A catamaran is a watercraft with two parallel hulls of equal size. The term "catamaran" is derived from the Tamil word "kattumaram," which means logs bound together. The distance between the two hulls of a catamaran imparts resistance to rolling and overturning, making it more stable than a monohull of comparable length. Catamarans typically have less hull volume, smaller displacement, and shallower draft than monohulls of comparable length, and the two hulls combined often have a smaller hydrodynamic resistance than comparable monohulls, requiring less propulsive power from either sails or motors. The wider stance of a catamaran on the water can reduce both heeling and wave-induced motion, as compared with a monohull, and can give reduced wakes.
Catamarans range in size from small sailing or rowing vessels to large naval ships and roll-on/roll-off car ferries. The structure connecting a catamarans two hulls ranges from a simple frame strung with webbing to support a trampoline to a bridging superstructure incorporating extensive cabin and/or cargo space. Catamarans are used for a variety of activities, including cruising, racing, fishing, and chartering.
