Catana 90 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing dynamics of the Catana 90 are defined by its remarkable power-to-weight ratio, a feat rarely achieved in vessels of this displacement. At 90 feet, most catamarans become sluggish "floating apartments," but the 90 utilizes curved daggerboards and a high-clearance bridge deck to maintain the "sword-like" piercing capability inherent in its namesake. According to technical overviews by the naval architect, the hull was optimized for sustained speeds in the high teens and low twenties, even in moderate sea states.

Handling such a vessel requires sophisticated systems. The boat features a towering carbon fiber mast and an automated sail-handling system that allows a relatively small crew to manage its massive square-top mainsail. The steering remains remarkably tactile for a boat of this size; Catana’s trademark aft-mounted steering stations provide the helmsman with a direct view of the sails and the sea, though on a 90-foot platform, these are often supplemented by a central flybridge or interior navigation station for long-passage comfort. The inclusion of deep daggerboards allows the 90 to point significantly higher than its fixed-keel competitors, reducing the leeway typically associated with large cruising multihulls.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catana 90 is a showcase of weight-sensitive luxury. To maintain performance, the shipyard utilized honeycomb-cored cabinetry and lightweight composite structures finished with high-end veneers and Alcantara. Because this was a custom commission, the layout was designed specifically for an owner transitioning from the Catana 582, focusing on a sprawling master suite and expansive communal areas.

The main salon provides panoramic views through vertical windows, a design choice that minimizes heat soak while maximizing structural integrity. In the primary configuration found on the hull Capi II, the galley is situated to provide professional-grade service for both the interior dining area and the massive aft cockpit. The "Custom" nature of the 90 means that while it shares DNA with the smaller Catana 70, the volume is exponentially greater, allowing for dedicated crew quarters, a separate laundry room, and a professional-grade engine room. Variations of this hull were discussed for potential 92-foot iterations, though the 90 remains the definitive benchmark for this era of the shipyard's bespoke production.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Catana 90 gained significant attention in the yachting press upon its delivery, specifically for its role as the flagship for a seasoned circumnavigator. The vessel, named Capi II, became a symbol of the "no-compromise" cruiser. It has been featured in technical retrospectives by the Catana Group as a demonstration of their ability to scale up the performance-multihull concept to superyacht proportions. The boat's journey and technical specifications were highlighted as a pinnacle of French naval engineering during the late 2000s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners or surveyors of a vessel of this complexity must focus on the specialized systems inherent to a custom carbon-reinforced build.

• Hydraulic and Electronic Systems: The Catana 90 relies heavily on hydraulic rams for sail trimming and daggerboard management. A thorough audit of the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and hydraulic seals is essential, as these components are often custom-programmed for this specific hull.
• Carbon Rigging Inspection: Given the age of the original build (circa 2008), the standing rigging—typically EC6 or similar carbon fiber stays—requires ultra-sonic testing or replacement to ensure structural integrity for blue-water passages.
• Core Integrity: While the carbon-infusion process is robust, a vessel of this size experiences massive torsional loads. A moisture and delamination survey of the bridge deck and hull-to-deck joints is standard procedure for any pre-owned performance catamaran of this vintage.
• Engine and Generator Service: Large custom yachts often suffer from under-use or over-idling. Detailed service logs for the high-horsepower twin diesels and dual generators are a prerequisite for purchase.

Community & Resources

As a custom flagship, the Catana 90 does not have a dedicated "class association" like the smaller production models. However, it is supported by the broader technical expertise of the Catana Group and the "Catana Owners Group," an active community where owners of larger models share technical insights regarding Barreau designs and performance optimization. Technical documentation for the 90 is generally held within the shipyard’s archives in Canet-en-Roussillon, France.

The Verdict

The Catana 90 is a rare masterpiece for the sailor who refuses to choose between the speed of a racing catamaran and the opulence of a luxury yacht. It is a vessel designed for the 1%, specifically those who intend to actually sail their yachts across oceans rather than hop between Mediterranean marinas.

Pros:

• Exceptional Velocity: Capable of speeds that outpace almost any other yacht in its luxury class.
• Build Quality: Advanced carbon-infusion construction provides a stiff, safe, and durable platform.
• Versatility: Shallow draft (with boards up) allows access to anchorages forbidden to monohull superyachts.

Cons:

• Complexity: Requires a professional crew to maintain and operate its sophisticated systems.
• Scarcity: With only one primary hull in existence, finding one on the brokerage market is an exceedingly rare event.
• Operating Costs: Maintenance for a custom 90-foot carbon vessel is significantly higher than for standard production multihulls.