Yacht do you want? How to choose between our different types of yachts
By Bronwyn Griffiths
Posted on 29th June 2020
If you're excited to join The Yacht Week but have never sailed before, we're here to help you decide on your perfect floating home for the week. From catamarans to monohulls, Standard to Premium Plus, check out our handy guide with all the different types of yachts to help you work out which one is best for you.
Ready to book? Reserve your dream yacht today!
Catamaran vs monohull - what's the difference?
Firstly, let's talk terminology. To choose between a monohull and a catamaran you need to know what makes them different. Simply put, as the name suggests, a monohull has only one hull (the main body of a yacht), whereas a catamaran has two hulls. The benefits of a catamaran having two hulls is that they will typically stay more level and offer a lot more space, while a monohull will always reach faster speeds when sailing. Here's what one of our amazing hosts, Cara Whiteman, has to say about the difference: If you like to sail, make sure you book a monohull to get a real authentic experience with the yacht leaning over and cutting through the waves under sail! Don’t worry if you still like your space - you can always book the larger monohulls, such as the Jeanneau 54 (Premium Plus). Alternatively, if you are looking to top up on the tan, a catamaran is the best bet, with lots of outside space for lounging and sipping on cocktails. The kitchen is much bigger and the yacht stays more stable at sea, so if you’re a foodie you’ll enjoy the spacious and more social dining experience that the extra room allows.
📷: Jeanneau 54 in perfect sailing conditions on a summer evening
Things to think about before you book
There's nothing better than a recommendation from someone really in the know. Another of our amazing skippers, Anton Ha, has some great tips for you to think about before you book: If you're planning to join TYW at the peak of summer, especially between weeks 26-34, then make sure you book a yacht with air-conditioning! All our Premium Plus monohull and catamaran yachts (and a small selection of Premium yachts) come with AC. Don't plan to let people sleep in the saloon (lounge area) as it makes the yacht look messy all week long, which is no fun. If you can afford to keep your crew size down, you will really enjoy the uncluttered space.
Types of yachts
To make it easier to understand the differences between our yachts, we categorise them as Standard, Premium and Premium Plus. Depending on what you need for your experience in terms of rooms, space, facilities and, of course, price, we have a yacht that will work for your crew!
Standard (Monohull)
These yachts are a great option for first-timers on TYW. They come with a fully equipped kitchen and at least two bathrooms. They are never more than eight years old (often newer) and can hold up to 10 people, including the skipper and host.
Premium (Monohull)
If you're looking for an authentic sailing experience with a little extra comfort (and speed), then opt for this yacht. Larger than a standard yacht, it comes with more spacious cabins and lounge area. A small number of Premium yachts have air conditioning - this is clearly indicated on each yacht specification so make sure to check. These are never more than five years old (often newer) and can hold up to 12 people, including the skipper and host.
Premium (Catamaran)
If you're here to maximise your sunbathing and Instagramming on a first-class yacht, then this is the one for you. The extra space means you have three sunbathing spots onboard plus spacious cabins and lounge area. A small number of Premium yachts have air conditioning, this is clearly indicated on each yacht specification but make sure to check. They are never more than five years old (often newer) and can hold up to 12 people (although some can only carry 10 or 11), including the skipper and host.
Premium Plus (Monohull)
Level up with one of these seriously stylish yachts. Perfect for those who want to truly experience what sailing is all about, enjoying the rush that #yachtlife can bring. Perks include guaranteed air-conditioning, a banging sound system and charging spots for your devices. Plus there are four to six cabins and at least three bathrooms onboard. They are never more than four years old (often newer) and can hold up to 12 people (although some can only carry 11), including the skipper and host.
Premium Plus (Catamaran)
Luxe out to the max with one of these incredible yachts. Make your friends at home pea green with envy as you fill your Instagram with endless shots of you lazing on a yacht in the sunshine. Seriously spacious, you can choose from three sunbathing spots plus each of the cabins (there are four to six of them) have their own ensuite bathroom. Perks include guaranteed air-conditioning, charging spots to keep your devices juiced up and a sound system for pumping out your fave summer tunes. They are never more than four years old (often newer) and can hold up to 14 people, including the skipper and host.
What's included with all our yachts?
So now you know the differences, but what do they all have in common? Here's everything that comes standard with our yachts:- Your skipper - Very necessary, of course. Our amazing skippers are an essential part of your experience as they will help you sail your way through the week. They'll navigate your yacht, lead your crew and make sure you discover all the hidden gems along the way. They're there to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience and are happy to teach you some of the key skills for sailing if you’re keen to get involved.
- Fully equipped kitchen - Feast your way through the week by whipping up a storm in your very own kitchen. Packed with all the pots, pans and cutlery you could need. Don't want to bother with the cooking? Book yourself one of our friendly hosts for the week.
- Bedding and bathroom towels - All your linens are provided, so no need to pack any of these. We do suggest bringing your own beach towel so you don’t get seawater on your bathroom towel.
- Speakers - Every yacht has its own speakers, so you don't need to bother about packing these. Pump out the tunes as you sail your way through an unforgettable week.
- Wifi - while we definitely encourage you to switch off and enjoy every minute of the week, we also make sure you don’t lose touch with the real world (unless you want to, of course).
Which yachts do our skippers and hosts recommend?
So now you know about all our different categories of yacht, but which ones do our skippers and hosts love? Surprisingly, they all have their own preferences for different reasons. Check out which yacht three of our amazing skippers and hosts recommend.
📷: Lagoon 450
📷: Hanse 575
📷: Bali 4.1