Catana 55 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Catana 55 is defined by its use of asymmetrical daggerboards, a feature that distinguishes it from the vast majority of cruising catamarans equipped with fixed mini-keels. According to an editorial review by Cruising World, these boards allow the boat to point significantly higher than its competitors, often achieving tacking angles comparable to performance monohulls. By raising the boards when sailing downwind, the yacht reduces drag and minimizes the risk of "tripping" over its own keels in heavy breaking seas.

Handling is managed from the signature twin outboard helm stations located at the aft end of each hull. This positioning provides an unobstructed view of the sail plan and the horizon, offering a tactile "dinghy-like" feel that is rare in a vessel of this displacement. However, this configuration places the helmsman in an exposed position, a trade-off for the superior visibility and mechanical steering linkage. With a sail-area-to-displacement ratio that sits comfortably in the performance tier, the 55 is capable of sailing at wind speed in light airs and frequently hits double-digit speeds under a reacher or gennaker. The use of a "tulip-shaped" hull design provides narrow waterlines for speed while flaring out above the waterline to create the interior volume necessary for long-term cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catana 55 reflects the brand's "weight-conscious luxury" philosophy. To maintain performance, the shipyard utilized foam-cored cabinetry with real wood veneers (often maple or cherry), ensuring the interior feels substantial without the weight penalty of solid timber. The most common configuration is the "Owner’s Version," which devotes the entire starboard hull to a master suite featuring a large semi-island berth, a dedicated office desk, and a spacious head with a separate walk-in shower.

The port hull typically contains two guest cabins, each with an en-suite head. A rarer four-cabin "Charter" or "Guest" variant exists, though most 55s were built for private owners. The salon and galley are located on a single level, featuring a panoramic 360-degree view. Notable for this model is the seamless transition between the cockpit and the salon, facilitated by a large sliding door that creates a unified living space. This layout was a precursor to the modern "open-concept" designs seen in the later Catana Ocean Class.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Catana 55 has earned a reputation among the high-latitude and extreme-voyage community. It gained visibility through various circumnavigators who documented the model’s ability to handle the "Southern Ocean" conditions often avoided by lighter-built cruising cats. The model has been featured extensively in technical reviews by Sail Magazine, where it was praised for its robust construction and ability to maintain high average speeds without punishing the crew.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Catana 55 should focus their inspections on the technical complexities inherent in a performance-oriented multihull.

• Daggerboard Trunks and Gaskets: The daggerboard trunks are subject to significant lateral loads. Inspect the trunks for stress cracking and check the condition of the gaskets and the lifting lines (which are often led to electric winches).
• Outboard Helm Exposure: Because the helms are exposed to the elements, the electronics and engine controls at these stations often suffer from UV degradation and salt ingress faster than cockpit-protected consoles.
• Digital Switching Systems: Early iterations of the 55 often featured complex digital power management systems. If these haven't been updated, parts can be difficult to source; a thorough test of the DC bus and switching logic is essential.
• Bimini and Canvas Integration: Many owners added aftermarket "hard" biminis to the 55 to protect the helms. It is vital to check how these were integrated into the coachroof and if they interfere with the boom or mainsheet clearance.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Catana 55 typically congregate within the Catana Owners Association, a well-organized group that shares technical data and maintenance tips. The brand also maintains a strong presence at the International Multihull Show in La Grande-Motte, where technical support and factory updates are often discussed.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of sustained 10-15 knot speeds in the right conditions.
• Pointing Ability: Daggerboards allow for superior upwind performance compared to fixed-keel cats.
• Construction Quality: Vacuum-infused hulls with carbon reinforcement offer high structural integrity.
• Safety: High bridge deck clearance reduces slamming in heavy seas.

Cons:

• Exposed Helms: Steering in foul weather requires heavy foul-weather gear or the use of an autopilot from the interior.
• Complexity: Daggerboards and performance rigging require more active management than a standard cruising catamaran.
• Price: Maintains a high resale value, making it a significant investment compared to mass-production models.