Sailing catamaran - decision tree (build vs refit vs buy)

Purpose: provide a structured, source-linked workspace to decide between three options for a 38-48 ft Length along the waterline (LWL) / 39-52 ft Overall length (LOA) sailing catamaran project on cost, complexity, and time-to-completion.

The three-option decision space

Custom-built sailing catamaran: design/build new hulls and systems to spec.
Project sailing catamaran: refit or rebuild an existing boat to meet requirements.
Ready-to-sail sailing catamaran: buy fully equipped, meeting requirements now.

Document tree

Decision space overview - what each option means; the core tradeoffs
Requirements - dimensional, accommodation, galley/salon/nav/cockpit, safety, systems targets
Evaluation framework - how we will score cost, complexity, and timeline
Comparison matrix - initial matrix (placeholders; to be filled with sourced data)
Options
Systems index - stubs for major physical systems + "non-boat" systems

Next research passes (later)

Candidate boat list for the ready-to-sail option: makes/models that meet draft/beam/clearance constraints.
Candidate donor boats for the project/refit option: common refit baselines and known failure modes.
Build approaches: kit vs plans vs full custom; material/yard options; survey + insurance + compliance constraints.
Per system: alternatives, BOM, pricing ranges, and primary sources.