Yacht do you want? How to choose between our different types of yachts

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, Classic to Luxury, 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.

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.

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 Luxury 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 Classic, Premium and Luxury. 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!

Classic (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. These are never more than six years old (often newer) and can hold up to 12 people, including the skipper and host.

Luxury (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. 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.

In my opinion, the Lagoon 450 catamaran is the perfect TYW boat. Four spacious cabins for up to eight guests. Two crew cabins, so your skipper and host will be well-rested. A huge icebox, which is a great addition to the air conditioning and three fridges (two for food, one for drinks) on hot days, as it means cold drinks all day long. There's also a huge sunbed on top and a net upfront, which are the perfect spots to enjoy a sunny day on the water.
- Anton Ha

The Hanse 575 is my favourite TYW yacht hands down! It is a luxury boat with coveted air conditioning. You have lots of room both up top for tanning and relaxing and down below so you don’t feel too cramped. The best part is that the Hanse can really send it sailing with good winds. Total best of all worlds scenario.
- Megan Whyte

My favourite TYW yacht is the Bali 4.1 catamaran, mostly because of the vast living space it had both inside and out. The large dining area makes for sociable mealtimes without sacrificing sun lounging and dancing space out on deck!
- Cara Louise Whiteman

Ready to book? Reserve your dream yacht today!