The Complete Guide to Catamaran Charters: Lagoon, Bali, Fountaine Pajot, Sunreef & Leopard

If you’re dreaming of a yacht charter that feels like a floating beach house—stable, spacious, sun-soaked—then a catamaran is your sweet spot. With wide decks, airy saloons, and shallow drafts that sneak into turquoise coves, cats are the go-to choice for honeymoons, family adventures, and luxury crewed escapes alike. At High Tide Yacht Charters, we match you with the perfect platform—whether that’s a nimble 40-footer for a BVI island-hop, a flybridge lounge machine for the Greek Isles, or a fully crewed super-cat that serves Michelin-level meals at anchor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the big five catamaran brands in charter—Lagoon, Bali, Fountaine Pajot, Sunreef, and Leopard—and explain how their designs, layouts, and model ranges shape the onboard experience. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to book for your group, your destination, and your style.

Why Choose a Catamaran for Your Yacht Charter?

If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up in a private floating villa with the sea as your swimming pool, a catamaran is your ticket to that lifestyle. Catamarans are, without doubt, one of the most popular choices for yacht charters today — and for good reason. They combine the thrill of sailing with the comfort and stability of a luxury retreat, making them a perfect option for couples, families, or groups of friends.

Unlike traditional monohull sailing yachts, catamarans glide effortlessly on two hulls, which means you enjoy greater stability at sea. If you’re new to sailing or just prefer a smoother ride (especially handy if someone in your group is prone to seasickness), a catamaran takes the edge off the motion of the ocean.

Then there’s the space. Catamarans are incredibly generous with their layouts — think expansive decks, wide lounging areas, and cabins that feel more like boutique hotel rooms than snug berths. The open-plan saloon often flows seamlessly into the cockpit, so whether you’re inside enjoying a freshly prepared breakfast or outside watching dolphins play in the bow wake, you’re always connected to the sea.

One of the highlights? That iconic forward trampolines and lounging nets. Stretch out in the sun, feel the spray as you sail, or share a glass of champagne under the stars — it’s one of the most romantic spots on board. Many newer catamaran models also feature flybridges and upper deck lounges, giving you panoramic views as you cruise into a new destination each day.

And while the design is all about comfort, catamarans also bring flexibility to your itinerary. Their shallow drafts allow them to slip into anchorages and hidden lagoons where larger motor yachts or deep-keeled sailing yachts simply can’t go. Want a secluded bay all to yourself in the Bahamas or a private cove in the Greek islands? A catamaran makes it possible.

At High Tide Yacht Charters, we’ve found that catamarans strike the perfect balance: they’re sociable, spacious, and stable, yet still carry the sense of adventure that comes with sailing. Whether you’re chartering bareboat to set your own course, hiring a skipper to show you the ropes, or indulging in a fully crewed luxury catamaran complete with chef and host, the experience is always unforgettable.

Simply put: a catamaran gives you more of everything — more space, more comfort, more freedom, and more ways to create lifelong memories on the water.

How to Narrow Your Choice

With so many incredible catamarans to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. But don’t worry — finding the perfect yacht for your charter isn’t about memorising technical specs; it’s about matching the boat to your style of travel and the kind of memories you want to create.

The first thing to think about is group size. Are you planning a romantic getaway for two, a family holiday, or a lively escape with friends? Smaller models (38–45ft) are intimate and cosy, ideal for couples or young families. Step up to the mid-size range (45–52ft), and you’ll find generous cabins for everyone, often with en-suite bathrooms, plus extra deck space to spread out. If you’re travelling as a large group or want every possible luxury, the bigger models (55ft and above) are essentially floating villas with multiple lounging areas, flybridges, and sometimes even Jacuzzis.

Next, consider the level of service you’d like. Bareboat charters are fantastic for experienced sailors who want the freedom of the helm. Skippered charters add peace of mind if you’d rather leave the navigating to a professional while still enjoying plenty of privacy. Fully crewed catamarans, on the other hand, take things to another level — with a captain, chef, and sometimes additional crew, you’ll enjoy five-star service while you simply relax and soak in the destinations.

It’s also worth thinking about your itinerary. If you’re exploring shallow lagoons in the Bahamas, a catamaran with a shallower draft will make it easier to slip into hidden anchorages. In the Mediterranean, where marinas and stylish ports are part of the charm, you might want a catamaran with a sleek profile that balances comfort with performance.

Finally, consider the onboard experience. Do you picture yourself dining al fresco every evening, so an open cockpit layout is essential? Are water sports a must, meaning you’ll want good storage space for paddleboards, diving gear, or even a jet ski? Or is entertaining the priority, with features like a flybridge bar, spacious saloon, and lots of sunbeds?

At High Tide Yacht Charters, we take all of these factors — and your personal style — into account to match you with the right catamaran. Whether you dream of a Lagoon with airy interiors, a Bali with its innovative “open-space” design, or a Sunreef that feels like your own floating resort, the perfect yacht is out there waiting for you. And we’re here to help you find it.

Lagoon Catamarans: Spacious Comfort Meets Effortless Cruising

Lagoon is the name that comes up time and again when people think of catamarans — and for good reason. These boats are loved for their bright, airy interiors and layouts that make life on board feel seamless. Step inside a Lagoon and you’ll notice how natural light pours into every cabin, while wide cockpits and flybridges create perfect spots for long lunches, sunset cocktails, or simply stretching out with a book.

From the Lagoon 40 — ideal for couples or small families — to the flagship Lagoon Seventy7, which feels more like a floating luxury villa, the brand has something for every style of charter. They’re reliable, easy to sail, and effortlessly combine performance with comfort, which is why they’re so often the go-to choice for first-time charterers and seasoned sailors alike.

Bali Catamarans: Open Living at Sea

Bali has redefined the idea of space on a yacht. Their signature “open-space” concept transforms the way you experience the sea. Imagine pushing back a sliding wall so that your saloon flows directly into the cockpit, creating one giant living area where the breeze and sea views are part of your daily routine.

Bali catamarans are perfect if you love that indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Wide decks, forward cockpits with lounge seating, and plenty of sunbathing spots make them fantastic for groups who want to socialise and spread out. The Bali 4.2 and 4.4 are popular mid-sized models, while the Bali 5.4 is a stunner for larger groups, offering space you wouldn’t believe could fit on a yacht.

If your dream charter is all about relaxed entertaining, dining under the stars, and soaking up every ounce of sunshine, Bali could be your match.

Fountaine Pajot: Stylish Cruising with a Touch of French Flair

Fountaine Pajot catamarans bring a certain elegance to sailing. They’re sleek, modern, and known for smart layouts that feel both stylish and practical. Inside, you’ll find chic finishes and plenty of room for everyone to feel comfortable, whether you’re sharing a family breakfast in the galley or unwinding in your private cabin after a day in the sun.

Models like the Isla 40 and Astrea 42 are brilliant for smaller groups, while the Elba 45 and Aura 51 add extra luxury with larger cabins and sophisticated design touches. And if you’re after something truly exceptional, the Alegria 67 delivers a superyacht feel with all the benefits of a catamaran’s stability and space.

These yachts strike a perfect balance between sailing performance and comfort — ideal if you want a yacht that feels refined without being over the top.

Sunreef Catamarans: The Ultimate in Luxury

When it comes to sheer indulgence, nothing beats a Sunreef. These catamarans sit firmly in the luxury category, often fully crewed, and they’re designed to impress. With custom layouts, state-of-the-art technology, and interior spaces that rival five-star hotels, a Sunreef charter feels like stepping into another world.

Think sprawling flybridges with hot tubs, gourmet kitchens where private chefs prepare exquisite meals, and cabins that feel more like boutique suites than yacht berths. The Sunreef 60 is a popular option for luxury charters, while the larger Sunreef 70 and 80 push the boundaries of what a catamaran can be.

If you’re planning a honeymoon, milestone celebration, or simply want the best of the best, Sunreef is where dream charters come to life.

Leopard Catamarans: Practical, Reliable, and Adventure-Ready

Leopard catamarans are all about functionality and reliability — designed with charter guests in mind. They’re easy to handle, durable, and incredibly popular for both bareboat and skippered charters. But practical doesn’t mean boring; Leopards are spacious, comfortable, and built for fun.

One of their standout features is the forward cockpit, which creates another great social space and allows for a lovely breeze to flow through the yacht. Inside, the layouts are straightforward and guest-friendly, making them an excellent choice if you’re new to chartering.

From the Leopard 40 to the Leopard 50, these yachts are versatile enough for families, groups of friends, or couples who want a smooth sailing experience without fuss. They’re the kind of boats that let you focus on the adventure, not the logistics.

Moon Yachts: Sleek, Modern, and Luxuriously Comfortable

Moon Yachts hail from Gdańsk, Poland, where they’ve built a reputation for modern design, innovation, and luxury. Combining European craftsmanship with smart engineering, Moon catamarans are designed for both performance and comfort, making them a favourite among couples, families, and groups seeking a stylish sailing experience.

These yachts are sleek and contemporary, with expansive decks, spacious saloons, and well-appointed cabins. Many feature innovative layouts that maximise social spaces, from sun-drenched foredecks to airy cockpits perfect for al fresco dining or evening cocktails. Inside, the cabins and bathrooms are bright, comfortable, and designed for easy living at sea — a hallmark of Moon’s guest-focused approach.

Moon Yachts are versatile, suitable for both relaxed coastal cruising and longer offshore adventures. Whether you’re island-hopping in the Greek Cyclades, exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, or sailing the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Moon Yachts provide a luxurious yet approachable sailing experience that’s as enjoyable for seasoned sailors as it is for first-time charterers.

‍

Sail vs. Power Catamarans: What’s the Difference?

One of the first choices you’ll face when booking a catamaran charter is whether to go for a sailing catamaran or a power catamaran. Both offer incredible space and stability, but the experience on board can feel very different.

Sailing Catamarans: Relaxed, Authentic Cruising

‍
If you dream of gliding silently across turquoise waters with the sails full and the sea breeze on your face, a sailing catamaran is for you. They’re designed for those who love the journey as much as the destination. Sailing cats tend to be more fuel-efficient, which means longer trips without worrying about refuelling, and they’re ideal for guests who want that classic “under sail” feeling.

Life aboard is calm and laid-back — perfect for hopping between islands in the Med, exploring hidden anchorages in the Caribbean, or enjoying sundowners under sail. And with the extra deck space and stability that a catamaran provides, you get all the romance of sailing with the comfort of a floating villa.

Power Catamarans: Speed, Convenience, and Comfort

‍
Prefer to maximise your time at each destination? That’s where power catamarans shine. Without sails, they rely purely on engines, which means you can cover longer distances faster and with complete flexibility, regardless of the wind.

Power cats often feature sleek, modern designs with expansive flybridges and roomy layouts. They’re a fantastic choice if you want to wake up in Dubrovnik, lunch in Korčula, and still make it to Hvar in time for cocktails — all without watching the clock. They also offer great stability and fuel efficiency compared to traditional monohull motor yachts, making them a smart option for those who want speed and space in one.

Which Is Right for You?
Think of it this way:

• If your idea of the perfect day is feeling connected to the sea, enjoying quiet passages under sail, and taking things slow, go for a sailing catamaran.
• If you’re after efficiency, flexibility, and the ability to explore more ground quickly while keeping luxury comforts, a power catamaran is the way to go.

Either way, both styles deliver on the catamaran promise — space, stability, and unforgettable experiences. It just depends on the rhythm you want for your holiday.

Crew Options: Bareboat, Skippered, or Fully Crewed

When booking your catamaran charter, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how you want to run your yacht. Your choice depends on your sailing experience, how hands-on you’d like to be, and how much luxury you’d like included. At High Tide Yacht Charters, we’ll guide you to the option that best matches your style of holiday.

Bareboat Charters: Freedom at Your Fingertips

‍
If you’re an experienced sailor with the right qualifications, a bareboat charter gives you complete control. You’ll be the captain, plotting your own course, raising the sails, and deciding when and where to drop anchor. It’s the ultimate sense of freedom — just you, your crew of friends or family, and the open sea. Perfect for adventurers who love independence and spontaneity.

Skippered Charters: Relaxed Sailing with Expert Guidance

‍
Not quite confident to take the helm yourself? Or maybe you’d rather sit back and soak up the sun while someone else handles the navigation? A skippered charter is the ideal middle ground. Your professional skipper will take care of the sailing and safety, while you decide the pace and destinations. It’s a brilliant choice for couples or groups who want freedom and flexibility, but with peace of mind that an expert is at the wheel.

Fully Crewed Charters: The Luxury Resort Experience at Sea

‍
For the ultimate in comfort, a fully crewed charter transforms your yacht into a floating five-star hotel. Your captain navigates, your chef prepares gourmet meals tailored to your tastes, and your steward(ess) or deckhand ensures every detail is taken care of — from cocktails on deck to watersports at anchor. This is a turn-key luxury experience, perfect for honeymoons, milestone celebrations, or anyone who wants to be completely pampered while exploring the world’s most beautiful coastlines.

Which Should You Choose?

• Bareboat if you want adventure, independence, and hands-on sailing.
• Skippered if you want flexibility with professional support.
• Fully Crewed if you want indulgence, personalised service, and a seamless luxury escape.

Whichever you choose, High Tide Yacht Charters has access to the best yachts and most experienced crew worldwide, ensuring your holiday is everything you imagined — and more.

Picking the Right Size & Layout for Your Trip

One of the most exciting parts of planning your catamaran charter is choosing the yacht itself — and size and layout play a huge role in shaping your experience. From cosy getaways for two to big family adventures, there’s a catamaran for every kind of trip.

Couples & Honeymoons

‍
For romantic escapes, a smaller catamaran — typically in the 38–45ft range — is perfect. These yachts feel intimate, easy to handle, and still offer plenty of comfort. Many have “owner’s layouts”, where one entire hull is dedicated to a spacious master suite, giving you extra privacy and luxury.

Families with Children

‍
Travelling with kids? A mid-sized catamaran — around 45–50ft — gives you a great balance of space and manageability. Multiple cabins mean everyone has their own retreat, while the open-plan saloon and shaded cockpit keep the family connected. Wide decks and trampoline nets make it safe and fun for little ones, while easy water access at the stern means endless swimming stops.

Groups of Friends

‍
If you’re planning a social trip with friends, think bigger. A catamaran in the 50–55ft range offers 4–6 double cabins, so everyone has space without feeling crowded. Many models have identical en-suite cabins, which keeps things fair when dividing rooms. The extra deck space is perfect for sundowners, shared meals, and late-night conversations under the stars.

Luxury & Celebration Charters

‍For those chasing the ultimate in space and style, the 60ft+ catamarans (think Sunreef or larger Lagoon models) are floating resorts. Expect multiple lounges, expansive sunbathing areas, flybridges with panoramic views, and often a dedicated crew. These yachts are ideal for milestone celebrations, once-in-a-lifetime trips, or anyone who wants a taste of true luxury at sea.

Layout Choices

• Owner’s Layout: Best for couples or small families who want one oversized master suite.
• Charter Layout: Multiple, evenly sized cabins for groups and families.
• Crew Cabins: Extra cabins in the bow for skippers or crew — a must if you’re not going bareboat.

The High Tide Touch
At High Tide Yacht Charters, we take the guesswork out of picking your yacht. We’ll listen to your group size, travel style, and wishlist, then match you with the perfect catamaran — whether that’s a sleek Lagoon 42 for island-hopping in Greece or a luxurious Sunreef 70 for exploring the Caribbean in style.

Because when it comes to your charter, the right yacht isn’t just about size — it’s about finding the one that feels made for you.

Features Guests Love (and Why They Matter)

One of the best things about modern catamarans is how much thought goes into their design. These aren’t just boats — they’re floating villas, cleverly built to make life at sea as easy and enjoyable as possible. Here are the features our guests rave about most (and why you’ll love them too):

Spacious Decks & Trampolines

‍Wide decks are a catamaran’s signature, giving you plenty of room to spread out, sunbathe, or simply wander without bumping elbows. Up front, the trampoline nets are a favourite spot for lounging with a cocktail, watching dolphins ride the bow, or stargazing at night.

Flybridges with a View

‍Many larger catamarans now feature a flybridge — an elevated lounge and helm station with 360° views. It’s the perfect perch for sundowners, group dinners, or just soaking up the horizon as you glide from one island to the next.

Indoor-Outdoor Living

‍Thanks to sliding doors and clever layouts, saloons flow seamlessly into shaded cockpits. That means you can dine al fresco, relax in the shade, or move indoors without ever feeling disconnected. It’s the best of both worlds: comfort and connection to the sea.

Water Access Made Easy

‍Forget clambering awkwardly into the water — catamarans are designed with low, wide sugar-scoops at the stern, so you can slip into the sea with ease. Perfect for snorkelling stops, paddleboarding, or just cooling off with a refreshing dip.

Modern Comforts

‍Air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and sound systems are increasingly common, so you never have to sacrifice modern luxuries. Many yachts also have ensuite cabins with private bathrooms, keeping your trip both comfortable and convenient.

Chef’s Galley & Alfresco Dining

‍Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a bareboat or enjoying gourmet meals from a professional chef on a crewed charter, catamarans are built for dining in style. Imagine breakfast with a sea breeze, or candlelit dinners under the stars.

Water Toys & Extras

‍From paddleboards and kayaks to snorkelling gear and, on larger yachts, even Seabobs or jet skis — these add-ons transform your charter into an adventure playground. It’s not just about sailing; it’s about making memories on (and in) the water.

Why These Details Matter

‍It’s easy to overlook the little things when planning a charter, but these features are what elevate your trip from “nice holiday” to “unforgettable experience.” They’re the difference between squeezing into a cramped cabin versus waking up refreshed, or spending the day lounging in comfort instead of competing for space.

At High Tide Yacht Charters, we know which yachts have the extras that will make your trip unforgettable — whether that’s a flybridge for group dinners, a Jacuzzi for romantic evenings, or a toy box full of gear to keep the kids busy all day long.

Destination Pairings We Recommend

Catamarans give you the freedom to explore multiple destinations in a single trip, hopping from island to island, cove to cove, without ever feeling rushed. At High Tide Yacht Charters, we help you pair destinations and yachts perfectly, so every day feels effortless, memorable, and tailored to your style of travel.

BVI & USVI
The British and US Virgin Islands are made for catamaran cruising. Short hops between turquoise bays, calm seas, and endless anchorages make this a paradise for first-timers and families alike. We recommend any 40–50ft Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Bali, or Leopard, sail or power. These yachts are stable, spacious, and easy to handle, while still offering plenty of deck space for lounging and socialising. Imagine starting the day anchored off Jost Van Dyke, snorkelling in clear waters, then by afternoon sipping cocktails in Virgin Gorda’s secluded bays — it’s a seamless mix of adventure and relaxation.

Bahamas (Exumas)

‍
For the Bahamas, where white sandbars and vibrant marine life define the experience, power catamarans truly shine. Models like the Leopard 46PC or 53PC, or larger sailing cats with shallow drafts, let you glide between hidden sandbanks and anchor in remote coves that are unreachable by other boats. Spend your day swimming with pigs, exploring blue holes, or just soaking up the sun with unmatched privacy — the Exumas were made for this kind of freedom.

Greece (Cyclades & Ionian Islands)
In Greece, the islands are spread across sparkling waters, each with its own character and charm. For Cyclades and Ionian itineraries, we suggest yachts like the Lagoon 46/51, Fountaine Pajot Elba 45 or Tanna 47, and Bali 4.6. Look for a catamaran with a flybridge and good shaded cockpit — you’ll want spots to relax after island-hopping through Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, and Zakynthos. With short daily sails and calm Aegean winds, these yachts make it easy to combine sightseeing, beach stops, and evening dinners on deck.

Croatia (Dalmatian Coast)

‍
Croatia offers a unique mix of crystal-clear waters, medieval towns, and bustling marinas. For Dalmatian itineraries, catamarans like the Fountaine Pajot Astréa 42–Tanna 47 or Lagoon 46/51 are perfect. Their layouts make docking in historic harbours and exploring quaint villages straightforward, while still providing expansive decks for sunbathing and evening cocktails. Expect a blend of adventure and relaxation as you move from Split to Hvar, Brač, and Korčula, each stop offering its own unique charm.

How We Help You Choose
The key is matching the yacht to who you are, where you want to go, and when you plan to sail. Tell us the when, where, and who, and we’ll shortlist yachts that fit like a glove — and your budget. From intimate couples’ escapes to lively family or friends’ adventures, we’ll pair you with the catamaran, layout, and features that make your charter unforgettable.

Charter With Confidence: How High Tide Makes It Easy

At High Tide Yacht Charters, we know planning a catamaran charter can feel overwhelming. From choosing the right brand to figuring out layouts, crew options, and itineraries, there’s a lot to consider. That’s where we step in — cutting through the noise and turning the process into something effortless, exciting, and truly tailored to you.

We’ll help you compare the top catamaran brands — Lagoon, Bali, Fountaine Pajot, Sunreef, and Leopard — against your exact dates, group size, and preferred sailing region. We’ll break down the trade-offs for you in plain English: flybridge or coachroof, owner’s suite vs. charter layout, sail or power, even hull size and cabin configurations. If you’re opting for a luxury experience, we can introduce vetted crews who know exactly how to deliver five-star service at sea.

But our support doesn’t stop at yacht selection. We handle all the details that can make or break a charter: contracts, insurance guidance, provisioning plans, and arranging those magical extras that turn a holiday into a memory. Imagine a private beach dinner in the BVI, a vineyard day exploring Hvar’s sun-soaked hills, or a sunset photoshoot in Santorini’s iconic caldera — we take care of all of it.

Once we understand your group size, destination, and travel window, we’ll curate a shortlist of yachts that fit your needs like a glove. Each option comes with detailed deck plans, cabin layouts, sample menus for crewed charters, and fully transparent pricing. You’ll be able to compare, ask questions, and book with complete confidence, knowing exactly what to expect before you step aboard.

In short, we make chartering simple, stress-free, and highly personalised. From your first enquiry to stepping on deck, we’re here to make your dream catamaran holiday a reality — so you can start counting sleeps, planning sunsets, and imagining the memories you’ll create at sea.

‍