Catana 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Catana 40 marked the beginning of Catana's journey, with its production spanning from 1984 to 1992. The builder, founded in Cogolin, France, adopted its distinctive name, a nod to the legendary Japanese "Katana" sword, directly referencing the thin, piercing hulls that would become a hallmark of their designs. This choice underscored Catana's early vision: to produce swift and capable cruising multihulls built with fiberglass composite materials, emphasizing both strength and lightweight construction.

Locke Crowther, an influential Australian multihull designer, was instrumental in shaping the Catana 40. His philosophy favored performance-oriented catamaran designs, and the Catana 40 was one of his notable creations. During its production run, two distinct versions were built: the 40C, produced from 1984 to 1988 (11 units), and the 40S, built from 1989 to 1992 (5 units). The later 40S model featured a narrower beam, indicating subtle refinements in the design over time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catana 40, with its nearly 40-foot length overall and a long waterline, was designed for impressive sailing capabilities. Its reported sail area of 947 square feet combined with a displacement of 12,320 pounds results in a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 305.4. This exceptionally high ratio is characteristic of a performance-oriented catamaran, suggesting excellent responsiveness and spirited performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions.

Furthermore, the Catana 40 exhibits a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 86.6. This indicates a relatively light displacement for its length, reinforcing its design as a swift cruiser rather than a heavy, ponderous vessel. As a catamaran, the vessel's stability primarily derives from its wide beam of 19.69 feet and inherent form stability, rather than relying on internal or external ballast, which is not applicable to its design.

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig and twin daggerboards, the Catana 40 offers enhanced upwind performance and the flexibility to reduce draft when desired. Owners have noted that the boat is remarkably easy to maneuver, even in close quarters, thanks to its twin engines. This blend of design features contributes to a catamaran known for its performance during navigation and robust handling in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Catana 40 is designed to provide comfortable accommodations for extended cruising. Typically, the layout includes four double cabins, offering ample sleeping arrangements for a crew or family. These cabins are complemented by two bathrooms, each fitted with a manual toilet and shower. While specific headroom figures are not available, Catana's broader design philosophy emphasizes thoughtful deck plans and interior layouts to ensure both comfort and performance. The use of fiberglass composite materials in construction ensures a durable and robust finish throughout the interior, consistent with Catana's commitment to quality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catana 40 often praise its combination of performance and cruising comfort, a hallmark of Catana's early designs. The Catana 40 has been recognized in owner reviews for its sailing prowess, noted as an "excellent sailing boat at all points of sail." Its robust construction and ability to handle various sea conditions are frequently highlighted strengths, making it a reliable choice for blue-water passages. While specific common issues for the Catana 40 are not extensively documented in broad owner forums, the brand's reputation for quality construction generally translates to enduring vessels that are well-regarded by their owners.