Catamaran Hire — MatesBoat
There's a reason catamarans have become one of the most sought-after vessels on the water. Two hulls, a wide open deck, exceptional stability, and more usable space than almost anything else you can charter at a similar size. Whether you're new to boating or you've spent years on the water, catamaran hire offers an experience that's genuinely hard to match.
MatesBoat connects you directly with catamaran hire operators and private owners across Australia — no agency markups, no inflated booking fees, no middleman between you and the person who actually knows the vessel. Just straightforward access to some of the best catamaran hire experiences the country has to offer.
Browse Catamaran ListingsWhat Is Catamaran?
Every catamaran hire listing on MatesBoat is different, and that variety is one of the platform's strengths. You'll find everything from compact performance cats suited to small groups, through to large, fully appointed sailing catamarans with multiple cabins, full galleys, and everything needed for extended overnight or multi-day trips.
Every catamaran hire listing on MatesBoat is different, and that variety is one of the platform's strengths. You'll find everything from compact performance cats suited to small groups, through to large, fully appointed sailing catamarans with multiple cabins, full galleys, and everything needed for extended overnight or multi-day trips.
One of the first decisions you'll make when browsing catamaran hire on MatesBoat is whether you want a skippered charter or a bareboat arrangement.
Skippered catamaran hire is the most popular option for people who want to enjoy the day without worrying about navigation, docking, or the mechanical side of things. Your licensed skipper handles the vessel, knows the local waterways, and typically doubles as a guide — taking you to the best spots, managing the weather, and making sure the day runs smoothly from departure to return. If you don't hold a marine licence, a skippered catamaran hire is the way to go.
Bareboat catamaran hire is for experienced sailors who want the freedom to take the helm themselves. You plan the route, manage the vessel, and have the kind of independence that comes from genuinely knowing what you're doing on the water. If that's you, MatesBoat has bareboat catamaran hire options available — and the listing details will tell you exactly what licence and experience level the owner requires.
Not sure which is right for you? Read the listing details carefully, and don't hesitate to reach out to the owner directly. They'll give you an honest answer based on your experience level and what you're planning to do.
What's Included
Why Choose Catamaran?
Ask anyone who's spent a day on a catamaran, and they'll tell you the same thing — it just feels different. The stability alone changes everything. No heeling, no listing to one side, no white-knuckling the railing while someone else enjoys the view. Catamarans sit flat on the water, which means everyone on board is comfortable, and the deck space that it creates feels genuinely generous in a way that a similarly sized monohull simply can't replicate.
That open deck space is one of the biggest practical reasons people choose to hire a catamaran. Whether you're travelling with a group, bringing kids along, or just want room to spread out and actually enjoy the day, a catamaran gives you that space, making the whole experience more relaxed. There's room for everyone to find their spot — whether that's up on the trampoline nets at the bow watching the water pass underneath, in the shade of the cockpit with a drink in hand, or inside the cabin when the sun gets serious.
The shallow draft of most catamarans also means access to anchorages and bays that deeper monohulls simply can't reach — which, if you're exploring coastline with a skipper who knows where the best spots are, makes a very real difference to the quality of the day.
Catamarans are purpose-built for groups, and it shows. The combination of wide deck space, multiple seating areas, shelter options, and the flat, stable platform underfoot makes catamaran hire the natural choice when you're heading out with more than a handful of people.
Birthday celebrations. Hen's days. Family reunions. Corporate group outings. The kind of day where you want everyone to actually be comfortable and have a good time — not wedged into a small cockpit trying to find somewhere to sit. The opportunity to hire a catamaran provides groups with the space to actually enjoy the occasion rather than endure it.
Birthday celebrations. Hen's days. Family reunions. Corporate group outings. The kind of day where you want everyone to actually be comfortable and have a good time — not wedged into a small cockpit trying to find somewhere to sit. The opportunity to hire a catamaran provides groups with the space to actually enjoy the occasion rather than endure it.
Perfect For These Occasions
Group celebrations
Birthday celebrations, hen's days, family reunions, and corporate outings all work beautifully on a catamaran. The wide deck, multiple seating areas, and stable platform mean everyone is comfortable and has space to actually enjoy the occasion.
Overnight and multi-day escapes
Multi-day catamaran hire opens up stretches of Australian coastline that simply aren't accessible any other way. Anchor in a secluded bay, wake up to calm water and morning light, and spend the day exploring somewhere new.
Families and kids
The flat, stable platform and generous deck space make catamaran hire one of the most family-friendly options available. Calm conditions, plenty of room to move, and a comfortable ride make it a great choice for mixed-age groups and families with younger kids.
Corporate and client entertaining
A catamaran charter for a corporate group delivers something a conference room simply cannot — shared experience, open space, and a setting that makes real conversations happen. Whether it's a client day, a team reward, or an end-of-year function, catamaran hire delivers.
How to Find the Right Catamaran
Catamaran hire pricing on MatesBoat varies depending on vessel size, charter duration, whether the hire is skippered or bareboat, and the time of year. Day rates for smaller boats start at the more accessible end of the market, while larger, fully equipped sailing catamarans with experienced skippers command a premium that reflects the vessel and the experience.
The best way to get an accurate picture is to browse listings directly, compare what's included, and reach out to owners with your specific requirements. MatesBoat charges zero commission, and there are no agency fees built into the price, so what you see on the listing is a genuine reflection of what the owner charges — not an inflated rate with margins stacked on top.
Own a catamaran and not making the most of the days it sits idle? Catamaran hire is one of the strongest performing categories on the MatesBoat platform, and for good reason — demand for quality catamaran experiences in Australia consistently outpaces supply.
Listing your vessel on MatesBoat is free. No commissions, no advertising fees, no subscription. You set the rates, manage your own availability, and connect directly with renters who are genuinely looking for what you're offering. The platform handles the SEO, the marketing, and the booking infrastructure — all you need to do is show up and deliver a great experience.
Whether you're running a commercial catamaran hire operation or simply want to put a privately owned vessel to work on the days you're not using it, MatesBoat gives you the audience and the tools to make it worthwhile.
MatesBoat catamaran hire listings span Australia's best boating destinations — from Sydney Harbour and Port Phillip Bay to the Gold Coast, the Whitsundays, and beyond. Whatever waterway you're planning to explore, there's a catamaran and an operator ready to make the day exceptional.
Browse listings, compare vessels, and book directly with the owner. No agency fees, no inflated rates, no unnecessary complexity. Just Australia's best catamaran hire experiences, in one place.
Live Catamaran Listings
Experience unforgettable moments with sailing events by Victorian Yacht Charters, offering a range of ceremonies and cruises that celebrate life's special occasions on the stunning Port Phillip Bay and Mornington Peninsula. For those looking to propose, consider a Romantic Proposal Cruise, featuring breathtaking views and the option of a professional violinist to enhance the experience. Enjoy a 2 to 4-hour cruise with a gourmet cheese platter and sparkling wine as you create precious memories. Celebrate with friends on a Sunset Cruise where you can sail during the golden hour, enjoying a glass of bubbly and a gourmet platter. This cruise operates from Mt. Martha for a minimum of 4 guests, making it suitable for romantic outings or family celebrations. For food enthusiasts, the 1-1/2 hour Lunch and Dinner Cruises combine splendid yacht experiences with a delicious 2-course meal at a local restaurant, all while soaking up breathtaking sea views. Available on Sundays and Saturdays, with a minimum age requirement of 16. Host a fun-filled Hen’s Party aboard the yacht, with options to bring your own food or arrange catering, emphasising a relaxed atmosphere with music and swimming opportunities. Lastly, for corporate groups, the Corporate Sailing Experience provides a unique team-building environment aboard our Catalina 355 yacht, focusing on problem-solving and client entertainment in a spectacular setting. Scattering Ashes Ceremony, a private and dignified farewell aboard a luxury yacht. This serene experience allows you to honor a loved one’s life with exclusive charter access for a minimum of 2 hours, onboard refreshments, an optional celebrant, assistance with eco-friendly scattering methods, and up to 8 guests. With comprehensive options tailored for every occasion, Victorian Yacht Charters ensures a memorable experience at sea.
Embark on a winter whale adventure discovering Phillip Island’s picturesque coastline. Experience a remarkable whale-watching adventure departing from Rhyll to circumnavigate Phillip Island. Keep a keen eye out for humpback and southern right whales, eagerly searching for their magnificent blow, distinct water footprint, or graceful dorsal fin. These whales can exhibit various captivating behaviors such as tail and peduncle slapping, spy-hopping, feeding whilst others are just travelling through the area. Explore Seal Rocks, where numerous Australian Fur Seals can be observed in their natural habitat. Encounter common or bottlenose dolphins frolicking in the boat’s wake. Throughout the cruise, our knowledgeable captain and crew provide historical insights and interpret the wildlife. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity, only a 1.5-2 hour drive from Melbourne. Highlights Encounters with migrating humpback and/or southern right whales (Expected 85%) Be captivated by dolphins frolicking alongside the boat (Expected 80%) Discover a natural habitat for seabirds such as Shy Albatross and Australasian gannets. Be enthralled by thousands of Australian fur seals when visiting Seal Rocks Learn about the history of the area Gain insights about the marine life and wildlife that populate Phillip Island and surrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Catamaran hire offers stability, space, and comfort that most other vessel types simply can't match at a similar size. Two hulls mean the vessel sits flat on the water — no heeling, no listing, no white-knuckling the railing. The wide deck space that creates is genuinely generous, making catamaran hire particularly well suited to groups, families, and anyone who wants a relaxed day on the water.
It depends on the listing. Skippered catamaran hire options don't require you to hold a licence — your skipper handles the vessel throughout the booking. Bareboat catamaran hire requires a valid recreational marine licence appropriate for the vessel and waterway. Licence and experience requirements are clearly stated on each listing — read them carefully before enquiring.
Skippered catamaran hire means an experienced captain handles the vessel, the navigation, and the route — you're free to enjoy the day without any of the responsibility. Bareboat catamaran hire is for licensed, experienced sailors who want to take the helm themselves. If you're unsure which suits you, reach out to the listing owner — they'll give you an honest answer based on your experience level.
It varies by vessel. Smaller performance cats on MatesBoat suit groups of four to six, while larger sailing catamarans can comfortably accommodate ten or more. For group bookings, always check the maximum capacity on the listing and discuss numbers directly with the operator before confirming.
Yes — and it's one of the best ways to experience catamaran hire. Well-appointed sailing catamarans with live-aboard capability are available through MatesBoat for overnight and extended passages. The cabin space on a properly fitted catamaran rivals a decent hotel room — with considerably better views. Book early for multi-day listings, particularly across summer and school holidays.
Absolutely. The flat, stable platform and generous deck space of a catamaran make catamaran hire one of the most family-friendly options available on MatesBoat. Calm conditions, plenty of room to move, and a comfortable ride make it a great choice for mixed-age groups and families with younger kids.
Inclusions vary across listings. Most catamaran hire listings on MatesBoat include safety equipment meeting Australian maritime standards, flexible itineraries, and direct contact with the owner. Fuel, tackle, catering, and additional gear vary by listing — read the details carefully and confirm with the owner before booking.
Pricing varies depending on vessel size, charter duration, skippered or bareboat arrangement, and time of year. Because MatesBoat charges zero commission and there are no agency fees built into the price, what you see on each catamaran hire listing is a genuine reflection of what the owner charges. Browse listings directly to compare options and reach out for a quote specific to your plans.
Yes — and catamaran hire is one of the strongest performing categories on the platform. Listing is completely free, with no commissions and no lock-in. You set your own rates, manage your own availability, and MatesBoat handles the SEO and marketing.
Browse catamaran hire listings on MatesBoat by location, group size, and duration. Each listing includes full vessel details, inclusions, and direct contact with the owner. When something looks right, reach out directly, confirm availability and details, and book. No agency fees, no inflated prices — just straightforward access to the best catamaran hire Australia has to offer.