Bali Catspace Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bali Catspace entered the market in 2019, reflecting the rapid progression of the Bali catamaran brand, which itself was established in 2014 by the Catana Group. [22, The overarching concept for the Catspace came from Olivier Poncin, CEO of the Catana Group, with the naval architecture and interior design handled by Lasta Design Studio. This collaboration aimed to combine the latest innovations in cruising with an intelligent design, embodying a bold and modern aesthetic. The Catana Group, with its four-decade history, transitioned from its early focus on high-performance Catana models to embracing the broader market demand for comfort-oriented catamarans through the Bali brand. The group's ethos during this era, under Poncin's leadership, shifted towards maximizing living spaces and incorporating features unique to the Bali line, such as the integral deck that creates vast open areas. A defining characteristic of Bali catamarans, and evident in the Catspace, is the solid foredeck and the innovative "garage door" style aft door that seamlessly integrates the saloon and cockpit, further amplifying the feeling of open space. The design also incorporates a high bridgedeck, specifically intended to minimize slamming in varying sea conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bali Catspace is engineered for safe and comfortable cruising, rather than high-speed racing. With a hull speed of approximately 8.34 knots, its performance profile emphasizes stability and ease of operation. The catamaran features easy-handling characteristics, including a self-tacking jib and a thoughtfully arranged deck plan, making it particularly accommodating for novice sailors. While some owners note that the Catspace may not be a particularly fast performer, describing it as "slow" or handling "like a turd" in some conditions, it is often praised for being well-suited for motor sailing and comfortable in stronger winds. The robust keel bodies are also a practical design feature, allowing the vessel to stand on them without issue when on land or drying out in tidal areas. The integral deck and flybridge also contribute to a functional and comfortable on-deck experience, providing ample space for relaxation and sail handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bali Catspace is designed with a "loft-style" concept, creating a continuous, open living area that flows seamlessly from the cockpit to the saloon. This design maximizes the onboard volume, offering a remarkable amount of space for a catamaran of its size. The Catspace is commonly available in both three and four-cabin configurations, providing flexibility for different cruising needs, from private owner's versions to charter-friendly layouts. In the owner's version, the entire port hull is typically dedicated to a comprehensive suite, complete with a sofa and desk/dressing area. The interior styling, crafted by Lasta Design, combines modern and refined materials to achieve a contemporary design that prioritizes quality and elegance. Beyond the main living areas, the Catspace offers innovative interior features and ample storage, creating a comfortable and functional "hotel room" like experience for its occupants.

Owner's Perspectives

Owner feedback on the Bali Catspace tends to highlight both its significant strengths and a few areas for consideration. The most frequently praised aspect is the unparalleled living space and overall comfort it provides. Owners consistently appreciate the open saloon, the solid foredeck, and the large flybridge, which contribute to an expansive and luxurious cruising experience. Its easy handling features are also often cited as a major benefit, making it suitable for a wide range of sailors.

However, some owners have shared mixed reviews regarding sailing performance, with a few noting that the boat can be slow and its handling less agile compared to more performance-oriented catamarans. There have also been anecdotal reports concerning initial quality, with some owners commenting on "broken parts upon delivery," particularly for boats produced in Tunisia. Despite these points, the collective viewpoint suggests that for those prioritizing vast living spaces, comfort, and a user-friendly sailing experience, the Bali Catspace delivers on its promise as a modern, innovative cruising catamaran.