Comar C-CAT 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The C-CAT 37 is a "sailor’s catamaran," designed to provide the tactile feedback and speed typically reserved for performance monohulls. According to technical assessments by C-Catamarans, the boat is capable of double-digit speeds in moderate breezes and can maintain an average of 12 to 13 knots in ideal conditions. Its performance is largely dictated by its appendage choice; the shipyard offered the model with either fixed fin keels for simplicity or pivoting daggerboards for superior upwind pointing and reduced drag.

The daggerboard version is particularly favored by performance enthusiasts, as it allows the boat to minimize leeway—a common struggle for smaller catamarans in heavy air. Handling is noted for being sensitive and responsive, thanks to a high aspect ratio rig and a centralized weight distribution strategy that places the engines, tanks, and even the life raft near the center of the boat to reduce pitching. However, because the boat is so light, it can feel "skittish" in gusty conditions or during tight marina maneuvers where windage on the hulls can overpower the limited underwater grip of the fixed-keel variants.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the C-CAT 37 reflects a "Top of the Range" Italian finish, utilizing light oak and faux leather to create a bright, airy atmosphere. The transition between the cockpit and the saloon is seamless, separated by a large sliding door that essentially doubles the living area when opened. The galley is strategically positioned to serve both the interior dinette and the exterior cockpit, emphasizing the boat's Mediterranean cruising DNA.

Comar offered three primary configurations:

• Owner’s Version: Features two symmetrical hulls, each with a large double berth aft and an expansive head compartment forward.
• Club Version (Best Seller): Dedicates the starboard hull to the owner while the port hull contains two guest cabins with a shared central head.
• Charter Version: A four-cabin, two-head layout designed for maximum occupancy.

A notable sibling is the C-CAT 38, which was introduced as a modernized evolution of the 37. The 38 features a hull extension of approximately 73 centimeters, providing additional buoyancy in the stern and a slightly higher theoretical hull speed.

Popular Mentions & Media

The C-CAT 37 has gained significant attention in the European yachting press as a refined alternative to mass-produced French catamarans. It was prominently featured and tested by Multihulls World, where it was praised for its "Italian recipe" of combining style with genuine sailing sensations. The model has also been a frequent nominee for various "Multihull of the Year" awards since its debut in 2015.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Leeway on Fixed Keel Models: Potential buyers should be aware that the fixed-keel version has been reported to experience significant leeway (up to 20 degrees) when beating against high winds and heavy seas.
• Daggerboard Trunk Maintenance: On daggerboard-equipped models, inspect the trunks for signs of stress or wear on the internal bearings. Impact damage to the boards can lead to water ingress if the structural "crash boxes" around the trunks have been compromised.
• Electrical Systems: Early production units occasionally suffered from inverter failures or undersized house banks for extended blue-water cruising. Verify that the battery capacity and charging systems are sufficient for your intended usage.
• Lightweight Sensitivity: Because the boat is built for performance, it does not tolerate being "overloaded" with heavy cruising gear. Check for gelcoat stress cracks near the chainplates or crossbeam joins if the boat has been raced or heavily loaded.
• Tankage Limits: The standard fuel (200L) and water (300L) capacities are relatively modest for long-range voyaging. Buyers planning for transoceanic passages may need to consider installing a watermaker and additional fuel bladders.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the builder, C-Catamarans (Comar Yachts), based in Fiumicino, Italy. While there is no large independent owner's association, the brand maintains a close relationship with its owners through regional European distributors and organized rallies. Technical documentation is often available through the manufacturer's official portals.

The Verdict

The C-CAT 37 is an exceptional choice for the experienced sailor who values performance and "feel" but is unwilling to sacrifice the stability and space of a multihull.

Pros:

• Exceptional power-to-weight ratio and light-air performance.
• High-quality Italian joinery and contemporary interior design.
• Excellent bridge deck clearance, which minimizes wave slamming.
• Versatile layout options including the popular "Club" version.

Cons:

• High windage and low weight make it challenging to handle in gusty marinas.
• Standard tankage is small for serious blue-water cruising.
• Fixed-keel versions lack the upwind efficiency of the daggerboard models.
• Limited availability on the secondary market outside of Europe.