Background: A Young Brand with Catana DNA

BALI is a comparatively young brand. The Catana Group marks the starting point with the launch of the first BALI catamaran in September 2014 (BALI 4.5; shortly followed by the 4.3). At the same time, the know-how draws on a longer multihull history: CATANA traces its origins to 1984 in Cogolin, founded with the ambition to build fast, seaworthy catamarans.

BALI can be understood as the “cruising/lifestyle” interpretation of Catana’s multihull expertise: less about niche performance sailing, more about space, everyday usability and charter suitability. That focus makes the concept attractive to crews who want to do more than just sail—who want to live aboard, at anchor as much as in harbour.

Typical BALI Design Features: How to Spot a BALI Catamaran

1) The “BALI Door”: Saloon and Cockpit Become One

The BALI Door is presented as a key idea: it opens the entire saloon to the aft cockpit, creating the continuous Open Space feel. Many reviews highlight this effect as a core differentiator—more “loft-like” than traditional, because the boundary between inside and outside largely disappears.

2) A Solid Foredeck with a Forward Cockpit

Another hallmark is the rigid, fully decked foredeck with a sheltered lounge and sun area. The concept is positioned not only as a comfort feature, but also as a contribution to structural stiffness, seaworthiness and safe movement on deck. For charter and family crews, the forward cockpit is often a favourite place to spend time: protected, social and ideal for long evenings at anchor.

3) “Rooftop on the Sea”: Flybridge Living (Almost Always)

BALI communicates that—apart from the Catsmart—all models feature a flybridge. Marketed as a “Rooftop on the sea”, it typically combines lounging space with excellent visibility for helming. In practical terms: more usable square metres, better sightlines, and an easy, relaxed steering environment.

4) Crew-Friendly Handling: Often with a Self-Tacking Jib (Model/Layout Dependent)

On models such as the Catspace, the Open Space idea (door, wide openings, liveable layout) is often mentioned alongside a self-tacking jib—a clear nod to straightforward manoeuvres with a small crew. In real-life cruising this usually means easier tacks, less deck choreography, and more time for relaxed sailing.

Sailing Characteristics: How Does a BALI Sail?

In general, BALI catamarans are designed for comfortable, easy cruising: stable, highly liveable, and with handling that suits families and charter crews. At the same time, many test reports underline structural solidity (stiffness, fewer creaks) as an important quality point—especially relevant on boats that feature large open areas and wide openings.

Depending on model and setup, reviews also note solid performance in typical holiday conditions, with the emphasis that the boat “just works” and moves through the water in a relaxed, predictable way—rather than prioritising maximum pointing ability upwind at all costs. That aligns with the brand’s focus: openness, space and on-board life as a central part of the experience.

Current Models in Focus: The BALI Range

On the official model pages, the core sailing catamarans typically include the following (note: model ranges can change over time; older BALI models may be very present on the charter and pre-owned markets):

• BALI CATSMART – compact, Open Space in the entry class
• BALI CATSPACE – 40-foot class, often seen as a “sweet spot” for charter and private owners
• BALI 4.2 / 4.4 / 4.6 – the classic, widely established Open Space mid-range
• BALI 5.2 (New) – modular layouts, higher crew capacity depending on version
• BALI 5.8 – flagship size with maximum volume and “totally open living spaces”

FAQ

What defines BALI Catamarans?

BALI is defined by its Open Space concept: the BALI Door (fully opening the saloon to the cockpit), very open layouts, and a rigid foredeck with a forward lounge/cockpit.

When did BALI Catamarans begin?

The Catana Group dates the start of the brand to the first launch in September 2014.

Who is behind BALI Catamarans?

BALI is a brand of the Catana Group and draws on its multihull experience, which stems from the CATANA history since 1984.

What is the “BALI Door”?

The BALI Door is a central Open Space feature: a large aft opening that connects the interior and cockpit into one shared living area.

How does a BALI catamaran sail?

Typically, the focus is on comfort-oriented, stable cruising with generous living space. Test reports often highlight solid structure and stiffness as a plus for the open design approach.

Who is a BALI best suited for?

Crews who prioritise space, openness and sociable on-board living: families, groups of friends and charter crews—as well as owners who enjoy long stays at anchor and want a catamaran layout that feels “loft-like” on the water.