06/2007 –

Optimising the Catana range

At the 2006 Paris boat show, Catana presented its first new model since it was taken over by Poncin in 2003. The Catana 50 was unveiled by the group’s Chairman, Olivier Poncin, who announced that “there is a potential market for a more sophisticated, more customised model comprising all the fundamental characteristics of the range, but in a more optimised format”. Thanks to its hi-tech construction, original architecture and high quality equipment, this 50’ model comprises new and improved versions of all the concepts on which Catana has built its reputation.

Innovation and technology

The first challenge for architect Christophe Barreau was the size of the Catana 50. He was asked to design a sailing yacht with an overall length of 16 metres but no more than 8 metres (7.90 m) wide, to ensure owners still have access to marinas. Thanks to the stepped hulls, the Catana 50 remains a very comfortable model despite these constraints. By keeping the weight down (16.5 tons) and installing powerful rigging (carbon mast and Harken hardware) and hydrodynamic floaters, the performance has not suffered either, and the torpedo-shaped hulls are tilted outwards in an innovative new design. They are made from Twaron aramid fibre, a material that the manufacturer has been using since 1997. Another innovation for a mass produced catamaran is the integral forward beam between the two floaters, which reinforces the stiffness of the hull. All of these new features from Catana make for a stable, safe and fast 50-foot catamaran!

Comfort and performances

The helm stations are located on either side of the Catana 50, with seats for the skipper and passengers. This leaves the cockpit free, making it easier to move around on board and during manoeuvres. The overhead bimini does not obstruct visibility, and is fitted with solar panels and a sundeck. This innovative architecture is accompanied by Linéa Concept’s interior design, a combination of contemporary and classical atmospheres. The saloon area next to the large navigation table sits 8 people and offers a panoramic view, and the modern galley is equipped with a vitroceramic gas hob. To protect the environment, the Catana 50 comes equipped with 5 tanks for grey water and sewage, as well as a waste disposal unit in the sink for food waste. In terms of autonomy, the Catana 50 is fitted with two 75 HP engines, a generator and a watermaker (240 l/h). This model offers all the comfort and performance that Catana is renowned for, and marks the launch of a new range, to be extended by a 65-foot model by the end of 2007.

More information at http://www.catana.net

-NG-