Catana 62 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Catana 62 are defined by its ability to point significantly higher than its fixed-keel competitors. This is largely due to its deep, high-aspect-ratio daggerboards, which reduce leeway and allow the boat to behave more like a performance monohull when beating to windward. In a breeze, the 62 is known for its "long-legged" gait, capable of sustained speeds exceeding 15 knots on a reach. The power-to-weight ratio is substantial, yet the boat remains manageable for a couple thanks to a deck layout that brings all primary control lines—including the mainsheet and daggerboard controls—to the safety of the cockpit or the winch islands.

Handling is further distinguished by the signature twin outboard helm stations. Positioning the helmsman at the extreme aft corners of each hull provides an unobstructed view of the sail plan and the oncoming sea state, though it leaves the sailor exposed to the elements compared to a protected bulkhead station. According to technical insights often shared by Catana Catamarans, the hull shape features a marked "tulip" flare above the waterline, which provides necessary buoyancy in heavy seas while keeping the wetted surface area narrow for speed. This design philosophy ensures that the 62 tracks exceptionally well in a following sea, resisting the rhythmic "hobby-horsing" common in shorter, wider multihulls.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catana 62 is a study in weight-sensitive luxury. To maintain the vessel's performance targets, the cabinetry often utilizes foam-cored sandwich construction with high-quality veneers like light oak or maple. The most common configuration is the "Owner’s Version," which devotes the entire starboard hull to a master suite featuring a king-sized berth, a dedicated office space, and an expansive head with a separate walk-in shower.

The bridge deck is characterized by a seamless flow between the galley and the cockpit, separated by a large sliding glass door. The galley is typically positioned to port, often featuring a U-shaped or "L" configuration with high-end appliances and ample refrigeration for long-range voyaging. A significant sibling variant is the "Grand Voyage" layout, which might sacrifice a fourth guest cabin for a dedicated workshop or additional storage for circumnavigation gear. Because the 62 shares its hull DNA with the earlier Catana 59, buyers will find that many internal upgrades developed for the 59—such as recessed lighting and improved ventilation systems—were standardized in the 62 production run.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Catana 62 has earned a reputation among the "fast cruising" elite, often featured in technical reviews by publications like Multihulls World and Yachting World. Its status as a premier blue-water vessel is underscored by its frequent participation in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), where Catana models consistently finish among the leaders of the cruising division. While not a "YouTube boat" in the sense of high-volume production models, the 62 is often the vessel of choice for experienced sailors documenting technical circumnavigations, such as those seen on professional delivery or expert-led voyage channels.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Catana 62 requires a specialized survey focusing on performance-specific components.

• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the daggerboard trunks for any signs of stress cracking or wear in the delrin bearings. While the boards provide performance, they are subject to significant lateral loads.
• Carbon-Infusion Integrity: Ensure a thermal imaging or moisture meter scan of the hull and deck is performed to verify the integrity of the carbon-infused laminate, specifically around the chainplates and crossbeam attachments.
• Rigging Tension: Given the 62’s ability to generate high speeds, the standing rigging (often Kevlar or high-grade stainless) undergoes more stress than a typical cruising cat. Most riggers recommend a full replacement every 8 to 10 years regardless of appearance.
• Hydraulic Systems: Some 62s are equipped with hydraulic mainsheet rams or winches. Check for seal leaks and ensure the hydraulic fluid has been serviced to prevent pump failure.
• Outboard Helm Exposure: Inspect the helm station electronics for salt corrosion, as these stations are highly exposed to spray during ocean passages.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Catana 62 typically find support through the Catana Owners Association, a global network that provides technical archives and organized rallies. For technical drawings and original build specifications, the Catana Group maintains a repository for its legacy and flagship models. Additionally, many owners engage with the "Multihull Solutions" network for regional support and specialized maintenance advice tailored to the Barreau-designed hulls.

The Verdict

The Catana 62 is an uncompromising machine built for the sailor who refuses to choose between a 200-mile day and a comfortable evening at anchor.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance due to deep daggerboards.
• High-quality carbon-reinforced construction reduces weight and increases structural rigidity.
• Excellent bridge deck clearance minimizes slamming in rough seas.
• Sophisticated interior finishes that do not compromise the vessel’s speed.

Cons:

• Exposed outboard helm stations offer little protection in inclement weather.
• Increased draft with boards down requires constant attention in shallow waters.
• Higher maintenance costs associated with complex systems and performance rigging.