Catana 65 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Catana 65's performance is its use of deep, curved daggerboards. Unlike the fixed keels found on most cruising catamarans, these boards allow the 65 to point remarkably high—often within 30 to 35 degrees of apparent wind—while significantly reducing wetted surface area when retracted for downwind sailing. This functionality also grants the boat a shallow draft, enabling access to protected anchorages that are off-limits to deep-keeled monohulls.

Handling is dictated by Catana’s signature twin aft steering stations. Positioned at the very rear of each hull, these helms offer the helmsman an unobstructed view of the sail plan and a direct, mechanical feel of the rudders, which is often lost in cockpit-forward designs. However, this layout requires the crew to be exposed to the elements during maneuvers, a trade-off made in the name of "feeling" the boat’s trim. With a high sail area-to-displacement ratio, the 65 is capable of exceeding 20 knots in optimal conditions, yet it remains remarkably stable due to its wide beam and high bridge deck clearance, which minimizes "slamming" in head seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

As a semi-custom vessel, the interior of the Catana 65 was often tailored to the original owner’s specific requirements, though two primary configurations predominated: the "Owner’s Version" and the "Charter/Family Version." In the Owner’s configuration, the entire starboard hull is dedicated to a massive master suite, featuring a walk-in shower, a desk/office area, and extensive storage. The port hull typically houses two or three guest cabins, each with en-suite heads.

The bridgedeck salon is characterized by a "level-living" concept, where the galley, navigation station, and dining area flow seamlessly into the cockpit. Materials typically include light-colored wood veneers—often maple or cherry—over foam-cored panels to save weight. The 65’s interior is notably more refined than earlier Catana models, featuring panoramic windows that provide nearly 360-degree visibility from the galley. Sibling models, such as the later Catana 62, utilized a nearly identical hull mold but updated the interior aesthetics and window lines to reflect more modern design trends.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Catana 65 has frequently been the vessel of choice for high-latitude explorers and high-speed circumnavigators. It received significant attention in the yachting press upon its debut for its ability to maintain high average speeds in light air, a common weakness in heavier multihulls. While individual hulls like S/Y Selika have made names for themselves in the international brokerage and regatta circuits, the model is most often cited in technical discussions regarding the "sweet spot" of catamaran sizing—large enough for ultimate stability and luxury, yet small enough to be handled by a capable couple.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Catana 65 should focus their survey on several high-load areas specific to performance multihulls.

1. Daggerboard Trunks and Bearings: The daggerboards are under immense lateral pressure. Check for stress cracking around the trunks and ensure the lifting/lowering mechanisms (often hydraulic or high-purchase line systems) operate smoothly without excessive play in the bearings.
2. Hydraulic Systems: Many 65s were equipped with complex hydraulic systems for winches and furlers. These systems require meticulous maintenance; look for signs of "milky" oil (indicating water contamination) or slow leaks at the manifolds.
3. Core Integrity: While the vacuum-infusion process is high-quality, any aftermarket through-hull installations or deck hardware additions must be checked for proper sealing to ensure the foam core has not been compromised by moisture.
4. Rigging Loads: Given the high righting moment of a 65-foot catamaran, the standing rigging (often Kevlar or high-grade rod) faces extreme tension. If the boat has been raced or pushed hard, a full NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) of the chainplates and mast step is recommended.

Community & Resources

Owners and enthusiasts of the Catana 65 are supported by a dedicated network of performance sailors. The Catana Owners Association remains the primary repository for technical manuals, refit logs, and sailing polars specific to the 60+ foot range. While many technical discussions occur in private forums, the shipyard in Canet-en-Roussillon maintains an archive of original build specifications for these semi-custom yachts, which is invaluable for identifying the original composite schedules and wiring diagrams during a refit.

The Verdict

The Catana 65 is a "sailor’s catamaran" that demands active participation but rewards it with exhilarating speed and genuine blue-water security.

Pros:

• True Performance: Daggerboards and carbon reinforcement allow for monohull-like pointing and high-speed passage making.
• Redundancy: Oversized systems and robust construction make it a premier choice for remote exploration.
• Shallow Draft: Retractable boards allow for a draft of less than 4 feet, opening up shallow Caribbean and Bahamian cruising grounds.

Cons:

• Helm Exposure: Aft steering stations leave the helmsman vulnerable to sun and spray compared to flybridge or bulkhead designs.
• Operational Complexity: The sheer size and power of the rig mean that mistakes can be expensive; this is not a boat for the novice sailor.
• Maintenance Costs: Advanced materials (Carbon/Twaron) and complex systems command a premium for both parts and specialized labor.