Course
Catamaran (beginner & intermediate)
- Duration
- 16 hours (indicative)
- Fee
- Per programme — ask for a quote.
Multihull theory and practice; Hobie 16 and crew manoeuvres.
1. Theory
- Our catamaran (technical overview)
- Sails (mainsail & jib)
- Rudders, wind, points of sail
- Core concepts, manoeuvres, rules of the road at sea
- Knots
2. Practice
- Rigging
- Launching through surf
- Tacking and gybing
- Reaching legs
- Stopping the boat
- Crew-overboard recovery
- Righting after capsize
- Right-of-way scenarios
- Beach landing without surf and drying out
3. Safety
4. Advanced track (rental-oriented)
For sailors aiming to charter a beach cat: surf exits/entries, powered-up control, crisp manoeuvres, reverse tack, recovery from capsize, gaining ground to windward.
Frequently asked questions
Which catamaran is used on the course?
A Hobie 16 sport catamaran, one of the most popular beach multihulls in the world.
Do I need prior experience for the catamaran course?
Not for the beginner level: it starts with theory on the boat, sails, rudders, wind, points of sail and basic knots.
How long is the catamaran course?
Around 16 hours as a guide, split between theory and practice; it adapts to the group's level and pace.
What happens if the catamaran capsizes?
It's part of learning: you'll practise righting the catamaran, as well as man-overboard recovery and how to stop the boat.
Which manoeuvres will I learn?
Rigging, launching from and landing on the beach, tacking and gybing, beating upwind, stopping the boat, man overboard and beaching. The advanced level adds launching through surf, sailing heeled in strong wind, reverse tacking and gaining ground to windward.
Will it help me rent a catamaran afterwards?
Yes. The advanced level is designed for people who want to rent a catamaran independently, and the school rents Hobie 16 and Hobie 20 catamarans in Bacalar.
How much does the catamaran course cost and how do I sign up?
The fee depends on the format and group size. Message us on WhatsApp at +52 55 2215 3849 or email navegabacalar@gmail.com and we'll send you a quote and available dates.
Book here
We confirm the dates, availability and the conditions of the day with you. Outings depend on the wind and the state of the lagoon: if the day is not sailable, we reschedule.
Book on WhatsAppIt is the fastest route — we usually reply the same day.
No WhatsApp? Write to us from the contact form or by email at navegabacalar@gmail.com.