Why Even Lifelong Sailors Might Want to Consider a Power Charter
A fresh perspective on cruising with The Moorings
As Pete Seeger sang in the 1960s, “To everything, turn, turn, turn. There is a season…” And for many lifelong sailors, there may come a season to turn the wheel—just slightly—and consider something new. Maybe even… a power catamaran.
We get it. The gentle flap of canvas in the wind, the dance with nature’s elements, the satisfaction of trimming a sail just right—these are deeply rooted joys for any sailor. But switching to a power charter doesn’t mean you’re abandoning your sailor’s soul. It simply means you’re expanding the ways you enjoy the sea.
In fact, there are very good reasons for sailors—even seasoned ones—to give power charters a try.
1. Weather Independence: Go Where You Want, When You Want
One of the greatest appeals of a sailing vacation is also one of its inherent limitations—reliance on the wind. On a power catamaran, you gain a level of freedom and flexibility that’s hard to beat. Weather not cooperating? No wind in the forecast? Want to stick to your planned itinerary regardless? With powerful twin engines and no need to wait for a breeze, you’re in control.
Power catamarans from The Moorings deliver smooth, stable cruising across an array of worldwide destinations. That means you can still explore every cove, beach bar, and snorkeling site on your list—even if the tradewinds take a day off.
2. Space & Comfort: When Crew Dynamics Matter
Let’s face it: not every sailing crew is made up of young racers eager to crank winches and hoist sails. If you’re traveling with kids, grandparents, or a group with mixed abilities and sailing experience, comfort and accessibility become more important.
Power catamarans offer wide-open spaces, flybridges with panoramic views, and air-conditioned interiors that feel more like luxury apartments than boats. Fewer lines, no heel, and flat, easy movement between levels make them ideal for:
- Families with young children or older relatives
- Groups where not everyone is a confident sailor
- Guests who want to relax, not participate in the rigging
Even longtime sailors may appreciate trading their foul weather gear for a sunhat and an ice-cold drink on a shaded aft deck lounge.
3. Speed & Range: See More, Waste Less Time
Time is precious on vacation. Power catamarans cruise at a faster pace than sailboats—usually 15–20 knots compared to 6–8 under sail. That means you can cover more ground (or water, rather) and fit more adventure into each day.
Want to hop between distant anchorages, or visit that hidden beach the locals mentioned? With the extra speed of a power catamaran, you’re no longer tied to tacking angles or waiting out lulls. You can explore further, linger longer, and still make it back in time for sundowners.
Is it Really the Dark Side?
It’s okay to have mixed feelings about switching from sails to engines. After all, sailing is a passion, a tradition, and a lifestyle. But a power charter isn’t about giving any of that up—it’s about gaining new options.
At The Moorings, we believe that the joy of being on the water transcends what type of vessel you’re on. Whether the wind fills your sails or your engines hum quietly beneath you, what matters most is the freedom, the views, and the laughter of friends and family echoing across the deck.
With a versatile fleet of both sailing and power catamarans available across the globe—from the British Virgin Islands to Tahiti to the Mediterranean—The Moorings invites you to choose the vessel that best suits each occasion.
The Final Word: It’s Your Vacation. Own It.
So go ahead—turn, turn, turn. Try something new. You might find that a power catamaran isn’t the “dark side” at all… just another beautiful path on the water. One that offers more comfort, more speed, and more possibilities for those precious days when your only job is to relax and explore.
And if you decide next time to go back to sails? The wind will always be there, waiting for you.
Contributor
Tina huewe
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