bali 4.3 catamaran review

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If you are looking for a cat that delivers the maximum useable living space per square metre, then the Bali range is streets ahead of everyone else. The 4.3 sits one rung up from entry level boats like the Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 and the Lagoon. Read our Lagoon 40 review for a deeper insight into these entry level boats

Photo credit: bali-catamarans.com

– Forward cockpit lounge? ✓ – Flybridge? ✓ – Open aft cockpit/salon? ✓ – Large cabins with island berths? ✓ – American style fridge? ✓ – Protection in bad weather ✓

The bottom line is, if you are shopping for a performance catamaran with slender hulls and less living space, don´t show your other half this range of boats, as you won´t get that cat back in the bag. They have taken the charter market by storm.

• All that space! The main deck layout is really innovative. The huge “garage door” swings up to the roof of the cabin either electrically or manually which gives you a huge open space for entertaining. That gives you enough room for a full sized fridge and freezer, dining area, lounger area, nav station and large galley. The lot, in other words.
• If the weather turns, or you feel like some privacy, just swing the big door down and you have a fully enclosed saloon. Very neat!
• The foredeck is solid, and while this does have drawbacks (see below), it gives you even more lounging space in a forward cockpit you normally expect to see on a larger Leopard, and plenty of working space for your light wind sails. It also results in a very stiff structure and means you have plenty of buoyancy forward without the slamming you would experience on a Prout.
• The forward part of the saloon is all windows: the big central window opens right up so you can pass cool drinks out to anyone lounging in the forward cockpit area.
• We like that forward facing nav station on the starboard side.
• The flybridge helm looks like it would be exposed in bad weather. The visibility is excellent, of course, and you would be helming from the nav station below in really bad weather, but remember- you have to reef and manage the ropes from up there.
• The flipside of having all of that space down in the saloon is that the boom is very high. It´s very hard to access and it also means that the centre of effort of the mainsail is high.
• I have had many conversations about that solid foredeck. It has been sculpted like a ski to dissipate wave energy, but even so, there is more weight up front and that means more bouncing around in heavy seas. I like nets, personally, and it would worry me in a heavy sea. Having said that, Prouts did this for years and they are very seaworthy boats.
• The huge glass panels upfront are superb at anchor, but they would worry me in a storm offshore.
• Lack of hand holds moving up to the foredeck.

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All lines come aft to the flybridge helm. The mast is stepped back like a Prout (you´ll see the support pole in the saloon), and so the Bali 4.1 is powered with a relatively small mainsail and a large, self-tacking jib. That flybridge means a high boom: the jib is where a lot of the pull comes from when you are under way.

It´s a short few steps up either side from the aft cockpit area, to the  flybridge. As well as the  helm seat, , there´s a sun lounge and some solar to keep your batteries charged.

Bali builds the boat in 3 pieces, in a PVC foam sandwich and polyester resin, covered with an anti-osmosis gelcoat. The decks are built with plywood and monolithic resin and the bulkheads are in glued or laminated plywood.

Living Area

Well, this is where the Bali excceds all expectations isn´t it? I can´t think of another cat that gets close to this amount of space, certainly not in the performance category compared to the Outremer 45 , for example, and not even in the cruising category. Maybe the Leopards come close with their forward cockpit that is accessible through the saloon. And the Nautitechs with their Open concept, but Bali has really gone “all in” here.

It reminds me of a McConaghy catamaran but those boats are in an entirely different price bracket. But the basic feeling is the same – that of being in a spacious apartment.

Bali call this the “Loft” concept. The galley is forward, with a full size fridge and microwave to starboard and aft. There´s working space everywhere, and it looks like a great layout for entertaining.

The visibility is excellent all around with big windows that fully open to the sides and forward. You are not going to have a problem with ventilation at anchor on this boat. And down below, the accomodation is spacious and light. They have used that old Catana trick of flaring the hulls so that you get decent living space and acceptable performance underway. The hulls flare to chines just above the waterline, just like a Catana: you can definitely spot the family DNA there.

She´s certainly at the top of her class when it comes to space down below. I wouldn´t call the finish high end, but it is comparable to the competitors (principally Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot). Choose between the 3 cabin Owners version or the 4 cabin charter.

With a SA/D (Sail Area to Displacement) of around 19, she´s in the same bracket as a Lagoon, although I think she would accelerate faster with those sculpted hulls and would get going quicker in a light breeze as long as you don´t overload her with kit. You´ll be tacking through 100 degrees upwind and cruising along at 6-7 knots in most conditions. It´s worth having gennaker in your locker to get the best out of the boat!

The Bali 4.3 comes with twin 40HP (upgradable to 50s) engines aft which should push you along at 8 knots at 2500 RPM. Or alternate the engines and motor at 6. She´s easy to manouevre in the marina.

The Bali 4.3 is a really innovative design and it is easy to see how this catamaran has done so well in the charter market. She offers an unbeatable platform for enjoying a week or 2 of coastal sailing around the Med or the Carribbean Islands. For longer passages, I am not so sure. I would be drifting back towards Catana in that scenario. I have no problem with the solid foredeck (Prout proved this concept many times over), but I would worry about the height of that boom and the helm position.

How much is a Bali 4.3? As always, this will depend the the options you go for, but a guide sail away price would be around €450k, which is in line with the main competition in this size.

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Bali 4.3 Review – 2017 “Sinatra”, DYC, Australia

• Post author: Nils
• Post published: June 10, 2019
• Post category: Bare Boat Ownership / catamaran / sailing / yacht ownership
• Post comments: 3 Comments

Another weeks worth of ‘sailing’ as part of our Dream Easy charter allowance with Dream Yacht Charter , this time on a Bali 4.3.

Sinatra, one more musically inspired name in the DYC fleet here at the Airlie Beach base, was launched in 2017.

It has the standard charter fit-out with four main cabins, each with ensuite and two forepeak spaces which are good for storage of suitcases etc.

Effective air conditioning, a big generator and a watermaker, which was installed but not connected, nor advertised as being there for that matter.

But most of all, there was space. A lot of space. The huge barn door at the back of the saloon opens all the way up in its unique, Bali way and, el presto, saloon, forward-facing galley and rear deck are one, open outdoor space.

Then there is even more space out front and up top.

This cat has more space than my Hong Kong flat, which, for a Hong Kong flat, already has a lot of space.

The good thing about the Bali is you can take it to all the beautiful destinations around the world and enjoy a great outdoor lifestyle.

My flat in Hong Kong will, by nature of being part of a giant high-rise building, stay just where it is, in Hong Kong.

My flat in Hong Kong and the Bali 4.3 do have somthing in common though. Neither sail too well. As a matter of fact, my flat doesn’t sail at all, although it moves a little from side to side in really strong winds. Pointing the Bali upwind was a bit the same, it just moved from side to side.

That’s not to say the Bali 4.3 didn’t sail at all. Quite the opposite. Downwind, in 25kts, as long as you didn’t sail directly downwind, it actually moved forward without any assistance from its engines.

But then, even the palmtree we passed floating in the water moved downwind…. until the tide changed. Then nothing moved anymore, but that was just bad planning on my behalf.

They did install a particularly tiny looking mainsail very high up the mast.

If you look at the cat side on, there appears to be more overhead clearance between the boom and the waterline than underneath Sydney Harbour Bridge.

If you wanted to get to the sail, you had to climb up the mast and traverse on the sail to get to where you wanted to be… unless you dismantle the bimini structure to lower the topping lift, which still doesn’t get you to where mast meets boom and all the important bits are.

There is no topcover on the sailbag to zip up and protect the sail from the elements when not in use. Even if there was, you couldn’t get to it from the coachroof.

Finally, they added a big, self-tacking  jib, with carts really close to the centre of the yacht, which didn’t help very much when sailing deep downwind.

What was I doing wrong here? I just couldn’t work out how to trim the sails to make this 4.3 sail in any other direction but downwind!

Maybe I need the good people from Catana to come and give me some lessons before I try sailing one of these cats again.

What the good people at Catana did get right though was the ability to compensate for lack of sailing ability with some very good engine performance.

This cat motored and it motored well. It didn’t have any davids to haul up the giant dinghy we had to tow all across the ocean.

Nor did it have folding props, so the poor folks at Catana did have all the odds stacked against them when it came to sailing performances in this case.

The Volvos, in contrast, took us around the Whitsundays very well. Last year I sailed a very similar route with very similar winds. That’s the good thing about this area, the winds are fairly reliable. Then I used 35 ltrs of diesel, this time around I used 125 ltrs. And we weren’t in a rush.

It was a good thing that we motored so much because the giant domestic Samsung fridge with giant freezer and ice maker needed a lot of power. Power, which the few token solar panels had no chance of supplying. We did give the ice maker a worthy workout!

I have to remind myself that this blog wasn’t set up to review a boat’s performance. Let alone weigh into the deep controversy of which cat is best for what, production cat versus custom made etc.

But I love to sail, not to motor. If I can sail onto a mooring at the end of the day it was a successful day sailing. That’s why I bought a sailing boat, not a motor boat.

So the lack of sailing performance, whether due to the cat’s design or my inabilities on this particular model, were disappointing.

Having said all the above, we did have a great time. Sinatra was a great shape and the family loved it.

While the dingy, contrary to the Bali, was underpowerd for its size and load capability, it was, like the Bali, very spacious and in excellent condition. The yacht was clean, well maintained and everything worked.

The only problem we had was a ‘generator fault’light on the right hand engine above 2200RPM. We notified the base on VHF and just kept the RPM below said value as advised.

For all it’s worth, the sails and all related gear, including a total of two winches , were in perfect shape. Strangely enough, there was no windspeed / direction indicator on the flybridge.

Anchoring was a breeze and held very well in varying conditions. Not a single drift!

Pleasantly, there was no smell from the toilets at all, the hot water remained hot even until the next morning, the gas BBQ on the back could feed a small army and the underwater lights added a nice touch. As usual, raincoats were provided!

DYC staff at Airlie Beach were again very helpful and accommodating. The generator fault was already noted on the sheet.

Happy Easter.

This Post Has 3 Comments

Thank you Moamar Nardone for your invite to some sailing lessons in the Philippines. I will definitely take you up on those …

Hi, sounds great 😀 looking forward to join a catamaran trip with you 😊 greetings to all from Corfu. Hella

Hi Nils, great review, we enjoyed a lot reading it. You have a great sense of humor! Our experience is very similar with Bali 4.0 built in 2016.

Here is a report I published on FB:

Last week I had a first time experience on Bali 4.0 (2016), a 39’ catamaran, sailing along Corsica shoreline. It has 4 cabins and 2 heads, so for our team of 8 persons it was an exact fit. The cabins are spacious, with plenty of storage space. And the heads have separate shower cell, which is nice. Water tank capacity of 800 liters makes it possible a week passage without need to refill. The saloon is very spacious and pretending to be luxury, but there are many small things that are ok when you stay in a marine, but absolutely wrong for sailing at sea: • All the horizontal surfaces (table, kitchen working surface, etc.) don’t have a skirting, so your plates and glasses are free to fall on any wave. At the same time these horizontal surfaces have sharp corners. • The floor has several deep “channels” across the saloon, without any exiting path for water. So if you wash the floor, the water and dirt is trapped there, with no way to escape. • The boat batteries compartment is just under the saloon floor, without any protection from water to get into it, so washing the floor inevitably floods this compartment, again without water escape path (!) • The steering bridge doesn’t have any cover, so a captain shall withstand the sun and the rain. • The rig is terrible if you want to use sails and not just the engine: the self-tacking jib can’t be tuned, the mainsail halyard has a swivel running block, making the rope twist multiple times, so you just can’t take it to the mast top. All the ropes organization around just 2 winches is very inconvenient for sailing. • The spinlocks when open expose sharp spikes (for no reason!), and we had a crew member injured by accidentally stepping on it. • Don’t even try to go upwind – the best you can do is ~120 deg between tacks…

A general impression is that the boat was designed by one who never been sailing…

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Comparative review of catamarans Astrea 42, Lagoon 42, Bali 4.3

Catamarans are rightfully renowned for their spaciousness and comfort - offering pretty much double the footprint of monohulls of similar length. And that, as a rule, means more personal space, the possibility of privacy, and in general freedom of movement, almost like in your own villa.

In this comparative review, we take a look at three models of well-known catamarans in the 42-43 feet range.

Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 review

Let's start with the novelty of 2018  - 12.5 meter sailing catamaran  Astrea 42 by Fountaine Pajot ... It is a spacious, well thought-out yacht design with many features tailored for a comfortable life on a long cruise. For those who value personal harmony on board a yacht where the whole family lives 24/7,  Astrea 42  - the perfect ally: this is a perfect vessel, which is deservedly considered the most comfortable cruiser on the market.

Much of this is due to the well-integrated spaces, which are mainly centered around the helm station and upper decks, but also between her cockpit and saloon.  Steering station Astrea 42  located high above decks, and offset to starboard. This provides excellent sailing visibility - as well as an inspiring spatial imagination for maneuvering a 7.2 meter yacht in a crowded marina. A few steps up the stairs from the cockpit, and you get to the helm station.

For the experienced skipper, the location of the helm station embodies the raison d'être of this catamaran.  This area is the centerpiece of a carefully configured space that facilitates easy communication and full interaction with guests and crew. Moreover, the seat at the helm can accommodate up to three people, and next to it - at the midship and slightly higher level, there is a large sun deck on the roof of the wheelhouse. This is a very social space. This arrangement guarantees an overall dynamic with the participation of all guests on board. And when it is difficult to concentrate on steering, you can leave the boat on autopilot.

Moving towards the bow, you will find  standard trampoline  and another seating area with a spacious sun deck. This incredible theme of interaction continues in the cockpit, where a large sofa along the transom gives access to  B-B-Q  on the starboard side. Along with a large, L-shaped sofa around the table, a reinforced interior seat on the other side of the table, and a seat further to starboard, this  cockpit , created specifically for quality relaxation and the main gathering place for all guests in the fresh air. There is also  built-in refrigerator  under the gangway that leads to the helm station, so there is no need to return to the galley for drinks. Even the teak deck is so high quality and pleasant that you want to walk like home without shoes.  Cockpit  here is another key space that plays an important role in social life on board the yacht.

The sail controls are very practical and logical, you quickly get used to the sail plan.  The key point is that the helmsman cannot adjust the sails while at the helm. All sails end on the three nearest winches - with their accompanying spinlocks mounted on the deckhouse roof in front of the helm. Literally a step away, a passage separates the winches from the helm. The helmsman needs to move slightly forward to retract the sails, and this is easily accomplished by pressing the autopilot button on the large display.  Garmin ... Alternatively, you can also ask one of the sunbathers nearby on the sun deck to be helpful for a couple of seconds.

Many beginners think that a good configuration is when the helm is on the wheelhouse, right under the winches, but this is no longer a relevant solution. as it has negative sides, such as a spaghetti-rope-flooded helm station, which is the inevitable result of many ends ending in one place. If they lead to the wheel, chances are your wheel will resemble a bird's nest. Also, it is more convenient to work with a chartplotter here. Therefore, the good news is that the winches  Astrea 42  there are many end bags to prevent this kind of mess.

Geek-sheet shoulder strap,  Installed on the cockpit roof just aft of the helm station, it helps to bring the mainsail into optimal shape. And one of the best sailing options is the boom, which is at a relatively low level. With this extended deckhouse roof, it's easy to pack the mainsail into a bag. On most catamarans equipped with lazy jacks, you need to be a gymnast to set the sails. Perhaps such maneuvers are easy for young people, but with age, they definitely do not want to deal with it.

Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42

Astrea 42  also equipped with a bowsprit for  Code Zero and Gennaker  and the handling of these sails is also a bit unusual. Sheets on the starboard side pass through a turning block at the aft end of the starboard hull and through one of the winches. Likewise, the sheets on the port side pass through the turning block, but they are fed to a self-contained electric winch aft on the port side. Again, in order to adjust everything, you will need to use the autopilot in case you are driving the boat alone, but if you have an assistant, it is very easy.  In general, the Astrea 42 control system is tailored for the comfort of the skipper, that is, the catamaran is easy to control alone.

The cockpit overhang is large enough to accommodate four  solar panels ... They help keep batteries and many electrical systems running with solar energy. But one of the best design solutions  Astrea 42  considered its wide  bathing platform ... With the help of electronics, it descends smoothly and quietly and completely immerses in the water. Firstly, it simplifies all operations with a tuzik; secondly, she won the hearts of divers, lovers of all kinds of water recreation and kids who are continuously splashing in the water, jumping into the water from the platform, and quickly rising back; thirdly, for the older generation, this means that they do not need to climb down the dangerous, telescopic ladders usually installed on the transom of the catamaran; fourthly, loading and unloading provisions, personal belongings and boarding have become even easier. Better yet, the bathing platform doubles up to hold the brine.  This solution will eliminate the installation of the davit , which is present on all catamarans. This innovative platform  Fountaine pajot  - more accurate and functional design of familiar things, which simplifies life and daily processes.

On a cruise  inconspicuous transition between cockpit and saloon  discouraging, in a good way, thanks to a fully sliding aluminum and glass door and a sliding porthole running through the entire rear of the galley. This creates a lot of air and light between the two different areas, and with the galley located aft of the saloon, serving lunches and dinners is even faster and easier and cooking is more fun.

Attention to simple everyday details is the key to the hearts of cruisers.  For example, the clever addition of a sill board to the salon, designed to collect any residual water. Yacht owners will understand the enthusiasm associated with such a trifle. Panoramic views across  large interior windows , provide an abundance of natural light and accentuate the subtle shades of the decor.

Ahead, on the port side, is  navigation post  with seat integrated into the L-shaped sofa.  U-shaped galley  has a convenient layout - a three-burner stove, double sinks, two refrigerators and a freezer. There is  long hatch , which illuminates this island until darkness, and gives  view of the mast and sails ... But what's unusual is the oven. It sits at a comfortable height - a welcome change from the low-level ovens in many galleys, where you need to take a yoga pose to check the food. In general, the salon is very cozy and homely.

Astrea 42 is available in several configurations , including three- and four-cabin versions. In a three-cabin version  Maestro , the entire starboard hull is at the owner's disposal. In the version with four cabins, there are two cabins on the starboard side, in a mirror image of the left float plan. The owner's suite has a large double bed at the stern and a very spacious bathroom with a separate shower at the bow. They are separated by a wardrobe, which also functions as a study.

Astrea 42 interior

Light materials used in the decoration  - gray carpet and upholstery, white vinyl on the ceiling, light oak furniture - everything looks very stylish. And thanks to the huge windows, the cabins are flooded with natural light until sunset. The aft cabin on the port side has a double bed with a private bathroom. The bow cabin is almost identical, although its bathroom is slightly smaller.

As for the performance,  Astrea 42  originally designed and equipped with features that give it excellent seakeeping and maneuverability. A good set of sails optimizes performance, and reverse bows are designed to maximize the length of the waterline.  The steering wheel is very responsive in all conditions.

With two 40 hp engines running at around 2200-2300 rpm (cruising speed), the Astrea does an excellent job at a comfortable 7.5 knots. Push the throttle to 3000rpm and the boost is negligible - just over a knot (8.7 knots) - definitely not worth the increase in fuel consumption.

Astrea 42 is a place to live, to relax, to party with friends and long cruises with the family.  Interiors flow smoothly into exteriors to experience this feeling of living in nature in the truest sense of the word. No house by the sea will give you this feeling of unity with nature, mobility and autonomy. All spaces are designed for easy interaction of both the crew and your guests, but at the same time there are many places on the boat where you can retire. You don't have to compromise between space and speed - that's what it is.  a new generation of cruising yachts where you will find everything you expect from a high-end travel experience.

Lagoon 42 review

Further we will consider  Lagoon 42  - catamaran model of 2016, quite spacious and versatile, especially popular with charter companies. Compared to other catamarans of the shipyard,  42nd is lighter and more convenient to operate according to many yachtsmen. For the most part, this is due to the placement of the steering post on the left side, which is designed in such a way that everything is at arm's length.

Double, two-speed  Harken electric winches  play a significant role in this. All sheets pass through clamps to these winches, so switching between halyards, reefs, boom sheet and jib sheet is quick. Especially when you leave steering to autopilot.  Sail plan with mast shifted to the stern and automatic staysail  provide confident performance. On  Lagoon 42  also have  Zero Code ... Sheets are laid down to the aft cockpit where you will find  Harken hand winches  at both sides.

A staircase leads from the helm station to the large deck on the roof of the wheelhouse. Firstly, it makes it easier to pack the mainsail into the bag along the entire length of the boom. Secondly, the boom-sheet system is installed at the aft end of the deck, so there is plenty of scope for adjusting the sail shape, and the sheets lead to the helm station. Thirdly,  wheelhouse roof  provides additional space for sunbathing. A channel is installed along the edges of the deckhouse roof to drain rainwater directly into the water tanks. A smart enough decision.

Steering post  closes completely in bad weather, and the hardtop has a window above the helm with a view of the mast. Lack of an external helm station  Lagoon 42  is that, at the helm, you do not have a complete understanding of the dimensions of the catamaran. The port side is perfectly visible, but ahead,  the starboard side is mostly out of sight  and control, although the feed on both sides is clearly visible.

At the bottom  in cockpit  everything is arranged for the rest and entertainment of a large company. There is no shortage of sofas here, and the table is designed for outdoor dining for 6-8 guests. As with most catamarans,  cockpit and saloon are located on the same level so the space flows imperceptibly, especially when the large sliding door separating the two zones is fully open. And when you feel like chilling, just a few steps down to the large landing platforms aft of each hull. The cockpit is also equipped with  built-in refrigerator  with a drawer, so stocks of cold drinks are just a few steps away.  Dinghy  is mounted between the floats, on the aft crossbeam in the cockpit.  Lagoon 42 davit structure  is a one-piece design.  Dinghy  goes down and up with one rope.

Lagoon 42  available in three-cabin version  Maestro  and a four-cabin  charter version ... Traditionally, in the three-cabin version, one float is occupied by a spacious  master cabin  with a large island double bed aft and a very large bathroom in the bow. The bathroom has a separate shower and an electric toilet - a common luxury on a catamaran. Between the cabin and the bathroom is a dressing room with a dressing table or writing table, surrounded by a sofa, with shelves, full-length wardrobes, drawers and cupboards built into the bulkheads. An interesting door system separates the master cabin from the saloon. Most catamarans have a staircase that leads from the saloon to the cabin. On  Lagoon 42  a sliding door has been installed for complete privacy.

Lagoon 42 interior

Opposite, in the hull on the port side, the more traditional layout is two cabins, each with a bathroom.  Aft cabin  larger and has a separate shower.  Bow cabin  with a smaller bed and a one-piece combined bathroom with pull-out shower in the washbasin, more suitable for children. Air conditioning on the boat - and the choice of cabin configuration can be changed according to personal preference.

Centerpiece  in the cabin  there is a large table with voluminous sofas, which can easily accommodate 8 guests.  Separate galley  extends across the entire width of the passenger compartment and is separated by a sliding door. On the port side there is a sofa, separate refrigerator (front loading) and freezer (top loading), and hanging cupboards. On the starboard side there is one sink, a three-burner stove and a separate oven. A microwave oven is installed on the opposite bulkhead.

Navigation post  equipped in the bow of the passenger compartment on the starboard side, and large windows offer 360 ° panoramic views. In bad weather, you are likely to operate the yacht from this nautical post. It's nice to have a good view outside of the chartplotter. However, the best part of the nav post is the small  FOB (Free On Board) which allows you to adjust the autopilot heading with a few clicks of your finger.

Tested  Lagoon 42  equipped with two engines  Yanmar  57 hp, but standard options include 45 hp engines. They are coupled to a three-bladed folding propeller, and at cruising speed (2800 rpm) the catamaran reaches about 8 knots.  The yacht is generally heavy due to the interior and equipment, but quite pleasant to sail.  You need to understand that if performance is important to you, in addition to a comfortable home,  Lagoon 42  Is a spacious house on the water, a good option for life, for a charter, but he is not a conqueror of the oceans.

Bali 4.3 Review

43-foot catamaran Bali 4.3 who builds the shipyard  Catana catamarans is most focused on maximizing space on both upper and lower decks.  Catana  - these are catamarans with an emphasis on performance, brand  Bali  -  these are catamarans for charter They are large, heavy, built with an emphasis on the comfort of interior spaces and decks. Inside, everything is arranged literally like in a house on land, heating, air conditioning, a standard home refrigerator, a microwave oven. Naturally, carrying all of this equipment is still a task, not to mention wasting energy.

However, to preserve performance characteristics, the designers designed the hulls flared towards the cheekbones just above the waterline to keep the underwater sections narrow and efficient. It also provides ample additional buoyancy, which is an important feature for a boat with a one-piece bow as  Bali 4.3 ... Between the bows of the catamaran, the designers decided to install  sundeck instead of mesh .

On  Bali 4.3  installed two diesel engines  Kubota which mate with saildrives at their front ends, providing good access for servicing the engines. In fact, you can go down into the compartment and reach any surface of the engine.  Shipyard   Catana  has a reputation as a quality builder, and although the lineup  Bali  does not use carbon fiber reinforcement, lightweight laminate partitions, dagger boards and other performance enhancers that boats are known for  Catana  for individual orders (in order to reduce costs), catamarans  Bali  have a place to be.

Hulls and superstructure  built using vacuum infusion to provide a light yet rigid lay-up. Installing a flybridge on a boat of this size requires a high boom and a small mainsail, so the staysail is a significant source of energy when sailing.

Probably the biggest thing  Bali 4.3  is an  main deck layout ... Simply put, it is huge  open plan platform which is not found on other yachts of this size. This is a houseboat with sails. The centerpiece of this concept is  "Garage door" , a movable bulkhead covering the aft end of the cabin, which is raised electronically overhead, creating a large open space in fine weather. If the weather is getting worse or you need more privacy, just press the button and lower the bulkhead. The bulkhead has windows and a door, but now you have  closed wheelhouse boat ... This is a combined version of the saloon and cockpit from  Bali catamarans .

An opening molded in the saloon roof serves as a handrail, so driving on the side decks seems safe. However, the boat does need an extra handrail between the front of the saloon roof and the bow cockpit. Taking a few steps up from the main deck, you will find yourself on  flybridge.  Here it is  control post  with a soft comfortable skipper chair, sunbathing area and solar panels.

Three-cabin version  includes a lot of living space for owners in its own building, which resembles a compact city apartment. The two guest cabins in the hull on the starboard side are typical in size for such a boat. There is also a charter version with four cabins.  In charter version  each cabin is equipped with a separate bathroom.  Forward cabins  closer,  fodder  more spacious.

The configuration the shipyard calls  "Loft"  continues on the main deck where there is an unusual division of space  galley , with a stove and sink located forward and a household refrigerator and microwave to starboard toward the stern. For parties in particular, this layout makes sense as the cooking is separate from the area where you prepare the drinks. At the very end of the cabin, in the bow, everything is literally glazed, and the large central panel is lowered and raised on pneumatic lifts in the bulkhead. This, in turn, makes it easy to serve refreshing drinks to the sundeck from the salon.

Moving along the boat, you understand what niche this cat occupies in the market.  Exploring areas such as the Bahamas and the Caribbean must be delightful. However, while these huge windows and doors provide excellent visibility and a sense of space, they can be a hindrance in stormy conditions, and in general are dangerous on the high seas.

While testing the boat, the mainsail was installed and the spinnaker deployed in a true wind of 6 to 7 knots, and the boat speed reached just over 5 knots, which is quite decent. Unfortunately,  steering felt tight and imprecise and it was getting harder and harder to walk with the wind. There were even moments under load when  steering system  tied to a point where it was impossible to maintain an accurate course. In addition, there were problems with the adjustment of the staysail.  Solent and the staysail sheet winches were incorrectly installed and therefore difficult to use. Above 8 knots, the engines rotated at 2500 rpm, giving a noise level of 75 dBA in the cabin. The combination of engine and propeller is clearly sufficient for the boat.

Bali Test Drive 4.3

Bali 4.3  Is definitely a unique vessel with a fundamentally new concept in the field of living quarters. A charter in warm calm waters will feel like a hotel. But if you are a connoisseur of yachting, quality performance, buy a yacht for long trips with your family, if reliability and safety are important to you, this catamaran belongs to a different category. In truth, kats  Bali , even in the charter industry, is far from the most popular choice. On the same interior decoration, the shipyard saves a lot by using a lot of plastic.

Astrea 42 and Lagoon 42   - this is a completely different level of quality.  These are the two strongest players, although there are differences between them:  Lagoon   widely used by charter fleets , and uses cheaper materials and some equipment;  Fountaine Pajot are luxury catamarans , they are still considered a step higher in quality. The difference is in the details, for example  Lagoon  sets aluminum ducks,  FP  uses stainless steel, better hatches, wiring, finishes. The shipyard does not take risks, does not add extra centimeters to the width, balancing between performance and comfort, they just intelligently configure the space inside and out. Optionally, there are a lot of interesting functions and equipment, everything is functionally thought out.  Lagoon 42  more inflated catamaran, respectively heavier and slower compared to Astraea, but of high quality and comfortable.

In 2017, the Lagoon 42 was named the best multihull in the USA, this year the Astrea 42 was named the best multihull yacht in France and Europe. After the official presentation of this model, even before the first awards and nominations, the shipyard received such a number of orders that the delivery times have already exceeded 2021 at the moment, statistics that speak for themselves.

Interparus Yachting is the official representative of the Fountaine Pajot shipyard. To order a test and visit the shipyard, call +33644142168 (WhatsApp) Sasha Goron, or leave a request on the website. When buying a yacht, training is a gift from our team. See you in La Rochelle!

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Cannes Yachting Festival - 2016 kicks off

The modern world is hard to imagine without cryptocurrency. The cryptocurrency has firmly entered the world of finance and is not going to leave. All the more interesting is what Interparus has prepared especially for our clients!

St Vincent & The Grenadines

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Bali 4.3 (2019) 'Island Dreams'

Technical Specifications

Other amenities include:

• U.S. plugs throughout
• Electric fresh water heads
• Propane BBQ grill
• Stereo with Bluetooth capabilities
• Inverter for charging cell phones

The sea has been Greg’s passion for all his life and consequently, his chosen career. He is extremely well qualified with his RYA Commercially Endorsed Yachtmaster and very experienced. Greg has worked on dive boats, as the captain of a large private yacht, and as the owner/skipper of a sports fishing tour business in St Vincent (he also worked on the set of the Pirates of the Caribbean films, as location scout and as the Director’s boat – does he have some stories to tell!)

In recent years, he has worked as a freelance skipper and as a delivery skipper all over the world, but he is happiest sailing in his home territory of the Grenadines.

He is also a PADI qualified dive instructor and a keen fisherman. He considers of prime importance the comfort and safety of his crew and guests alike and the immaculate condition and maintenance of whatever boat he captains. He is a relaxed, convivial captain who will make you feel at home. He also makes a wicked rum punch!

Laura Hadaway

Laura was born and raised in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 30 something years ago (she has stopped counting) Cooking and the sea were both integral part of life. Growing up with fresh local cuisine at her disposal, she has learned to prepare food from the greatest cooks around, her grandmother and mother. As she has grown and sampled, dabbled and researched cuisines, it comes as an enjoyable on- going learning experience for her.

Sailing also runs through her blood; her grandfather captained schooners sailing in the Caribbean and explains her continuing love of sailing. She has attained jobs as a cook or crew on charter yachts since 2004, mainly the Caribbean chain

from the BVI to Grenada, not only for the experience and to build her portfolio, but just for the sheer love of doing it.Her easy going, pleasant, witty disposition, combined with her attention to detail are some attributes that continue to make her guests feel comfortable, relaxed and appreciative of their time spent with her.

10ft RIB dinghy with a Honda 20 hp outboard motor

Hilary Cohen Greg and Laura are off the charts! If you are lucky enough to sail with them, you will have the sail of your dreams

Bud Ris Greg and Laura, were absolutely the best! Very capable and very wonderful people. With all the worries about the virus back home, they made us feel very welcome and comfortable. The food was outstanding, well above out expectations! Greg is a great Captain and a quite story teller! We learned a lot about the history of The Islands and all the colorful character who appear to be related to Greg! Thank you!

Martin Clifford Greg and Laura did a fabulous job. Greg always left us with a feeling of confidence aboard and Laura’s food was fantastic.

Susan Jansen Greg, Laura and Lisa make it all seamless and perfect. Will be back ASAP

Charter Rates

Low Season – JUL 10 – OCT 31

US$1228/day

Low/Mid Season – APR 25 – JUL 9, & NOV 1 – DEC 17

US$1,314/day

Mid Season – JAN 5 – JAN 30

US$1,457/day

High Season – DEC 18 – JAN 4, & JAN 31 – APR 24

US$1,528/day

Luxury Crewed Charter Rates

The Horizon Yacht Charters St Vincent Crewed Charter rates are for 7 nights per vessel and are based on number of guests. Please see individual yacht pages for detailed specifications and charter rates. Horizon Yacht Charters luxury crewed yacht charters comes complete with your own personal Captain & Chef (and in the larger yachts, first mate and hostess).  Your meals aboard are included in the rate and prepared to your groups’ individual preferences and dietary requirements. Beverages are also included but please note special requests for specific brands may be subject to additional charge.  Watersports equipment (such as paddle boards, kayaks etc) are also included and some yachts offer all inclusive diving.

High season rates typically apply from December to April, low season May to November, but please do check the seasonal rates for your yacht.

Each individual crewed yacht may charge for certain additional expenses (e.g. National Park Permit, Cruising permit, different port collections or departures).  Please ask for a full break-down of costs for your chosen yacht.

All yachts come with tenders with outboards and safety equipment. Please review the individual yacht specification on our website for further details of available equipment and details of inclusions and exclusions.

Yacht photographs and specifications act as a guide and are for information purposes only.  Although we endeavor to ensure that images are accurate reflections of the yachts in our fleet, certain aspects may vary slightly.

Please note that our bareboat repeat client discount does not apply to our crewed charter fleet.

C = Cabins, H = Heads, AC = Air Conditioning

Supplements to the published rates may apply during Christmas and New Year periods. Please contact us for confirmation of rates.

Charter Rates shown above are for 7 nights per vessel (Christmas and New Year supplements on selected yachts). Crewed Charters usually start at noon and finish at noon, but please do check times for your particular yacht.

• Additional water-sports  (other than those included on the crewed yacht) are all available at competitive rates.
• Hotel Accommodations  throughout the islands can be arranged. Most major credit cards accepted.  Please check our Accommodations page for more information.

Bookings & Cancellations

Bookings and Cancellations  – We require a 50% deposit to confirm the reservation and the balance due of 50% no later than 45 days prior to charter start date. A smaller deposit and interim fee may be acceptable for bookings made more than 12 months in advance. Cancellation fees apply, and vary from yacht-to-yacht. Please check the specific terms for your yacht at the time of booking.

Trip Cancellation Insurance:  We strongly recommended this as it protects you should anything unforeseen occur before your holiday. Follow this link for more information.

Conditions apply to all charters. Crewed Charter Rates are subject to change without notice.

2019 Bali Catamarans 4.3 MY

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Sailboat Review: New Models from Bali Catamaran

• By Mark Pillsbury
• November 14, 2022

When Cruising World ’s Boat of the Year judges step aboard a new sailboat, the first thing they ask the ­builder for is the boat’s design brief. Racing? Bluewater voyaging? Coastal cruising? Chartering? Daysailing? What’s the boat built to do?

In the case of two new Bali Catamarans , introduced to North America this past fall during the United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, the ­manufacturer’s intent seemed perfectly clear: These cats were built for ­hanging out on the water with family and friends, or perhaps for owners interested in putting them into a charter fleet to help pay the bills. “Pampered crew” were two words that came immediately to mind when I stepped aboard.

Both cats—the Bali 4.6 and Bali Catspace—were conceived of by Olivier Poncin, ­founder of the Catana Group, and ­designed by the in-house team that has been building well-­respected performance catamarans at their yard in France for nearly four decades now. 

When I think about Catana Catamarans, features such as daggerboards, sleek hulls and powerful sail plans designed to gobble up ocean miles come immediately to mind. When I think about Bali, my mind turns to comfortable surroundings and tropical anchorages, with soothing trade winds blowing through the saloon and multiple places to lounge in the sun or shade.

The Catana Group launched the Bali brand in 2014, on the company’s 30th ­anniversary. At the time, the multihull ­market was exploding, and while ­Catana had a strong following at the performance end of the speed-comfort continuum, their boats were expensive and geared to a niche market. Balis, on the other hand, were designed and built to be “more accessible in terms of price,” the company’s online brochure notes, and “therefore aimed at a wider clientele.” It’s no accident that many of those clients chose to add their Balis to charter fleets in the Caribbean and other tropical spots around the world. As a result, the brand took off, to the point where today, it takes up the bulk of ­Catana’s production capacity.

The 4.6 and Catspace share many of the same features found across the Bali Range: solid composite foredecks rather than the trampolines found on most catamarans; ­multiple spaces to kick back and ­relax; home-style refrigerators in the galleys; large sliding windows on the cabin sides; and ­garage-style doors that open and lift overhead aft in the saloon, making it difficult to discern where the interior stops and the great outdoors begins. 

The sail-away prices of the boats we visited in ­Annapolis were $920,000 for the 4.6 and $550,000 for the Catspace. In all, Bali manufactures seven sailing models and two ­power cats, so buyers have options when it comes to size and price.

Bali hulls and decks are ­resin-infused and foam-cored, which makes them strong and stiff while saving weight. Throughout the range, Balis are built with short, fixed keels, affixed to relatively beamy hulls that have abundant load-carrying capacity. In practice, that means the boats can be loaded with gear such as air conditioning, appliances and generators—and toys and provisions for all the crew.

With a length overall of 44 feet, 6 inches, the 4.6 presents a number of interesting features and options. First, there is the flybridge, set atop the cockpit Bimini and a portion of cabin top abaft the mast. It can be reached via steps on either side deck. A helm station is to port, with a bench that seats two comfortably. Adjacent to it is a good-size table with L-shaped seating around it, and sun beds behind. The wheel itself is mounted on a pedestal, and there’s room to walk in front, between it and the winches mounted on the cabin top. With this arrangement, there’s room for the crew to jump in and help trim sails, though without helpers, it does require the skipper to rely on the autopilot when leaving the helm to tend to sheets.

Underway, I liked the setup. There was good visibility, both around the boat and also of the mainsail overhead, thanks to a window in the canvas Bimini. The main was simple to control using the double-ended sheet led to blocks on the corners of the flybridge, replacing the traveler. The arrangement is ­especially good for jibing. 

In a good breeze, 10 to 12 knots, our speed over the ground hovered right around 5 knots; we added a knot to that when we bore off to a beam reach. If I bought the boat and didn’t have plans to put it ­into charter, I’d definitely add a code zero to my sail arsenal. 

Down below, I liked the ­layout of the saloon as well. With the sliding windows and overhead door open, I had the feeling of being outside, ­sitting in the shade. The dining ­table is to port; two chairs are ­opposite. Forward of the table is an L-shaped galley to port with loads of counter space; a large fridge and freezer sits ­opposite, with a ­proper nav ­station tucked forward, surrounded by windows and ­adjacent to the centerline door leading to another lounge area on the foredeck. 

Depending on how the boat will be used, there are a few different layouts for the staterooms and heads, ranging from a three-stateroom version, where the entire starboard hull is the owner’s en suite, to four- and even five-stateroom layouts. In the latter, access to the port aft stateroom is by a companionway from the cockpit, and a stateroom with bunk beds is amidships, with a third stateroom forward. Crew berths in either forepeak are also available.

The 4.6 we tested in Annapolis was powered by a pair of 57 hp Yanmars with saildrives; 45 hp Yanmars are standard.

A t just over 37 feet length overall, the Catspace is one of the smaller ­production cats available these days. It ­also has an airy feeling in the saloon’s dining and ­lounging area, thanks to a ­similar aft door arrangement. But space doesn’t permit a second door to the foredeck. Instead, there’s a larger center window that opens to let in the breeze, and the galley (including a ­full-size fridge) is in the forward ­starboard corner of the main cabin.

Available layouts include a three-stateroom version, where the owner’s stateroom ­occupies the port hull, or a charter-­friendly four-stateroom layout, with athwartship bunks in the two forward staterooms.

As with its bigger sister, the Catspace has lounge areas on the foredeck and atop its flybridge. The helm station is up top too, to starboard, and is surrounded on the side and behind with cushions. Unlike the 4.6, the Catspace’s winches are close at hand when sitting at the wheel. A singlehander or skipper with a ­short-handed crew will appreciate this. I found access to the flybridge via stairs from either side deck to be quite good, with handholds located where I needed them.

Again, if I planned to buy and sail the Catspace, I’d ­include a code zero or some other all-round reaching sail to add a little more get-up-and-go. We went sailing in about 15 knots of wind and notched about 4 knots on the speedo closehauled. In a higher puff, I saw just under 6 knots reaching. But was it a comfortable ride? You bet.

As stated at the outset, ­sailboats are built to suit a ­purpose. During a Boat of the Year debrief this past fall, judge Tim Murphy told his colleagues that overall, he thought that the open-air concept incorporated into the design of the 4.6 and Catspace works quite well. Recalling a weeklong vacation spent with five friends aboard an earlier Bali model, he said, “On the ­charter, it was actually delightful.” 

Specifications

Mark Pillsbury is a CW  editor-at-large.

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• Lagoon vs Bali catamarans
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Heard of both brands, but wish you knew more about them? With Lagoon and Bali present on the market as two of the most renowned catamaran brands, we invite you to read the comparative review of Lagoon and Bali catamarans below.

Bali catamarans: Overview

When we say Bali, we do not mean the beautiful island everyone knows about in Indonesia. Even the pronunciation is different. Put an accent on the ‘i’ and make it longer. When you read it out loud, you will hear that you are not talking about the island. Now that we got this cleared up, let’s get down to business. 

Bali Catamarans are a part of the Catana Group and have been on the market for less than 10 years. In 2014 the first models of cruising catamarans were presented and have been accepted exceptionally well in a short period of time.

One of the first things you will notice when seeing a Bali catamaran is its elegant, beautiful and sleek design . Bali catamarans are one of the most beautifully designed catamarans, with innovative design solutions. Bali catamarans have sharper edges compared to Lagoon catamarans. They really do leave you breathless.

Another thing is the solid foredeck . There is no trampoline which you might see on other catamarans. A solid foredeck provides more space for entertainment on cushions and large sunbeds. Many experienced sailors say that the solid construction makes the Bali catamarans stronger compared to others without the solid foredeck, even though it does not significantly add to the overall weight.

Loving the outdoor/indoor feel ? Bali catamarans offer you exactly this! One of its main features which separate them from others is the main deck saloon. For example, on the Bali 4.3 you can easily open up your closed saloon with the garage door (tilting swing door). If there is too much wind or bad weather is just around the corner, easily close the saloon to create a closed indoor lounge in just a few seconds.

If you do not like the ‘feels like a hotel’ boat and the open space main deck, then Bali catamarans might not be the boats for you. There is hardly any outdoor ‘privacy’ as everything is really well connected and open and everyone is constantly together unless you pick some of the bigger models like the Bali 4.8 or Bali 5.4 .

If you have kids and want to give them additional entertainment such as a trampoline, the trampoline foredeck is missing on a Bali catamaran. You will never find the nets on any Bali catamaran model so this might make your choice easier.

Going into more technical details and compared to other catamarans, the booms are slightly higher which can occasionally cause problems to skippers if the mainsail needs to be manually handled. Cabins are not so high compared to Lagoon models so, for taller guests, this could be a slight issue. 

Luxury Bali Catamaran models 

Bali has several models ranging from 11.8m such as the Bali 4.0 , all the way to Bali 5.4 which is 16.2m long. The larger charter models are growing into true luxury catamarans. Even with the tiniest details, Bali catamarans are doing their best to bring the luxury feel even closer to you.

If you have decided that it is finally time to experience something ‘wow’, Yacht4Less recommends the luxury models such as the Bali 5.4. Bali 5.4 is available with 4, 5 or 6 cabins for up to 10-14 people. Find the perfect 5 cabin Bali 5.4 in Croatia . 

Bali 5.4 not only offers you a stunningly comfortable catamaran with a lot of space for relaxation, an enormous flybridge large enough for a home-made cinema area, and a newly designed forward cockpit entertainment area which can be accessed from the galley directly, but you can also access the aft cabins directly from the aft deck. If you are an early bird, this is the perfect boat as you will not wake up others on board.

Lagoon Catamarans: Overview

When someone says the word catamaran, people will first think of a Lagoon, no doubt about it. Lagoon is the most known catamaran brand as they are the world leader in producing cruising catamarans. Being a part of the Beneteau Group, they have evolved and worked on making top-of-the-line catamarans for charters since 1984, which is almost 40 years now.

The interior and cabins are very spacious and high, which is very convenient for taller guests. Cabins have plenty of storage for everyone’s belongings so don’t worry about bringing too many summer dresses. You can enjoy the panoramic views from the galley and indoor seating area. The windows stretch from one side to the other, giving full 360’ views when indoors.

Exterior : the famous trampoline! The best way to recognize a Lagoon is by two trampoline nets up front. You can suntan, chill and read while enjoying the sound and breeze of the sea below you. There is no better feeling! On top of that, there is plenty of outside space for entertaining. Even if you do not want to dine all together every time, kids can be at one table, adults at another. The feel of the terrace-on-water is unique to the Lagoon as everything is very open.

Something to keep in mind is that Lagoons have been around for a very long time so they have also been tested and reviewed by many sailors, making the Lagoon catamarans a ‘safe’ choice compared to others.

Even though the Lagoon catamarans are very spacious and big, when compared to other catamaran brands, they are the bulkiest of all. This, of course, will not affect your holiday in any way, however, they are not the most luxurious-looking models out there - alghough, this is subjective -. As the Lagoons are very heavy, they are also not the best in performance if you're looking for an active sailing trip.  

In comparison to other catamaran models, Lagoons usually have smaller water tanks. We advise that you check the size of water tanks and ask your Yacht4Less charter consultant to source one equipped with a watermaker if you are sailing with a lot of people, especially when chartering in the Caribbean or Exotics where there are fewer available stops to re-fill. 

As Lagoon is a well-astonished brand, the prices of Lagoon catamarans might be higher in comparison to other brands with the same features and cabin numbers. Don't forget to check in with your Yacht4Less yacht charter consultant for the market's best rates on the dates and boat you pref er.

Luxury Lagoon Catamaran models 

Expanding its portfolio of catamaran models, Lagoon has introduced several luxurious models in the past years. The Seventy7 and Sixty5 catamarans are some of the most luxurious sailing yachts. Due to their size, these catamarans are usually only offered on a crewed basis. If these are slightly out of your budget, Yacht4Less recommends the Lagoon 52F and the brand new Lagoon 51.

The Lagoon 52F is one of the most accepted models yet as it is the result of customer feedback and suggestions which have been collected over the years. There is no other catamaran which has applied so much constructive feedback. Architects remained true to the Lagoon key features while making every other change for the better!

Due to this and the upgrade in materials and style, the Lagoon 52F is a model you should not ignore. The Lagoon 52 review has already been published in detail . The difference now is that the flybridge has been added. Not only can the helm be reached from two sides (from the cockpit and the starboard side), the flybridge adds another wonderful entertaining area. 

If you are one of those people who always look at the new models of things in life, the Lagoon 51 should be on your radar. This new model became available in the summer of 2022, so you might be one of the first to experience it. 

Its best and hottest feature is the large flybridge where the skipper and the guests can be together at all times. The flybridge has 2 large sun pads and a C-shaped seating area with the helm station in the centre. Even the central table can be lowered into a huge sunbathing area. Isn’t that cool for a flybridge?

The indoor saloon has been lifted, making the panoramic views even better. The transoms are extended making it easy to get on board from the dock, and also giving you an additional platform to stay closer to the water when anchored. 

Final thoughts: Which is better?

It might sound crazy but if one of the most important things to you about a catamaran is the trampoline up front, then Lagoon is the answer. Kids love this feature. It offers a truly unique experience while sailing and anchored.  

Both brands are great for a relaxing holiday and have won many awards, so whichever you choose, you will not have any regrets. We could not tell you which is better as there honestly is no correct answer.

FAQ section

Are bali or lagoon catamarans good quality.

Yes. Both brands are well known and have won many awards for their performances and quality. They use the most advanced materials and technology, listen to customer feedback and the shipyards constantly improve their catamarans with each new model. 

Where are Bali or Lagoon catamarans made?

Bali catamarans and Lagoon catamarans are both manufactured in France. Bali’s shipyard is at the Catana Yard on the South coast, just next to Perpignan. Lagoon catamarans are built on the West coast of France, in Bordeaux. 

Does Bali or Lagoon make a power catamaran?

Bali and Lagoon both make power catamarans. Lagoon has the newest Sixty7 and Seventy7 power catamarans to show. There are also other models such as the Lagoon Power 43, Lagoon Power 44, and Lagoon Power 40. Bali’s power catamarans are the Bali 4.3 MY and the Bali Catspace MY.

Are Bali or Lagoon catamarans more spacious?

When comparing similarly sized models, Lagoon catamarans are more spacious than Bali catamarans. Lagoon Catamarans are great for large groups of people, as both the exterior and interior have a lot of space.

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Bali 4.3 Layout

The Bali 4.3 layout and pictures below share the space plans that made possible a wide open saloon that opens to the outside with a convertible rear wall. That and the full-size refrigerator are just a few of the innovative concepts that Catana introduced with the Bali 4.3.

For more than 30 years, we have been a part of the catamaran community and created Catamaran Guru™ to encourage and educate all the aspiring sailing out there. We understand the dream of traveling the world by catamaran and created a one-stop-shop to make that dream a reality for you.

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This new 4.4 is in some ways a replacement for the Bali 4.3, but particularly the 4.5, the very first model in the Bali range. Aboard this catamaran, more than ever dedicated to comfort and family vacations, all the attributes of the Bali DNA are to be found - tilting door, opening side bay windows, rigid foredeck, and large chilled capacity. As a bonus, with the size of this model being closer to the 4.6 than the 4.4, there is a forward door, a flybridge and aft platform.

Test location: La Rochelle, France Conditions: North-easterly 8 to 15 knots, very light chop

Practical info

• Builder : Bali Catamarans

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• Available in issue # 183

Boat Test price 5.00 € Inc. tax

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We got the chance to try this new Bali as a preview... and very early in the season, too. But that didn’t prevent us from enjoying the hedonistic spirit intended by the designers of this catamaran. But it wasn’t all easy: persistent fog, freezing temperatures and especially frosty ropes didn’t make for very inviting sailing! On the dock, Boris Compagnon, Sales Director of Catana Group, and Kahina Oussadi, from their communication department, showed no discouragement: they came up with a few spare electric heaters and hooked them up to the mains, giving us a few more degrees of warmth inside. Of course, all this meant that we weren’t going to be taking advantage of the “open space” mode, one of the big features on every Bali model. No, this time we were keeping everything closed! And I have to admit that this “winter” configuration is also very convincing - the XXL area of the nacelle and the big windows are very pleasing.

As soon as the gennaker is unfurled, it turbocharges this platform that was designed primarily for comfort. The outboard chines and the 45° angle of the inboard topsides provide maximum agility while maintaining favorable waterline beam.

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