Catana Catamarans

On a catamaran, comfortable sailing means no heeling or rolling. It is about pitching control and smooth passage in heavy seas, result of an in-depth study of the hull shapes, the distribution of the volumes, the weight centering. It is also about having a boat that is easy to sail with a family crew or short-handed, balanced so that it can hold its course wel and offers a smooth and precise helm in any weather. It’s about a boat able to sail in shallow waters and anchor close to the beach.
Tacking and reefing is easy and done from the cockpit. Comfort is also about an extremely solid boat, reassuring and efficient in all conditions - and which forgives mistakes.

The Stability

An excellent beam/length ratio and hulI inclination give a CATANA outstanding static and dynamic stability. A cruising catamaran offers you an important stability (righting moment several times greater than that of a monohull of comparative length - Fig. 1).

Thus, no more heeling. This feature is even enhanced on a CATANA. To increase the overall stability of the boat without overly increasing its total width (meaning added weight and efforts on the structure), the hulls are tilted outwards (Fig.2).

Centering the weights

The elongated waterline, as the centering of the weights, stabilise the boat and reduce pitching (Fig.3).

The length of the platform (B) has to be exact: the shorter it is, the better is the centre of gravity and pitching into the sea is reduced. The layout of stowage lockers has been designed to optimize the centre of gravity. The lockers forward of the watertight bulkheads are for lighter stowage such as fenders, cockpit cushions and the spinnaker. Heavier equipment and fittings, such as the anchor, batteries and diesel tanks, are centered at the foot of the mast. The water tanks are under the deck sole, at the centre of gravity. Other heavy fittings are in cockpit lockers.

Anchoring with centered weights


The electric windlass, built-in the anchor locker, is fixed onto a reinforced base. The main anchor and galvanised chain are also integrated in the locker. This means that the weight of the anchor and chain is centred undemeath the trampoline, which is totally uncluttered, safe and comfortable.

Ease of manoeuvring


Every CATANA is equipped with a reefing system that is both quick and easy to use, handled from the cockpit with one electric winch... all for your comfort. The genoa is roller-furling and the spinnaker comes with a sock.  
Handling the sails couldn’t be easier. Everything can be done without leaving the shelter of the cockpit, whether you’re sailing single-handed or with a crew.  
Because many of our customers do sail single or short--handed, we fit our boats with the highest quality equipment in such a way that one person can easily saiI them... another important safety factor.

Self-aligning steering system


The CATANA come equipped with an hydraulic steering system with a synchronization valve to realign the rudders automatically, and double sector bearings. The over-dimensioned rudder posts are guided by spherical polyacetal halls in aluminium sockets (as in all ocean racing boats). The rudder blades are highly balanced ; they move easily making steering light and smooth, in all weather or sea conditions.

Ergonomic decks plan


The deck bas been carefully designed: the passageways are totally clear, the positioning and quality of the deck hardware make manoeuvring incredibly easy. The positioning of the toerails, lifelines and handrails increase safety aboard. For the mainsail, two snap-shackle blocks enable you to adjust the sheets more quickly during tacking and to prevent the boom while reaching.
And the automatic reefing system from the cockpit bas been classified "terrific" by our customers.

Insulation, ventilation and solar protection


Thermal insulation has been developed to guarantee comfortable and well-ventilated living, even in very hot weather. The sandwich deck ensures constant insulation and the side ventilation is particularly efficient, even in the ram (Fig.4). All our head linings are insulating and ultra light. The large coach-roof portholes come with external isothermic curtains - the most efficient way to avoid the greenhouse effect by eliminating 90 per cent of the solar rays. These curtains also bring you privacy, while giving you a view outside simultaneously. Large opening panels provide excellent ventilation to the salon and the sizeable sliding door, creates a highly sociable environment. Each porthole is equipped with a shutter and mosquito net which allow permanent ventilation and protection, even in mosquito invaded areas !

The accomodation :
« great comfort and living quality »


A CATANA is extremely spacious. With its 360° panoramic view, you’ll be surprised at the space and stowage room in the salon. Its direct access to the cockpit acts as the central living area of the boat. The hulls have been designed for your relaxation and comfort. Each cabin is light and airy. The functional heads, which have separate showers, are a delight to use and have been greatly appreciated by our customers.