Indicative guidance only: This site's cost model is built around monohulls and has not been calibrated for catamarans or validated against current quotes. See the editorial policy.
Quick answer
Expect a catamaran re-rig to cost more than a monohull of the same length. Catamaran rigs are taller and more heavily loaded, wire and fittings are larger, forestay bridles and beam fittings add components, and the lift needs a bigger crane. Use the monohull estimator at your boat's length as a floor, then rely on itemised quotes.
What drives catamaran re-rig cost
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Mast height | Longer stays, bigger crane |
| Wire diameter | High loads from a boat that doesn't heel |
| Forestay bridle or beam | Extra stays, terminals and fittings |
| Mainsail systems | Heavy halyards, car and track, reefing lines |
| Chainplates | Bonded into hulls; access can be difficult |
| Crane access | Beam width can limit which cranes and berths work |
For reference: the monohull model at common catamaran lengths
| Length | 1x19 stainless monohull band (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 40 ft | $11,500 – $18,600 |
| 45 ft | $14,200 – $23,000 |
| 50 ft | $17,100 – $27,800 |
Catamaran quotes commonly sit toward the top of, or above, these bands.
Planning tips
- confirm the crane and berth can handle the boat's beam
- ask whether the bridle is wire or Dyneema, and whether to change it
- combine with furler service and running rigging
- inspect chainplates and the mast compression structure
By brand
See catamaran rigging for the technical background.
Frequently asked questions
Why does a catamaran cost more to re-rig than a monohull?
Cruising catamarans typically carry taller masts, larger wire diameters and bigger mainsail hardware than a monohull of the same length, because a stiff multihull loads its rig harder. The mast lift usually needs a larger crane, and forestay bridles and beam fittings add components.
Can I use the monohull estimator for a catamaran?
Only as a lower reference point. This site's cost model was built around monohulls and has not been calibrated for catamarans, so expect catamaran quotes to sit toward the top of, or above, the monohull band for the same length.