Catana 67 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The hallmark of the Catana 67’s performance is its use of high-aspect-ratio retractable daggerboards. This feature, a signature of the Barreau-Neuman design team, allows the 67 to achieve upwind angles as narrow as 30 to 35 degrees—territory usually reserved for performance monohulls—while significantly reducing drag when reaching or running. With the boards down, the boat tracks with remarkable precision; with boards up, it can safely "slide" down the face of large breaking waves in survival conditions, a critical safety factor for circumnavigators.

The handling experience is defined by the outboard helm stations located at the aft-most corners of each hull. This configuration provides the helmsman with an unobstructed view of the sails and the sea ahead, though it sacrifices the protection found in mid-cockpit or flybridge designs. In sea trials and owner reports, the 67 has demonstrated the ability to maintain double-digit speeds in moderate breezes, often exceeding 15 knots under gennaker in 20 knots of true wind. The boat’s construction utilizes carbon-fiber infusion and Twaron (aramid fiber) to maintain a stiff, lightweight structure, which is reflected in a favorable Sail Area/Displacement ratio that makes it responsive even in light air.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catana 67 is typically arranged in an "Owner’s Version" configuration, where the entire starboard hull is dedicated to a master suite featuring a walk-in closet, extensive storage, and a large head with a separate shower. The port hull generally houses two or three guest cabins, each with ensuite facilities. Some units built on the same 65/67-foot hull mold were configured for luxury charter, utilizing a symmetrical four- or five-cabin layout.

Materials found aboard are consistent with "semi-custom" expectations, featuring foam-cored cabinetry to save weight without compromising aesthetic appeal. The main saloon is a "loft-style" space, seamlessly integrated with the cockpit through large sliding glass doors. A key variation in this model range is the evolution of the galley; later hull iterations often moved toward the "galley-up" design favored by modern cruisers, while earlier versions sometimes maintained the traditional "galley-down" setup to maximize saloon seating.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Catana 67 should focus their due diligence on the following high-signal areas identified through technical forum data and long-term owner reports:

• Daggerboard Trunks: Because the 67 is a performance boat, the daggerboard trunks are subject to significant lateral loads. Inspect the trunk seals and the internal bearing surfaces for wear or stress cracking, which can lead to leaks if not properly maintained.
• Carbon-Infused Structure: While the infusion process is technically superior, any aftermarket modifications (e.g., adding heavy davits or solar arches) should be inspected for proper reinforcement. Improperly mounted hardware can compromise the integrity of the foam-core sandwich.
• Hydraulic Systems: Larger Catana models often utilize extensive hydraulics for sail handling and winches. Check for fluid leaks at the manifold and the age of the high-pressure hoses, as these systems are critical for short-handed operation of the massive 130m² mainsail.
• Weight Management: The Catana 67 is sensitive to overloading. Buyers should check the inventory for excessive heavy equipment added by previous owners, as exceeding the design displacement significantly degrades the "foil effect" and upwind performance.

Community & Resources

Owners and researchers of this specific model typically find technical support through the Catana Owners Group, a well-established international association that maintains an archive of shipyard-specific manuals and maintenance wikis. While the model is no longer in active production, technical inquiries are often directed toward the Catana Group’s service center in France, which remains the primary source for original build specifications and structural drawings.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance due to retractable daggerboards.
• Lightweight, carbon-reinforced construction ensures high speeds in light air.
• Outboard helms provide a visceral, "true" sailing experience.
• Spacious, custom-level interior finish with high-quality woodwork.

Cons:

• The outboard helms offer limited protection from rain and spray.
• Deep draft with boards down (nearly 3.5 meters) requires active management.
• Maintenance of complex systems (daggerboards/hydraulics) is higher than standard cruising cats.