew roles (skipper, cook), daytime routines

Life on board a crewed catamaran is relaxed, informal, and tailored to your group's preferences. Most catamaran cruises operate on a full-board basis, meaning breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, along with snacks and soft drinks. Meals are prepared fresh by your on-board cook, showcasing local ingredients and regional specialities—Greek salads and grilled fish in Greece, fresh pasta and seafood in Italy, tropical fruits and curries in the Seychelles. Some itineraries offer half-board (breakfast and lunch, with dinners ashore at local restaurants), giving you the chance to explore island tavernas and beach bars. Your skipper is responsible for navigation, safety, and route planning, adjusting the itinerary based on weather, wind, and guest interests. The cook manages provisioning, meal preparation, and galley duties. Both crew members are experienced, friendly, and passionate about sharing their knowledge of the islands. A typical day begins with breakfast at anchor, followed by a morning sail to a new island or bay. Lunch is served on board or ashore, then an afternoon swim, snorkel, or island exploration. Evenings are spent at anchor, with sundowners, dinner, and stargazing. The pace is yours to set.

Cabin comfort, bathrooms, privacy and group size considerations

Cabin comfort and privacy are key considerations when booking a catamaran cruise. Modern catamarans offer well-appointed cabins with double beds, storage, air conditioning or fans, and en-suite bathrooms (heads). Bathrooms are compact but functional, with a marine toilet, sink, and shower (often a wet-room style, where the shower drains into the bathroom floor). Water and electricity are finite resources on a boat, so guests are asked to use them thoughtfully—short showers, turning off lights and air conditioning when not in the cabin. Privacy is excellent: cabins are located in the hulls, separated from the saloon and crew quarters, with solid doors and good soundproofing. Group size matters: a 4-cabin catamaran accommodates up to 8 guests, while a 6-cabin vessel can host 12. Smaller groups enjoy more space and flexibility; larger groups benefit from shared costs and a lively, sociable atmosphere. If you value privacy and exclusivity, consider booking an entire catamaran for your group. Solo travellers and couples joining shared departures should expect to share communal spaces (saloon, cockpit, deck) but will have their own private cabin and bathroom. Always check the product page for specific cabin layouts, group sizes, and any accessibility notes.

A catamaran cruise opens the door to some of the world's most beautiful and inaccessible coastlines, offering a rare blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic cultural encounters. From the sun-drenched islands of the Mediterranean to the remote atolls of the Indian Ocean and the vibrant shores of the Caribbean, every itinerary promises unforgettable moments. Whether you're travelling with family, friends, or as a couple, the combination of crewed service, full-board dining, and a wealth of water sports ensures a seamless, rewarding experience. Register now to unlock exclusive offers, handpicked itineraries, and exceptional value on your next catamaran cruise.

Catamaran cruise

A catamaran cruise is a sailing holiday aboard a twin-hulled vessel, crewed by a skipper and cook. It combines the freedom of yachting with the comfort of a floating hotel, visiting multiple islands or coastal destinations over 7 to 10 nights. Meals, water sports, and cabins are included, and itineraries are flexible and tailored to weather and guest interests.

Prices vary by destination, season, boat size, and inclusions. A 7-night Mediterranean catamaran cruise starts from around £800 to £1,500 per person (shared departure, full board), whilst Indian Ocean and Caribbean itineraries range from £1,200 to £2,500 per person. Private charters cost more but offer exclusivity. Always check for mandatory extras such as cash-box (covering fuel, mooring, park fees) and transfers, detailed on the product page. Exclusive member rates and curated deals are available.

A catamaran cruise offers unparalleled access to remote islands, hidden coves, and pristine beaches that land-based holidays cannot reach. The combination of sailing, snorkelling, and island-hopping creates a rich, varied experience. The intimate group size, personalised service, and flexibility make it ideal for families, couples, and small groups seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

Yes. Every cabin on a modern crewed catamaran has its own private en-suite bathroom (head), equipped with a marine toilet, sink, and shower. Bathrooms are compact but fully functional. Shared catamarans (joining other guests) always provide private cabin bathrooms; you will never share a bathroom with strangers.

Catamarans are extremely stable due to their twin-hull design, which reduces rolling and pitching compared to monohull yachts. They are well-suited to coastal and island cruising in sheltered waters. Your skipper is trained in safety, navigation, and weather forecasting, and will adjust the itinerary to avoid rough conditions. Most catamaran cruises operate in calm, protected areas during the best weather windows, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

  1. Voyage Privé
  2. Luxury holidays
  3. Catamaran cruise