Catana 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Catana 42 is frequently cited by reviewers as a "driver’s boat," standing in stark contrast to the more sedentary, fixed-keel charter catamarans of its size class. The inclusion of deep, retractable daggerboards allows the boat to point much higher into the wind, often achieving tacking angles of 85 to 90 degrees, which is exceptional for a cruising multihull. According to performance evaluations by Sail Magazine, the 42 benefits from a generous sail-area-to-displacement ratio, allowing it to remain powered up in light airs where heavier competitors would be forced to motor.

Handling is defined by the twin outboard helm stations located at the aft end of each hull. While these positions offer excellent visibility of the sail plan and a clear view forward through the side decks, they leave the helmsman exposed to the elements—a trade-off Catana owners traditionally accept for the sake of mechanical steering feedback. The boat’s "sea-kindliness" is enhanced by its high bridge deck clearance, which minimizes the "slapping" or "pounding" often felt in choppy head seas. Under power, the twin engines are spaced widely apart, providing exceptional maneuverability in tight marinas despite the boat’s 22-foot beam.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catana 42 reflects the brand’s move toward a more contemporary, light-filled aesthetic compared to the dark woods of the 1990s models. The most popular configuration is the "Owner’s Version," which dedicates the entire starboard hull to a master suite featuring a queen-sized berth, a dedicated desk/office area, and a spacious head with a separate shower stall. The port hull typically contains two guest cabins and a shared head. A four-cabin "Charter Version" was also produced, though it is less common on the private market.

The bridgedeck saloon is notable for its panoramic 360-degree views and seamless integration with the cockpit. Unlike modern "open-concept" catamarans, the Catana 42 maintains a dedicated inward-facing galley and a proper navigation station, emphasizing its role as a long-distance passage maker. High-quality foam-core cabinetry is used throughout to keep weight down without compromising the tactile feel of the joinery. While the 42 lacks the massive flybridge lounges of more "condo-style" catamarans, the cockpit is ergonomic and well-protected by a hardtop bimini, which serves as a mounting platform for substantial solar arrays.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Catana 42 gained significant visibility through its association with the "performance cruising" movement of the early 2010s, often being featured in comparative tests against the Outremer 45 and the Nautitech 441. It remains a staple of the "YouTube Cruiser" era, where its ability to outrun weather systems and maintain 200-nautical-mile days has made it a favorite for couples documenting circumnavigations.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Catana 42 with a focus on the mechanical and structural complexities that come with a performance multihull.

• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the trunks for signs of stress cracking or impact damage. The 42’s boards are substantial, and if the boat was grounded with them down, the structural integrity of the trunk housing must be verified.
• Saildrive Diaphragms: As many units are now over a decade old, the rubber seals on the Volvo or Yanmar saildrives should be checked for age-related perishing, a standard but critical maintenance item.
• Delamination Check: While the infusion process is generally high-quality, any after-market installations (like through-hulls or heavy equipment) that were not properly sealed can lead to moisture ingress in the foam core.
• Running Rigging Friction: Due to the outboard helm positions and the complex lead of lines to the cockpit winches, check for excessive friction in the blocks and organizers, which can make reefing more difficult than necessary.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Catana 42 are supported by a niche but highly technical community. The most prominent resource is the Catana Owners Association, which maintains an active technical database for members. While the shipyard underwent a brand shift toward the "Bali" line for the mass market, technical support for the "Classic" Catana models like the 42 is still coordinated through the Catana Group headquarters in Canet-en-Roussillon, France.

The Verdict

The Catana 42 remains one of the most balanced 40-foot multihulls ever produced, offering a genuine "sailor’s" experience without the spartan interior of a racing trimaran.

Pros:

• Superior windward performance thanks to curved daggerboards.
• Advanced carbon-infused construction provides a stiff, responsive hull.
• High bridge deck clearance significantly reduces pounding in heavy seas.
• Exceptional visibility of the sails from the outboard helm stations.

Cons:

• Outboard helms provide minimal protection from rain and spray.
• Daggerboards require active management and add to the vessel's draft when down.
• Higher maintenance requirements for the complex rigging and moving boards.
• Limited "lounge" space compared to modern, beamier cruising catamarans.