Introduction to Performance Catamarans
Exploring the history, evolution of modern performance cats
with Darren & Amanda Seltzer | Outer Passage
Missed the call?
Join us on August 6th, 2025 at 7:00 PM EST
The call will be recorded for those that can't make it. Register even if you can't attend to be notified of the recording.
90 Minutes
English
Unlimited Access
OVERVIEW
This class is part of an ongoing commitment by Outer Passage and Balance Catamarans to offer education to sailors of all skillsets. As new technologies, innovations, climate changes, and more are introduced, we have teamed with these talented sailors to share the knowledge so that all sailors are better and safer at sea.
This class is an introduction to performance-catamaran sailing. Whether you’re new to multihull sailing or considering transitioning from a monohull, this class will give you the knowledge and confidence to explore life on two hulls.
The class covers the rich history of multihulls, from their Polynesian origins to today’s cutting-edge designs and functions.
Learn what to expect when transitioning from a monohull, including handling, comfort, and performance. This is a different, faster sailing experience and we explain why.
Finally, find out what sets the category of ‘Performance’ catamarans apart from their island charter peers. See more detail below about Balance Catamarans and high performance.
The Topics covered will be
- The Evolution of Catamarans: A Brief History of Multihulls
- Exploring Design Differences Among Catamaran Models
- Making the Transition from Monohulls to Catamarans
- Building Experience: How to Start Sailing Catamarans
FEATURES OF BALANCE CATAMARANS
Stability
Balance Catamarans are designed for real-world offshore sailing, offering impressive stability in a variety of conditions. Thanks to our lightweight, performance-optimized hulls and balanced sail plans, Balance cats ride level under sail and rest steady at anchor. Whether you’re passagemaking or enjoying a quiet anchorage, you’ll feel the difference in comfort and control.
Comfort
Spacious, ergonomic living is a hallmark of Balance design. Our wide beams allow for open salons, well-appointed galley-up layouts, and private en-suite cabins in each hull. Low, sweeping transoms offer safe and easy access to the water, while thoughtful design details — like ventilation, storage, and lighting — make extended living aboard both comfortable and practical.
Versatility
From coastal cruising to bluewater passages, Balance Catamarans are built to adapt. Our signature VersaHelm® allows you to sail comfortably from either the protected interior or the open aft helm. Shallow draft opens up hidden anchorages, while expansive deck and roof space allow for solar arrays, davits, and custom gear. Whether you’re island-hopping or crossing oceans, a Balance is ready.
Performance
Unlike typical charter cats, Balance Catamarans are built to sail fast and sail often. Lightweight construction, advanced composites, daggerboards, and efficient hull shapes mean you can sail in lighter winds and point higher than most cruising multihulls. You don’t need a racing crew to enjoy it either because Balance performance is accessible, manageable, and deeply rewarding for owner-operators.
Missed the call?
Join us on August 6th, 2025 at 7:00 PM EST
The call will be recorded for those that can't make it. Register even if you can't attend to be notified of the recording.About Your Instructors
DARREN & AMANDA SELTZER
Darren and his wife Amanda have racked up over 50,000NM, sailing the Viking route across the Northern Atlantic to Greenland and the U.K., navigating to the edges of the Mediterranean Sea, and completing two circumnavigations of the northern Atlantic Ocean from Europe to the Caribbean and two Balance Catamaran deliveries from South Africa to North America. In these sailing expeditions, they have grown an appreciation for and love of the sea. Today, they share that love through their sail- training business Outer Passage, where they host adventurous souls and those who are multihull curious aboard high-performance Balance Catamarans.
