Catana 85 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Catana 85 is characterized by a "classic" performance catamaran profile: long, slender hulls with a 10:1 length-to-beam ratio and a complete absence of a flybridge to maintain a low center of gravity. This design philosophy focuses on reducing drag and increasing "sea-kindliness" in rough conditions. According to technical descriptions found on itBoat, the hull utilizes advanced construction materials including carbon fiber and vacuum infusion to ensure rigidity and weight savings.

Handled from dual outboard steering stations—a signature of the Catana brand—the boat provides the helmsman with direct visibility of the sails and hulls while maintaining a physical connection to the water. The inclusion of high-aspect daggerboards allows the 85 to point higher than almost any other catamaran in its class, with reports indicating it can beat into the wind at an apparent wind angle (AWA) of 25 degrees with minimal leeway. The sail plan is substantial, featuring a 214m² mainsail and a 260m² gennaker, enabling the vessel to maintain high average speeds even in light-air conditions where heavier cruisers would be forced to motor.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catana 85 is a significant departure from smaller siblings like the Catana 47 or the more modern Ocean Class. Given its 85-foot length and 38-foot beam, the living space is expansive and modular. The typical configuration features four guest en-suite cabins and separate crew quarters for two to four members.

Materials used in the interior reflect its super-yacht status, often utilizing foam-cored cabinetry to save weight while maintaining the appearance of high-end wood finishes. The salon and galley are generally located on the main bridge deck, offering panoramic views and a seamless transition to the cockpit. Because these boats were semi-custom, variations exist in the layout; for example, some owners opted for a dedicated office or "workshop" cabin to support long-term autonomous cruising.

Popular Mentions & Media

The most notable vessel of this model is the Taino, which served as the flagship for the Catana Group for several years. After its construction in 2010, the boat underwent a significant factory refit in 2019 and has been featured in various marine editorials as an example of a "no-compromise" performance yacht. While many large catamarans are relegated to the charter fleet, the 85 has maintained a reputation as a private owner's vessel, often cited in performance multihull discussions as a predecessor to the contemporary ultra-luxury catamarans from brands like Gunboat or Sunreef.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers and researchers should focus on the following high-signal technical areas:

• Daggerboard Trunk Integrity: Due to the extreme loads placed on the daggerboards at high speeds, the trunks and lifting mechanisms require rigorous inspection for stress cracking or delamination.
• Hydraulic System Complexity: The 85 relies heavily on hydraulic systems for winch controls and daggerboard management. These systems are often "duplicated" for safety, but the complexity of the plumbing and control valves requires a specialized marine technician for maintenance.
• Carbon Fiber Aging: While the use of carbon fiber provides strength, the 85 is an older composite structure. A comprehensive ultrasonic hull survey is essential to check for any core-to-skin delamination or moisture ingress in the foam core.
• Rigging Loads: The standing rigging on a boat of this scale and performance potential is under immense tension. Buyers should verify the service life of the shrouds and stays, as replacement costs for a mast of this height are substantial.

Community & Resources

Due to the rarity of the model, there is no dedicated "85-only" association. However, owners and technical data are often shared through the Catana Owners Group, which serves as a repository for technical manuals and refit advice for all Barreau and Vaton-designed Catanas. Technical documentation and historical specs are occasionally managed by the Catana Group directly, as they maintain records for their custom "flagship" builds.

The Verdict

The Catana 85 is a rare specimen that offers the living space of a villa with the heart of a racing catamaran. It is a vessel built for those who prioritize the "art of sailing" over pure interior volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance for a vessel of its size.
• Carbon-fiber construction provides high structural rigidity.
• The outboard helms offer superior visibility and sailing "feel."
• Massive bridge-deck clearance reduces hull slamming in heavy seas.

Cons:

• Extreme technical complexity requires professional crew or highly skilled owners.
• Limited availability on the second-hand market.
• Higher maintenance costs compared to mass-production fiberglass catamarans.