Updated October 2026
The short answer
A monohull is a sailboat with one hull and a heavy keel underneath. A catamaran has two hulls side by side. Monohulls lean gently with the wind and feel like classic sailing. Catamarans sit flatter and usually carry bigger groups. Esprit de Joy, our Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349, is a monohull built for a private group of up to 6.
1. One hull, one heavy keel
A monohull has a single hull with a weighted keel running down from the bottom. That keel is what keeps the boat steady and lets it sail into the wind.
2. It leans a little, and that is normal
Under sail, a monohull heels, or leans, with the wind. It feels dramatic the first time, but the keel always pulls the boat back upright. On Charleston Harbor’s sheltered water the lean is usually gentle, and your captain can ease it any time you’d like.
3. It sails beautifully into the wind
Monohulls are efficient upwind, which is why most racing sailboats are monohulls, including many of the boats at Charleston Race Week each spring. You’ll feel the boat come alive when the sails fill.
4. It is quiet
Once the sails are up and the engine is off, all you hear is wind and water. It’s a big part of why guests find a sail so relaxing.
5. There is room below deck
Esprit de Joy has a cabin below with a bathroom (sailors call it the head), so a 2.5-hour sail is comfortable for everyone.
6. It feels like real sailing
Want to try? On a monohull you can take the wheel, feel the boat respond and help trim the sails with the captain, or just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Monohull or catamaran: which is right for you?
- Choose a monohull for a private, classic sailing experience with a small group.
- Choose a catamaran if you have a larger group and want the boat to stay flat.
Common questions
Can a monohull sailboat tip over? A monohull leans with the wind, but its weighted keel pulls it back upright. On a harbor charter with a licensed captain, the lean is gentle and controlled.
Is a monohull or a catamaran better for seasickness? Catamarans sit flatter. That said, Charleston Harbor is sheltered, so the water is usually calmer than the open ocean. If you’re prone to seasickness, take something before you sail.
Can I help sail the boat? Yes. Just ask the captain, and you can take the wheel or help with the sails.
Feel it for yourself
Every charter on Esprit de Joy is private, 2.5 hours and up to 6 guests. Check available dates, or compare the Private Sunset Charter and the Private Daytime Charter.
