Catana 581 Information, Review, Specs

The Catana 581 was produced between 1999 and 2003, emerging during a period when Catana, under the new leadership of Yves Gallot-Lavallée, was poised for further development and expansion. The design by Christophe Barreau, a naval architect celebrated for his expertise in high-performance multihulls, aligns perfectly with Catana's core vision. The builder's manufacturing ethos during this era emphasized the use of fiberglass composite materials, particularly Twaron/Vinylester sandwich construction, to ensure both structural strength and a lightweight build. This commitment to advanced construction techniques contributed to the 581's reputation for robustness and agility. The model saw a minor evolution into the Catana 582 around 2000-2001, incorporating updated features, though some owners noted a controversial increase in weight in this progression. A hallmark of Catana design, prominently featured on the 581, includes the signature thin, piercing hulls that lend themselves to exceptional speed and efficiency.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catana 581 is celebrated as a high-performance cruising catamaran, engineered to deliver an engaging sailing experience. Its design, featuring a fractional sloop rig and twin daggerboards, is optimized for speed and upwind prowess. Owners report that the 581 is capable of cruising at impressive speeds of 10-14 knots under sail, with some extreme anecdotal reports of reaching 24 knots in optimal conditions. The inclusion of lifting daggerboards is a key performance enhancer, allowing for improved pointing ability when sailing to windward and significantly reducing draft for access to shallower anchorages. Catana's design philosophy, including a more exposed aft helm position, provides a "sporty helm" that allows the helmsman a direct feel for the boat's motion and responsiveness. The high freeboard and excellent bridge deck clearance inherent in Catana designs also contribute to a drier and more comfortable ride, particularly in choppier sea states, enhancing its blue-water cruising capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Catana 581 is designed for spacious and luxurious long-range cruising, often configured as an "Owner's Version." This popular layout typically features three generous guest cabins in addition to a dedicated crew cabin, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to eight individuals. The master cabin typically boasts a private head with a separate shower room, emphasizing comfort and privacy. The two guest cabins share a well-appointed head, also with a separate shower. The interior finish frequently showcases bleached beech wood with teak trim, creating a bright and elegant ambiance. The main deck saloon and dining area offer panoramic views, enhancing the sense of space and connection with the surrounding environment. A functional galley and an internal pilot station are also typically integrated into the main deck layout. For extended voyages, the Catana 581 is well-equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, fans, and an audio system, ensuring a comfortable living experience in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catana 581 generally praise its robust construction and its ability to cover significant distances with speed and comfort. Many owners have undertaken extensive blue-water voyages, with some spending years circumnavigating the globe on their 581s. The active Catana Owners community provides a valuable resource for shared knowledge and troubleshooting, such as discussions around electrical systems. While there was some discussion regarding an increase in weight with the introduction of the 581 version around 2000, the overall sentiment points to a highly capable and rewarding cruising platform.