bali catamaran review

Bali 4.5 Catamaran Review and Test Sail

The Bali 4.5 Catamaran Philosophy

The Catana Group, led by Olivier Poncin, decided to cast a wider net to attract the cruising sailor as well as their usual high performance clientele. However, because of the high level of customization and very high-tech building materials and building processes that Catana use in their performance catamaran range, it is usually fairly expensive and out of the reach of the average sailor. So, to mark their 30th anniversary, they designed a catamaran that would not only appeal to the cruising market but would come in at a reasonable price point. The Bali 4.5 catamaran was conceived from Olivier Poncin’s vision of a Catana-built cruising catamaran.

Catana smartly realized that to deliver a cruising catamaran to compete with Fountaine Pajot, Lagoon, or Leopard cruising cats, it had to change its approach to the manufacturing process. It established a production line for the Bali range in their existing state-of-the-art-factory in France and, using existing infrastructure, staff and building methods, managed to speed up manufacturing. This meant that they could build more boats, faster. However, while they needed to reduce production costs, Catana insisted that they maintain the company’s core values of innovative design, technology and exceptional quality in the Bali range. The Bali 4.5 was unveiled for the first time to the sailing public in Cannes last year and this performance cruiser did not disappoint. While the Bali is less customizable than the Catana performance range, Catana still offers various options for equipment , finishes and 4 different layouts .

Design Concept And Manufacture

Poncin and designer, Xavier Fay, envisioned a catamaran with an “Open-Space” feeling throughout. To achieve this, they removed the trampolines, lengthened the forward cockpit to add a seating area and sunbathing area, added large vertical-sliding windows between the salon and forward cockpit with huge sliding doors onto the aft cockpit. This expands the living space literally from one end of the boat all the way to the other, uninterrupted on one level with great natural ventilation. People on board are completely connected at all times without ever feeling cramped in small spaces.  This “Open Space” concept was the most commented-on thing about the Bali at the Miami boat show. It is really impressive and makes this 45ft cat appear so much more roomy that it’s competitors.

In the pictures below one can see the open space from the “drop down deck extention” in the aft cockpit, all the way to the front cockpit and lounging area with pass-throughs at the galley and forward window.

To create this flat open platform without any obstructions, Catana created a very stiff and strong platform/bridge deck with as little flexing as possible. They achieved this by using box sections within the bridge deck. This allowed for the removal of the rear bulkhead structure, opening up the space further while the solid foredeck further contributed to the stiffness of the boat. The foredeck is not just a flat piece of decking but is actually part of the bow with box sections, which makes it very buoyant. An integrated bowsprit further strengthens the front section.

At first this solid foredeck met with skepticism from critics. They predicted that the boat might be too heavy, not buoyant enough up forward and would encourage excessive slamming like it was with the old Prouts and Catalacs. These designers dealt with excess weight by fitting trampolines in the bows. However, with modern technology and super light and strong building materials, we simply don’t need trampolines to reduce weight significantly anymore. So Catana did away with the trampolines altogether, allowing for a stronger, stiffer and more buoyant platform. The bows are also slightly reversed, giving increased waterline and buoyancy as far forwards as possible.

The bottom of the forward deck has a pronounced angle (as seen in the picture below) leading upwards towards the front or cross beam. The center nacelle further adds buoyancy at the chest of the boat. This results in the tendency to climb out or rise out of the water rather than dig into the waves. The nacelle also acts as the drain box. The scuppers in the forward area are next to the windlass and drain into the drain box, from here the water is purged though scuppers at the back of the nacelle. They face to the rear on a flat surface in the trailing end of the nacelle. This design stops water from shooting back up through the scuppers in the forward cockpit when the boat bottoms out in rough seas.

The Bali is constructed with foam core that is resin infused resulting in a light strong vessel. The hull shape allows it to surf down waves easily and it has an above average bridgedeck clearance with good freeboard in the hull sections. The increased bridgedeck clearance and high freeboard  (see picture below: Leopard 44 vs Bali 4.5) results in a very quiet ride with minimal slamming. If a wave does break on top of the foredeck, the scuppers will purge the water quickly and efficiently. The point of impact of the waves on the chest of the boat is central, as is usual with all cats.

The often-controversial unprotected aft helm positions of the high performance Catana models have been changed to two different options; bulkhead steering or on the flybridge. This change alone will attract many more cruisers who previously rejected Catana for this reason.

Bali 4.5 Interior

The Bali is well-thought-out as a cruising boat. It is clean, modern, functional and airy with easy to maintain surfaces. The “interactive” inside-outside living areas, all on one level, makes this 45ft catamaran feel huge. The owner’s version in the port hull has a big shower and separate head, desk, sofa, island bed and plenty of storage and hanging space. The storage, lighting and ventilation throughout the cabin are more than ample. The privacy door separates the owners cabin from the rest of the boat.

The charter version feels slightly tight down below in the hulls. The two cabins, two showers stalls and two separate toilets make it a tight fit but the beds are comfortable, semi walk around and the cabin has loads of storage. See the four different configurations . All wiring, plumbing and systems are easily accessible everywhere.

The galley work surface is possibly a little small but there is a lot of storage throughout galley and the salon. The oven and microwave are at eye level, which makes cooking much safer and easier while underway. The humongous “American style” fridge/freezer seemed like overkill, being used to tiny marine fridges. I thought this to be a little obnoxious at first but after spending some time on it, I appreciated the value of having the capacity of the fridge with built-in icemaker.

The pass-through windows to both cockpits make entertainment a breeze and while messing in the kitchen, the “chef” never feels cut off from the guests. It is an awesome arrangement and I believe that because of this, the foredeck will be used far more often as the dining area than the aft deck. The salon is big and even with 6 to 8 people standing around, it did not feel particularly cramped.

Bali 4.5 Exterior

The aft cockpit has a large dining table that can easily seat 6-8 people. The L-shaped bench-seat can seat 4 people with an additional 4 chairs. The bench seat is comfortable enough to serve as a watch-keepers bunk during a passage. Once the dinghy is lowered, the “gate” folds down to become a passerelle down to the water or to the dock, which extends the cockpit a further 2ft and gives it the “infiniti pool” look into the ocean.The forward deck has another large cockpit with two removable tables and large sun-loungers. When the sun awning is set up, this “marine terrace” provides a great friendly spot whether at anchor or underway. The overhang over the windows on the cabin top provides much needed shade and prevents rainwater from dripping into the saloon.

The flybridge, covered with a sun awning, is very comfortable with plenty of space for at least 4 people. It is easy to maneuver and sail the boat from this vantage point. All the lines lead back to the helm station and the instruments are easily reachable from the helm. My problem with the flybridge arrangement in this case, is that you have to leave the cockpit completely to get to the helm station. This is great for boat handling on charter, away from the rest of the party but not ideal for short-handed cruisers. In that case I would prefer the bulkhead steering position but this semi-raised helm station is small compared to the competition. The stairs going up to the helm from the cockpit, consists of just a small “step-ladder”, not ideal, in my opinion. You have to be fairly agile to get around to and from this cockpit arrangement.

Engines / Equipment

On the Bali 4.5, the 50hp Nanni diesel engine installation is well planned. The 50 hp motors are aft-facing which allows the sail drive to be forward of the rudder, unlike the other competitors who have the rudder forward of the propeller. Having the rudders right at the back of the hull results in superior handling and tracking characteristics. The high-output alternators and the high pressure pump for the 200 liter/hour watermaker are efficiently linked to the engine via belt drives and electric clutches. The pre-filters and control panel are accessible for easy maintenance and servicing. In addition, there are 400W of solar panels located on the bimini top.

The Bali 4.5 is fast under engine (8 knots at 2,100 rpm, 9.5 knots flat out). The engine noise level is negligible in the cabins (64Db) but is slightly louder in the saloon. This 4.5 is fitted with fixed blade propellers, but three-bladed folding props are an option, which would greatly reduce drag, yet maintain comparable performance under motor. The whole arrangement seems to be well balanced and the sail drives do not generate much vibration. The cable steering is very responsive.

The boat has two inverters:

• a 2KW unit dedicated to the large refrigerator.
• a 3KW unit that takes care of the rest of the boat’s energy requirements.

The Onan 9KW generator is located in the forward locker to port and has very good access for service and maintenance.

Check out more Bali 4.5 Technical Specifications .

Sailing The Bali 4.5

We sailed the Bali 4.5 catamaran from Miami to Fort Lauderdale after the Miami Boat Show and put her through her paces to see if she lived up to the hype. We left through the main entrance to the harbor and as is normal, there were standing waves and all sorts of sloppy seas in the cut. We motored the Bali directly into the steep waves coming through the entrance and despite the foredeck slamming down as we went over each wave, no water ended up on the foredeck. We had left all the cushions out on the foredeck and they did not even get any sea spray on them. The cat has very high freeboard and exceptional bridgedeck clearance, which makes it a very dry boat. During the three hour trip in sloppy seas, we did not notice any excessive slamming on the bridgedeck.

Handling in this confused sea was remarkable. The Bali is light and we enjoyed how responsive she was both under sail and motor. She is easy to maneuver under motor in very tight spaces and easily turned on her own keel. Sail handling was a breeze, with the winches well placed. With the mast further aft, the self-tacking jib is bigger than the competitors and makes tacking a snap with a small crew. In light wind the Bali tacked and jibed without effort and was very responsive. On the trip up to Fort Lauderdale with around 20 knots of wind and quartering seas we saw 14 knots while surfing down a wave but was sitting at a steady 9-10 knots with 15-20 knots of wind for the duration of the trip. This catamaran feels safe and comfortable in all the living areas, including the foredeck and forward cockpit under sail in very confused seas.

The Bali is solidly built, performs well and is very comfortable as a cruising catamaran. All the concerns about a solid forward deck are unfounded and the clever “Open Space” concept with the saloon’s retractable door is a winner when at anchor. Undoubtedly, the Bali has some very “out of the box” ideas. These are very exciting innovations in the catamaran world and Catana is leading the way for performance cruisers.

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Estelle Cockcroft

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Ever wondered what makes the Bali 4.6 so special? This luxury catamaran is a front-runner for comfortable sailing and entertaining. With outstanding innovative features and space for up to 12 guests, this first-class yacht deserves to be reviewed.

Read more about why the Bali 4.6 is one of our top picks and why she is highly recommended. We hope you will find this review useful, and our Yacht4Less team is here for any additional information you might need. 

Bali 4.6 Design and Exterior

Bali 4.6 interior, bali 4.6 performance, bali 4.6 customer feedback.

• ​​​​​​​Final Verdict for Bali 4.6

You may also like:  Lagoon 620 review  | Lagoon 77 review | Lagoon 52 review  | Lagoon 46 review |  Lagoon 42 review  |  Lagoon 40 review  |  Sun Odyssey 519 review  |  Saba 50 review  | Lagoon Seventy8

The Bali 4.6 is just over 14m in length, with a sleek design and a spacious layout. As with every catamaran, the hulls house the boat’s accommodation, and she can come in a 3, 4, or 5 cabin version. 

The deck offers substantial space to relax: a large cozy seating area on the flybridge next to the helm, a salon with a family-style table, and an amazing sunbed at the foredeck.

She has a large fully battened mainsail, a self-tacking jib, and electrical winches which makes sailing very easy - exactly what you need for a safe and enjoyable holiday! The rigging on this beauty is well designed, resulting in easy control of the sails too!

Bali Catamarans are specific as they have a solid foredeck (no trampoline), their famous garage-style door, high quality construction, and impressive performance. You cannot miss a Bali Catamaran as they truly stand out.

The interior is extraordinary. The cabins have en-suite bathrooms and large windows for natural light and spectacular views that you can enjoy while still laying in bed. Cabins are functional and comfortable so whichever cabin version catamaran you choose, storage will never be an issue. 

The galley is 5-star level and fully equipped: with a double-sided fridge, gas stove, dishwasher, freezer with chilled water, and an ice maker (different charter yachts will feature different amenities). Its open living area merges the cockpit and saloon into one large spac e.

This top-notch yacht is well equipped with all the latest technology - modern navigation and electronic equipment, autopilot systems, GPS chart plotters, inverters, generators and solar panels. You’ve got it all. 

Thinking about chilling with a movie? Relax in front of the flat screen TV and turn up the cinema-like stereo system to get the full experience. If nights are hot, you can cool down the interior with the air conditioning, or turn on the heating when the nights are cool. 

The Bali 4.6 is fast and easy to sail. She has a self-tacking jib - which is very helpful as the crew does not have to adjust the sail’s angle manually, making this catamaran easier to handle and more maneuverable.

She also has a raised helm station which provides excellent visibility when sailing, especially in tight spaces. The 360’ view makes sailing so much easier. She is very easy to maneuver as she is equipped with twin diesel engines, allowing for a lot of power and control.

The Bali 4.6 is designed with both comfort and ease of use in mind, making her an excellent choice for sailors. However, if you want a truly relaxing holiday on this catamaran, we recommend chartering her with a skipper and for an extra luxurious stay onboard, additional crew (hostess/chef). Read more about skippered holidays . 

The Bali 4.6 has been well-received and praised by many sailors. Some of the stand-out points are that she is a luxurious, comfortable, easy-to-use, and well-designed catamaran. The open space concept is highlighted as one of her greatest attributes for socializing.

It is hard to point out the cons of such a popular catamaran. If you are traveling with large bulky items, storage might be an issue. Price is also something to consider as she can be more expensive compared to others in her class, especially in the high season!

Up for a tan? The foredeck sunbeds are where you can enjoy most of the sun! If you want to enjoy beautiful 360 views and drink your cocktail while anchored in a secluded bay in the shade, head for the helm station. 

This popular catamaran is often compared to other catamarans. The Lagoon 46 is a similar sized catamaran with a spacious interior, but is more performance oriented. You can read more in our Lagoon 46 review . 

​​​​​​​ Final Verdict for Bali 4.6

Bali Catamarans can be found in several sizes and models. The new Catsmart and Catspace models are the future of the Bali Catamarans, as well as larger Bali models such as Bali 4.8 and Bali 5.4. Feel free to contact the Yacht4Less team to get more information about these models if you are in the market for an even bigger catamaran. 

If you feel that the Bali 4.6 is a perfect fit, the Yacht4Less team will gladly help you find a local one available for your preferred dates and destination. Since these catamarans are very popular, we suggest booking yours sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.

Overall, the Bali 4.6 is a unique and innovative catamaran offering luxurious living, hotel-style designs and excellent performance. She combines the best of both worlds, sailing and entertainment, and is ideal for a large group of friends or family.

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Top 4 Builder With Olivier Poncin at the helm, the Catana Group has become one of the top four catamaran builders in the world, and they are intent on offering a model range that matches every size of the main competition (Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Leopard). Take a look at our Catana 471 review : that model was the among the first models this company sold with Poncin in charge. The company has certainly changed direction!

The Bali 4.8 Open Space fills the gap between the 4.6 and the 5.4 with all of those innovative Bali features from previous designs, plus some new ones too. These catamarans are built close to where the Windelo 50 is made- but they couldn’t be more different.

• Up to 5 configurations to choose from, going up to 6 cabins each with their own heads.
• Huge living space on the main deck with the garage door and access to the foredeck lounge.
• Very light and spacious with the big fridge.
• Direct access to the transom from the aft cabins. Big cabins forward.
• Great visibility from the flybridge helm with even more living space up here.
• The height of the boom – it won’t be easy to reach the mainsail if there is a problem.
• You are pretty isolated up on the flybridge, especially coming into the marina.
• The winches seem low, you might be winding on your knees.
• High centre of effort on the mainsail.
• The solid foredeck would worry me in a big sea.

So like her siblings, the 4.8 comes with the solid foredeck, a fully open interior, the garage door that turns the whole main deck area into one outside or one inside space depending on the weather, and the big American fridge/freezer. And with all of that Catana experience, they have once again produced a boat that sails and is comfortable at sea.

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Are you looking for a Bali 4.8 to charter? Browse our selection of high quality yachts for rent below ⇓

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A Tough Boat The boat is constructed with a closed-cell PVC foam sandwich (there is no balsa here unlike the competition), and the bulkheads are laminated rather than glued which all adds up to a strong, stiff, hard wearing boat. The company now has yards in Canet-en-Roussillon, La Rochelle and Tunisia.

Living Area

Let’s cover this off first shall we, as that is the real Wow Factor on Bali Catamarans. All of that space! The finish isn’t up to the standard of, say, a Privilege Catamaran but, to be fair, we are not talking the same price point.

When you put in your Bali 4.8 order, you will have some planning to do because this catamaran offers five versions. There is a 3-cabin version with a very large owner’s hull with separate bathroom and work/office space area. The big news on the Bali 4.8 is the direct access to the starboard transom.

Room for a Football Team And of course, with Balis being so popular in the charter market, there are options for 4 , 5 and even 6-cabin versions (the latter with 6 en-suite heads) which is pretty unique in its class.

But where the 4.8 really comes into her own, is in offering for the first time on a multihull under 15 meters (50’) in length, 6 double cabins and 6 en-suite bathrooms. The charter companies make up two thirds of the sales of these boats. I am sure they will be “doing the math” on that one.

The open saloon, galley and cockpit area combine to make one huge light living area (we are in New York apartment territory here). The tall fridge freezer unit is placed in prime position between the saloon and the galley.

There is plenty of storage and worktop area, with clever design touches for waste storage, cooking, lounging and navigation.

Innovative Design The 4.8 follows her larger sister with the forward door to the foredeck, increasing the living space at anchor and calm conditions even further. The deck is really a 15 m² lounge with a couple of L-shaped benches and a table, plus a forward sun lounging area.

This rigid foredeck versus trampoline debate rages on, but Bali have a lot of arguments in their favour. The structure increases rigity of course, and in rough conditions, with the high bridgedeck and sculpted profile, the foredeck adds extra bouyancy to reduce pitching and push the bow through the chop.

And the communal living areas don’t stop there, as up top there is an extensive flybridge with another L-Shaped sofa behind the helm under the bimini, another table for al fresco dining and a sun lounge area.

Down below, the living space Wow Factor continues with direct access to the cockpit from the aft cabins. Up front, the two double cabins in either hull have double beds set athwartships with great views of the sea through the portholes. The forepeaks house bathrooms with separate showers.

Head to the Heads You can then order up to four other head compartments with integrated showers. There are two cabins in the centre of the hulls in the full charter version with two single bunk berths each, a configuration that is sure to be popular with families.

The two cabins aft have direct access to the cockpit, another innovation from the French builder.

Sailing & Handling

The helm station is up on the flybridge, which gives you great visibility on this boat, but the flipside is that you are a long way from the lines when you come into the marina. You are going to need some competent crew on this boat.

All the lines for sail handling are easy to reach though, as you are pretty close to the mast foot, but that boom is high. The winches seem low to me.

The high boom is the big draw back with the flybridge configuration. It means that the centre of effort on the mainsail is higher than the competition and it is not easy to access the mainsail if something goes wrong.

Save Budget for the Code 0 and Gennaker With the self tacking jib up (47 m² / 505 sq ft), she will comfortably hit 50% of true wind speed in light to moderate winds. Keep some budget back for a Code 0 (90 m² / 970 sq ft), and you will slice through the water faster in calmer conditions. In moderate conditions on a  beam reach, you should comfortably hit 8 to 10 knots and perhaps over- this boat is no slow coach for a cruising catamaran.

The hulls are nicely sculpted and you should quickly hit 8 knots of cruising speed under power, especially if you have ordered the twin 57HP engines. The standard spec is 45HP. Put this upgrade at the top of your options list.

The great thing about Bali is how they have raised the bar in cruising catamaran design with their innovative design touches. This catamaran is all about maximising comfort and space, and with 5 options to choose from, they are going to appeal to a very wide market with this boat.

The charter companies will love it as the configuration maxes out at 6 cabins. This is stiff competition for the Leopard 50 and the Lagoon 50.

Technical Specification

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Bali 4.2 Review

topRik experts talk about their own experience of testing the sailing catamaran Bali 4.2 from inside and at the sea with a large number of accompanying photo and schematics.

Traditionally, opinions about this boat are given by famous yachtsmen who write for authoritative yachting media, as well as an extensive video gallery to get the full impression.

In 2014, the French Catana Group launched the Bali Catamarans brand to expand its lineup with more affordable mass-produced models and attract the attention of new customers.

It didn't take long for the company to bring these ambitious plans to life. This is not surprising: Catana Group had at that time 30 years of experience in designing and building multihulls, so the new catamarans aroused significant interest among experts and buyers.

The construction of Bali catamarans is carried out at the facilities of the Catana Group located in Canet-en-Roussillon. The plant occupies an area of more than 36 thousand square meters, where there are four indoor workshops, an open-air warehouse for finished products and office premises. The company also owns an equipped embankment with access to the open sea, which allows testing in real conditions and easy transportation of finished catamarans by water to anywhere in the world.

The model range includes sailing cruising catamarans and motor multihulls made of fiberglass with a length of 12 to 17 meters. Bali 5.4 won Multihull in 2018 of the Year, and in 2020 the Catspace model was included in the list of award nominees.

Instead of the usual mesh for multihulls, all catamarans of the shipyard have a rigid bridge on the foredeck. This solution allows you to equip an additional recreation area and, more importantly, increase the strength of the structure. On some models, the superstructure is equipped with walk-throughs, so you can easily move around the boat.

The double-hull sailboat Bali 4.2 is the smallest vessel in the series of the same name, about 13 meters long and with a maximum sail area against the wind of 92 m². The DNA of this “baby” has retained all the genetic information of its family: the control station located at the level of the saloon roof, the huge space of the main deck and, of course, the famous Bali door to the saloon, which opens a through passage through it with access to the bow hard deck. Maximum comfort for everyone - guests and crew - is a consequence of such a thoughtful layout.

Besides, Bali 4.2 retains several configuration options regarding the layout of cabins and sailing equipment. We will talk about the cabins in detail later, and in terms of sailing wardrobe, you can operate with both the standard set and options:

• mainsail (rolled into a bag) – 50 m² ;
• staysail (automatic) – 35 m² ;
• mainsail (furling into a bag) – 51.8 m² (optional);
• Code Zero – 63 m² (optional);
• spinnaker – 103 m² (optional).

The design of the catamaran with fiberglass hulls has CE (A) certification, that is, it is intended for access to the open sea. The supply of fuel for equipment operation, fresh water and the volume of the refrigerator and freezer for food allow you to make long journeys on this sailing cruising catamaran.

Bali 4.2 is not the sportiest one, but it is a reliable sailboat for ocean cruises, which provides its passengers and crew with maximum comfort and pleasure from rest and work on board.

Features of Bali 4.2

• Brand: BALI Catamarans
• Hull type: Catamaran
• Overall length, m: 12.84
• Overall length, ft: 42
• Width, m: 7.07
• Draft, m: 1.22
• Displacement, T: 11.4
• Air draft, m: 18.78
• Water tanks, l: 860
• Exterior design (Architect): Xavier Faÿ
• Interior design: Lasta Design Studio
• CE Certification: A
• Mainsail type: Full battens
• Jib type: Self-tacking
• Mainsail area, m²: 52
• Jib area, m²: 38
• Power, HP: 30
• Fuel tanks, l: 640

Virtual tour

Review of bali 4.2 by toprik team.

topRik experts tested the sailing catamaran Bali 4.2 at Croatia Boat Show in May 2021 in Split, which preceded the Cannes Boat Show, where the world premiere of this cat took place.

First Impression

In the presence of catamarans of much larger sizes, our gaze immediately fell on this compact vessel for a double-hull with a helm station located on the saloon roof and a low boom.

The tall stems of the reverse-raked hulls are especially impressive. Typically, this design technique is used to improve seaworthiness by improving the hydrodynamics of the vessel. This also eliminates slamming, which is important for a catamaran with a solid rigid bow deck. Well, it adds aggressiveness to the exterior, which is usually not typical for a trawler-type vessel.

Glazing along almost the entire board with opening “windows” promised a lot of natural light in the cabins.

Powerful stainless-steel handrails rise above the already high sides - an excellent statement of the manufacturer’s concern for safety.

And this magnificent canopy over the cockpit, which is a continuation of the saloon roof and at the same time serves as the basis for a large seating area, promises that it is impossible to appreciate all the pleasant surprises at first glance. So, let's step up to the transom and begin our traditional tour of the Bali 4.2 sailing catamaran.

On the Transom

At the last photo above, part of the transom is covered by an inflatable boat, which is placed on and held on the transom platform, and is also launched into the water using a davit (stern lift). We assure you that the left side of the transom is a mirror image of the right one.

Three wide steps lead to the cockpit, the entrance to which is blocked by protective steel cables. The lowest widest step is used as a beach platform. Both beach islands can be equipped with a ladder to get into the water.

A convenient recess in the side ensures a free transition from the pier to the platform if the boat is moored sideways. This, of course, will surprise few people, but it once again confirms the shipyard’s commitment to comfort for passengers even in the smallest details.

The Cockpit

It can be disappointing due to its size compared to the rest of the catamaran. Yes, there is a large sofa and a canopy that protects from rain and bright sun, but... that’s all?

Remember, we said that at first glance all the surprises of Bali 4.2 will not be revealed. With the cockpit, that’s exactly the story. To discover its surprises, you need to open (or rather, lift up) the famous Bali door. There seems to be more than enough space now.

And the surprises of the cockpit itself have not all been discovered yet. Under this large sofa there is also quite a small locker hidden. In addition to the life raft, many other useful things can fit here.

On the starboard side, as on its predecessors, the Bali 4.2 has a grill. Although, when using it for its intended purpose, it is better to lower the door to the saloon so that the smell of frying fish or meat does not permeate the upholstery of the furniture.

Inside the Saloon

In many ways, the appearance of the interior, as well as the appearance of the cockpit, depends on the position of the Bali door. In the photo below you can compare the interior with the same furniture, but with the branded door lowered and raised.

The first option will perfectly protect you from bad weather, and on a sunny day with the door up, the sun and fresh air will fill the cabin.

Interior options depend on your needs and the purpose of the boat. You can keep the large sofa to starboard or turn it into a club nook with two armchairs and a floor-mounted wine cabinet between them.

A large cabinet hides a very spacious refrigerator at the top, and a large freezer at the bottom. The doors are equipped with reliable latches so that they cannot swing open when pushed.

In the middle of the large table there is a recess where you can safely place bottles of drinks so that they do not tip over during movement.

By the way, that device in the console above the TV is a way to access the control panel and control the movement of the catamaran from the saloon. And to the left of the refrigerators there is a chart table, the panel of which can also be equipped with the necessary equipment to monitor the operation of the catamaran equipment, communications and displays to which images from cameras installed on board will be transmitted, if necessary.

Further along the passage, to the left of the navigator's table, there is a galley, or more precisely, a real full-fledged home kitchen.

As you can see, the door between the galley and the skipper's table opens onto the foredeck, and the windows everywhere can be opened to combat kitchen odors if this bothers anyone.

Galley has L- and I-shaped countertops, hob with oven, bedside tables and storage shelves, sink and niche for a microwave oven. This shape of the work surfaces and the location of the galley parts across the passage allow several people to simultaneously prepare dishes without fear of colliding with or injuring each other.

And if you also take into account the “outdoor” grill, then the catamaran has everything you need to prepare food for a whole banquet, well, or for a family holiday or a grand party of best friends.

Review all the photographs to make sure that those present in the saloon, in addition to the above, have access to full natural ventilation and lighting, and that all parts of the furniture that are dangerous in contact do not have sharp or right angles that could cause an injury during rolling.

To give you an idea of the relationship between the parts of the main deck, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with its layout. And the schematic shows that we have not yet visited a very interesting area here...

On the Foredeck

The bow of the Bali 4.2 is unusual even for a cruising catamaran. Normally, between the bows of the hulls there are nets, or so-called trampolines. topRik experts can appreciate their absence from the boat, which makes it more suitable for charter purposes.

Another rarity for catamarans of this size is a through passage with a door from the saloon to the foredeck.

A solid hard deck made it possible to arrange a luxurious sunbathing area in the bow of the Bali 4.2 with the opportunity to dine al fresco.

It can easily accommodate 8 people, and if you get tired of sunbathing, you can use an awning that will reliably protect you from the sunrays.

A number of hatches in the bow of each hull indicate that the rooms below deck are also provided with fresh air and natural light. Shall we check? By the way, another surprise: the largest hatches are the entrance to the premises, which can be a crew cabin or a place to store fenders or other accessories.

Inside the Cabins

Here you also cannot do without pictures, since it is not easy to explain in words what configuration options the Bali 4.2 developers provide. Let's start with the standard, when one float is completely provided for the owner's cabin, and the second is divided into two identical double cabins.

All three cabins have king-size double beds and a private bathroom. Of course, the owner's cabin has more space, so in addition to the "bedroom" there is also a "living room" with a sofa, table and storage space. And the owner's bathroom is equipped with an isolated shower.

In the other two cabins, the bathrooms are also equipped with a shower, washbasin, toilet, cupboards and a mirror, and there is an opening porthole near the beds.

In the forepeaks, as we have already mentioned, you can place a sleeping area for the crew and a separate bathroom or use these rooms for storage.

Another version involves the presence of 4 double cabins with double beds and private bathrooms each.

All other versions are based on these two main ones, the difference lies in the use of forepeaks for different needs - cabin, bathroom, storage space.

On the Flybridge

It's time to get acquainted with the control station, which is located on an elevation in relation to the main deck - a ladder leads here from the cockpit.

On the roof of the saloon there is an excellent sunbathing area with two large sun loungers, as well as a sunbathing area with sun loungers for two more people - to the left of the helm station. There is access from both sides along the ladders.

By the way, the side decks, with the exception of the hatches in the bow, no longer have any additions that you can trip on or injure your foot - an absolutely flat non-slip surface.

The helm station has a large console on which all indicators can be displayed to monitor the operation of the yacht's equipment, communications and navigation equipment, including a marine display, compass, autopilot thruster, etc. To control the engines there is a solid lever, which is not often found on sailboats.

Manual and automatic winches are also located here at a convenient distance from the skipper.

From the skipper's position there is an excellent view of three points - the bows of both floats, and the stern on the port side. This is quite enough for comfortable and safe mooring and departure.

An automatic jib and two electric winches, which are placed almost under the skipper’s post, make it very easy to control the boat. For an experienced sailor, setting and retracting the Bali 4.2 sails will not be difficult, taking into account the low position of the boom.

Since we had no goal of setting speed records, we checked the boat's control conditions, its maneuverability and obedience of the rudders to the helm. We were pleased with all the parameters.

We started testing in 7-8 knot winds and were able to achieve a speed of 5-6 knots under a standard sail plan. And when the wind increased to 15-17 knots, we were able to increase the speed to 7 knots.

Well, such results in light winds are quite enough to determine the potential of the Bali 4.2 catamaran. It is, of course, not for speed, but you are guaranteed comfort in driving.

Advantages of Bali 4.2

In addition to the fact that Bali 4.2 has all the advantages of sailing catamarans - high stability, a large area for comfortable rest and work, the developers took into account the small size of the catamaran and “shortened” the mast in order to completely eliminate the already meager possibilities of capsizing on waves and in strong winds, if the sailing rig area is used to the maximum.

There are recorded cases of ocean crossings on Bali 4.2, in particular, Alicante - Tenerife and Tenerife - Gibraltar. During the latter, the wind reaches a speed of 24 knots.

Safe navigation is also ensured by the materials from which the hulls and decks are made: this is a fiberglass sandwich with a balsa core into which resins are injected under high pressure to fill all the pores to prevent osmosis. Lightness and high strength characterize these composite sandwich panels made using innovative technology.

Comfort of life on board is ensured for both guests and crew. A conveniently organized workplace for the skipper and assistants, places for rest and lunch, sunbathing and swimming - everything is provided here so that people do not experience problems either as passengers or as part of the crew.

One of the smallest models in this line has all the advantages of larger Bali catamarans, including technical features of equipment, seaworthiness, comfort level, habitability and equipment.

At the same time, it is relatively inexpensive with a high level of comfort.

Reviews of Bali 4.2 from Professionals

We present the opinion of two famous yachting journalists who posted their reviews of the Bali 4.2 catamaran before its premiere (Robert H.Perry from Sailing Magazine) and after testing it at sea (Emmanuel Van Deth from Yacht Style).

Robert wrote his review before the world premiere of Bali 4.2, that is, his review does not contain test results at sea. He presented this catamaran as the brainchild of naval architects and designers Olivier Poncin and Xavier Fay with interior design by Lasta Design Studio, adding that this cruising cat can comfortably accommodate three couples.

The author immediately warned that assessing the aesthetics of any boat is very subjective, so he limited himself to describing the exterior and interior with virtually no value judgments in terms of external attractiveness.

He identified the complex design of hulls with long chines, stem-to-transom lines and short chord keels as optimal.

Speaking about the displacement of the boat, Robert concluded that this boat was created not for speed, but for comfortable relaxation.

The author admitted that his interest was aroused by the organization of the main deck, where there are two cockpits in the bow and stern, as well as an additional seating area above the bimini in the area of the helm station.

Robert described in detail the configuration of the main deck, mentioned several versions of the cabin configuration and noted a short rig on this cat, linking this with ensuring greater safety for passengers and crew.

In conclusion, he admitted that although he designed a catamaran himself and sailed on several, he never went on a long cruising voyage cats.

Emmanuel at the beginning of his review talks about the history of the Bali line, the first model of which was presented at Cannes Yachting Festival 2014. He noted the high productivity of the shipyard and that this productivity is inherited from parent company Catana Group.

The author noted that despite the similarity of Bali 4.2 with its predecessors, there are also differences that can be noticed in the design of the mast, which has a positive effect on the aerodynamics of the kata and simplifies the installation of standing rigging.

He called lifting Bali door iconic, describing its functions and capabilities. Continuing the main deck theme, Emmanuel started with two large sugarscoops and, gradually moving from the cockpit to the foredeck, dwelled in detail on the features of the configuration and design, including the helm station. He calls the helm station with a seating area on the roof of the saloon a flybridge.

An interesting point was noted by the author: the total deck area of the catamaran (almost 80 m²) is 10% larger than that of models of the same length from other manufacturers.

Concluding the description of the bow, Emmanuel noted the convenient organization of anchorage.

The author paid great attention to the interior configuration with a large dining area and chart table, noting that in some places the ceiling height exceeds 208 cm, and the volume of the refrigerator with freezer is 326 liters.

Next, the yachtsman focused on the configuration of cabins and bathrooms, noting that several versions of berth organization are possible.

The rest of the review is devoted to testing the catamaran Bali 4.2 at sea, and the author regrets that the lack of real wind did not allow the sailing rig to show itself fully.

Video Reviews of Bali 4.2

Best videos we could find, demonstrating the capabilities of this yacht in full.

First, catamaran tour with lovely commentary:

The walkthrough from Bali Catamarans:

Quick tour around the boat:

16 minutes of detailed footage on board with explanations:

Another detailed walkthrough from ActuNautique:

The very comfortable and spacious double-hull sailing yacht Bali 4.2 was announced as a catamaran for the charter business, and it, of course, meets all the requirements for such a purpose - inexpensive, comfortable, zoned, with many places for relaxation and entertainment.

But we think that there will be sailors who will want to have such a cat for personal use for:

• a comfortable and safe family holiday at sea;
• long stays on board with passages in coastal waters;
• a comfortable cruise in a large group of friends with the opportunity to warm up with the sails;
• first experience of sailing a catamaran.

Where to Buy Bali 4.2 at a Bargain Price

Contact topRik experts and they will tell you in detail where to buy Bali 4.2 at a good price, and will also help you do it without much hassle and nervous tension.

To get started, use all the bonuses that you are entitled to from our trading platform: use the free configuration calculator and configure your version of Bali 4.2. At this stage, you have the right to free consultations with our experts.

With further cooperation, you can count on full support in the process of searching and purchasing a boat, or you can entrust the entire process to our specialists - from negotiations with the manufacturer and paperwork to checking the boat’s equipment on site and transporting it to the specified location.

Send us a message at [email protected] , call the specified phone number or use the feedback form (Contacts section).

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Bali 4.2 packs signature features into 42ft

• October 6, 2021

A world premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, the Bali 4.2 sail cat slips between the Catspace and upcoming 4.4 to offer remarkable living spaces, highlighted by an expansive foredeck, flybridge lounging and the remarkably roomy saloon created by the signature ‘Bali door’. By Emmanuel Van Deth.

The 4.2 is among five sailing models Bali has launched in the past two years

It has been seven years since Bali began to make a name for itself by debuting its first models at the 2014 Cannes Yachting Festival. The DNA of the brand remains unchanged: maximum volume and pleasure, ease of use and disappearance of the internal/external divide on demand.

As for the new models, they’re being rolled out rapidly. Aside from the flagship 5.4, the other five sailing yachts in the current range have all been released in the last two years. After the Catspace Sail (Review Issue 56) premiered at Boot Dusseldorf last year, the Bali 4.8 (Review, Issue 59) and 4.6 followed.

This year, the French shipyard has splashed the 4.2, which had its world premiere at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival, while the 4.4 is the next addition to the modern fleet.

Bali performance is inherited from parent company Catana Group

Comparing the new 4.2 to predecessors like the 4.1 and 4.3, there have been few changes to the coachroof: the nacelle is still topped by a large roof overhang. The hulls have numerous openings integrated into a black reveal – note the double function of longitudinal reinforcement and rain shield. The hulls feature bows that are stubby and inverted.

However, for those who feel the different Balis look too alike to be easily identified, you should be able to recognise the 4.2: it’s currently the brand’s only model with a spreader-less rig. The aluminium mast is slightly bigger in fore-and-aft section to ensure optimum stiffness with a pair of cap-shrouds and lowers.

The French builder’s 4.2 measures 42ft 2in in length

This formula has the advantage, at comparable weight and cost, of simplifying the setting-up of the standing rigging and improving aerodynamics. Some might suggest that the windage of a Bali is large enough that airflow through the rig might not make much difference … well, it does.

EXPANSIVE DECK SPACE

It’s tricky to explain the aft cockpit as it’s really an integrated part of the nacelle. On the 4.2, the iconic lifting ‘Bali door’ is 11ft wide and 7ft 2in tall and opens or closes the living space on demand, depending on the conditions. In closed mode, there’s enough room to move around outside and even enjoy the bench seat.

The 4.2 has two large sugarscoops, joined by an uninterrupted platform, overhung by tilting stainless steel davits. This is also where you access the engine compartments, where the liferaft is stowed and there are lockers here, too. On the starboard side, a plancha-style barbecue can be fitted.

Options include a plancha-style barbecue in the aft cockpit

The flybridge is accessed by steps moulded into both sides. Like the side-decks – minimum 2ft wide – moving about on deck is made safe by numerous handrails and guard wires.

The sail manoeuvring station, lower down, is equipped with a battery of clutches and three winches. The two on the outside are cleverly angled to receive the gennaker or spinnaker sheets. The whole system is operational and intuitive. Only the port winch is a little bit far away.

The helm bimini is somewhat low when standing, but this helps maintain the mainsail area, which remains easily accessible. The bench seat can accommodate two adults, then there’s the central lounge pad and the aft sundeck, allowing for a total of six people up top.

Classic Bali features include the forward door and the solid foredeck

The enormous solid foredeck features a huge, almost full-beam sunbathing area plus a sunken cockpit with table that connects to the forward saloon door. The total deck area is 852sqft, almost 80sqm, which is 10 per cent more than competitors’ models of this length.

Anchoring operations are well managed with a recessed and integrated bow roller, a large chain locker and a powerful windlass. A cut-out is provided in the deck to monitor the anchor and chain. A very deep locker has been moulded out under the benches. A 5ft 5in watertight door provides direct access to the nacelle, while an 8in sill protects the interior from any unwanted water ingress

OPEN INDOORS

When all the doors, the forward hatch and the lateral bay windows aft are open, the living area does not give the feeling of being inside, which is one of the major appeals of Bali models.

When the ‘Bali door’ is raised, the interior enjoys extra space, natural light and ventilation

In a few seconds, however, the saloon can be enclosed. The headroom is generous, varying between 6ft 6in and 6ft 10in.

Six people can sit at the dining table – two sizes are available – without feeling crowded and eight people would still have elbow room. To starboard, there’s the option of two comfortable lounge chairs or a sofa and forward is the huge, 326-litre refrigerator/freezer unit.

Forward, down a small step, is the chart table to starboard, the foredeck door and the galley to port. The excellent galley has an L-shaped countertop forward and a long counter with sink in the centre, with enormous storage space under both.

The large fridge has a 326-litre capacity

The model presented to us in Canet-en-Roussillon, Bali’s home on France’s south coast, featured the three-cabin version with the port hull dedicated to the owner, while a four-cabin version is also available. Four wide steps on each side lead down to the hulls.

The owner’s suite includes a bench seat and a dressing table/desk, with the bathroom forward. The bed is 5ft 7in wide and it’s the same in the other aft cabin, while the bed in the forward starboard cabin is 5ft 1in wide. The two guest cabins have their own head and sink but share a shower. The forepeaks can also be fitted out, with a berth to starboard and head to port.

Situated forward of the saloon, the roomy galley features counters and storage on three sides

SETTING SAIL

During our sea trial, there was no wind as we cleared port, but we had a residual swell out of the southeast, so we began by testing the engines. Our test boat was equipped with the optional 45hp Yanmars rather than the standard 30hps.

The upper deck provides plenty of lounging space

I set the speed of both engines to 2,200rpm, which gave a boat speed of just over seven knots with a consumption of 6.4 litres per hour. Counting a safety reserve of 15 per cent, the Bali 4.2 could cruise over 600 miles at this speed.

No matter how hard the Bali is sailed, whether into waves or with them on the quarter, it’s clear that the careful structure, deep hull ribs and integral deck ensure solid rigidity – and the absence of squeaking.

In the three-cabin layout, the port hull is dedicated to the owner’s suite

Passage through the water is smooth when sailing, without the nacelle making contact. The wind eventually settled in and the gennaker was unfurled to accompany the main. Despite the swell trying its best to unhook the sails from the wind, the Bali managed to make four knots in the little six-knot breeze, although obviously more wind is needed for the 4.2’s fine hulls to demonstrate their potential.

On the other hand, good passage though the water bodes well for comfortable passage making and we appreciated the direct, rather soft feel to the helm. The self-tacking jib and the double-purchase system for the mainsheet are simple and work perfectly.

The 4.2 is among Bali’s six sailing models from 40-54ft

For its 42ft length and 23ft-plus beam, the 4.2 offers remarkable space and comfort. It’s almost like being at home, with its huge social areas, spacious galley and comfortable cabins, while a rigid, safe platform and fine hulls will allow for nice sailing in medium airs. www.bali-catamarans.com

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Bali 5.4 Review: Our Favorite Yacht Charter Catamaran

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Bali 5.4 Boat Review

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: August 20, 2020

To describe the shared living area aboard the Bali 5.4 catamaran —a tilt-and-lift door between cockpit and saloon all but eliminates the distinction ­between indoors and out—a builder’s representative said that the open space created by the lack of interior bulkheads means the boat will be enjoyed “no matter the weather.” 

I was, in fact, able to test that theory a few days after the close of the U.S. Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, when our Boat of the Year judges and I returned to the Bali for sea trials in monsoon-like ­conditions. After a thorough dousing (but very enjoyable trick at the wheel) atop the flybridge, I headed below, where, covered by the Bimini, all was as dry as a bone. And yes, the surroundings were indeed enjoyable. The ride was smooth and comfy, like a big old American Buick on a cobblestone street, but with Euro styling and bunks to sleep in.

At 55 feet LOA, the 5.4 is Bali’s flagship. The boats are built in France by the Catana Group, which also produces performance-oriented ­Catana catamarans. The Bali brand was launched in 2014 both to serve the charter market and for private owners as well. ­Catana CEO Olivier Poncin is responsible for the concept, and naval architect Xavier Fay, the engineering.

Built using essentially the same production methods as the Catanas (if not the same exotic Kevlar and carbon fibers), the Balis’ fiberglass hulls, decks, and Biminis are infused and foam-cored. The Balis do without the daggerboards that are trademarks of their sportier cousins; instead, short keels on either hull prevent leeway and provide protection in case of a beaching.

Because of its size, a number of options are offered on the 5.4. An owner can have four, five or six en suite guest ­cabins; forepeak accommodations for captain and mate are also ­available. The six-cabin boat we sailed carries a price tag of right around $1.2 million.

I liked the layout of the guest cabins. The aft ones are entered through their own companionways in the cockpit. I found them both to be a bit tight sizewise, but then again, you’re going to be in them only to sleep. Stairs forward in the saloon lead to the ­midship and forward cabins. Besides hatches overhead, each ­cabin has a port in the hull, and the ­double berths are laid out ­athwartships, so everyone gets a view of the great outdoors.

With the potential for 12 charter guests, plus crew, the 5.4 offers numerous places to congregate. Let’s start at the bow, and take a little walking tour. A feature introduced on this model is a forward door in the saloon that opens onto the foredeck and its forward cockpit and table. Rather than trampoline netting between the bows, the Balis have fiberglass from hull to hull, with lots of cushions for sitting, napping and sunning. 

Strolling aft, stairs on ­either side of the cabin lead to the flybridge, where the helm and sail controls are located to ­starboard under a soft top. Winches are close at hand for taming the two mainsheets led to blocks set aft on either side of the Bimini, the ­single self-tacking jib sheet and the sheets for the screecher that’s set and flown on a sprit. The large expanse to port and ­behind the wheel awaits those along for ride, with a pair of tables surrounded by seats, a sink and fridge, and a large ­cushioned area aft for lounging.

In the cockpit below, there is yet more space to congregate before heading back ­into the saloon, where a long ­table with a bench and folding chairs occupies two-thirds of the port side; a well-stocked U-shaped galley is tucked in up forward. Opposite is a nav station/control center, more seating aft, and a home-style fridge and freezer in between. As I said, there are lots of ­places to congregate. 

To be honest, though, it was the Bali’s sailing performance that got my attention. As I mentioned, the breeze was snarly—in the mid to high teens, with gusts above that. We started out with a reef in the main and the self-tacking jib, and saw speeds in 6.3-knot range. Yes, we were probably undercanvased, but still, the helm was lively and I was able to feather up and still ­maintain a decent pace with the wind closer to 35 to 40 ­degrees ­apparent—not always a ­productive point of sail for a big cruising cat. Later, reaching with the screecher flying, the speedo jumped to 8 knots, and I saw a 9 in one or two of the puffs.

In my notes, I had one other thing underlined: party. Yes, the Bali is well-suited for that too.

Mark Pillsbury is CW ’s editor.

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Bali 4.6 Review: Best in Class

Successor to the beloved Bali 4.5, the new 4.6 inherits more than the design. Soft, gentle exterior lines, modern feel and space that speaks of the yard’s desire to charm larger families and the charter industry

God of wind remained deaf to our prayers that day: throughout our sea trial, the waters of Kaštela Bay remained calm, and the 10-knots wind ultimately dissipated altogether. In the past few decades, the multi-hull market grew tenfold, and Bali have sailed along with that growth, climbing to the top of the segment in mere seven years.

Bali 4.6 layout

On this latest model, like on many before her, it’s the space that counts the most. Bali 4.6 has a lounge on the bow, and garage doors whose opening turns the indoor lounge and the cockpit into one giant leisure space. The table and the adjacent L-shaped sofa seat ten, and another sofa seats four.

Catamaran with space enough for everybody

The unit we tested had five cabins and four heads, ideal for charter , (there is an owner’s version, with two cabins and a master that takes up the entire lower deck), and 95 sq.m. of space to boot – so make sure you call all your friends. On Bali 4.6, there’s space enough for everybody.

In the left hull, below deck there is a double cabin with Pullman beds, ideal for kids, a single, and the head they share, while in the right hull there are two spacious cabins and their respective heads. All cabins are clean and elegant in design, furnished and decorated in materials and fabrics that make prolonged stay at sea as comfortable as possible, instead of forcing luxury.

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The aft cabin has a full-size bed, a private head, plenty of storage space, and portholes for daylight and fresh air. The lounge is functional above all, furnished with an additional navigator’s desk, and the galley is L-shaped, fully equipped and placed ideally to serve the bow and the lounge.

In the galley, there’s more than enough storage space, both in the cabinets and in the floor compartment. The cooler is home-sized, which we’re sure will be appreciated – there never seems to be enough cooling space on any yacht. The lounge has sliding windows that open toward the aft and the bow, making it a very open space well connected with almost all other parts of the yacht.

For long cruises and relaxing times

Designed as a yacht for long cruises and relaxing times, Bali 4.6 is basically covered in sun beds, sofas and giant cushions, which somehow doesn’t stop the flow of foot traffic from the bow all the way to the aft.

From the aft, stairs lead onto the fly bridge, so good every builder should take inspiration from it. Even while sitting, the skipper enjoys exemplary visibility in all directions, and while standing, they can manage all the maneuvers without any help from the aft. The command console on the fly deck is perfectly suitable for docking in harbors, as well.

Easy and simple

On the fly, there is a large table and sofa combo, and behind them, the most attractive sun bed aboard. On the same deck, solar panels are basically invisible, but serve their purpose providing up to 440 W.

Just like on all other models in the range, on Bali 4.6 everything is easy and simple. Raising the 120 sq.m. sails with only two pairs of hands is not only possible, but effortless, with the help of a electric winch. More ambitious sailors can add a Code Zero or a gennaker, just as easily deployed.

Bali 4.6 sailing and handling

On our sea trial, the Bali 4.6 reached 5 knots of top speed with 10 knots of wind, which for her length is quite decent. Still, the conditions were simply too unfavorable to test the unit properly. Powered by two 57-hp Yanmar engines, Bali 4.6 reached 6 knots of speed at 2000 rpm (ideal cruising speed), and at 2500 rpm speeds up to 8 knots. We found the deck safe and functional, with wide and well protected side passages, and were most delighted by the bow lounge, easily accessible from the interior.

Once again Catana and CEO Olivier Poncin have created a modern multi-hull with plenty of appeal. Inspired by the popular Bali 4.5, the new Bali 4.6 charms with soft, gentle exterior lines, and modern feel and space that speaks of the yard’s desire to attract larger families and the catamaran charter industry .

Easy to handle, pleasant to stay on and boasting some unique designer choices, Bali 4.6 follows a check-list of features and functions an affordable cruising multi-hull should have.

Text Filip Bubalo

Photos Boris Kačan

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Bali 4.3 MY

The ambitious young brand from the Catana Group is making a foray into the coveted and not-always-easy power cat sector: is it a test drive, something they fancy trying, are they just bluffing? We were keen to find out more after the first presentation of this 4.3 MY at the International Multihull Show back in April...

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Like all the big manufacturers, Bali is addressing a fairly large market - 40 to 54 feet at the moment, and more particularly, the 40/45-foot sector. This strategy has been successful in their sailboat range, and in this context, Bali is proposing for this first production power cat, a (relatively) modest size of 43 feet. The Bali 4.3 MY is based on the 4.3, albeit heavily redesigned. In 2017, initial tests of a Bali power cat prototype powered by Nanni motors, showed very encouraging results (performance / fuel economy) with Xavier Faÿ's hulls. We took to the water to see if the 4.3 MY has inherited this DNA.

Successful lines  

It took two years’ work to get from the prototype to the final version, but the effort is proving successful. The external design of a motor catamaran is a tricky business: too much "trawler", and it no longer corresponds to the demand; too avant-garde, and it won’t flow correctly. On the 4.3 MY, the rigid foredeck is fully apparent, and the high, clear tunnel is a key asset for sailing in rough seas. Turning the original sailboat version into the 4.3 MY is a real transformation of the product into a brand-new boat that perfectly follows the codes of...

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Bali vs. Lagoon: Which Catamaran Is Better?

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Look out over any body of water, and you will see people enjoying the great outdoors. From private lakes to the open sea, from sailing for a day to living permanently on a yacht, the water calls us to come and play. This is the easy part, now comes the difficulty of the many decisions that need to be made before you can call yourself captain of a catamaran. So it has come down to two choices Bali or Lagoon, which is better?

A Lagoon catamaran is often a better choice than Bali. Bali cats are sleeker and lean more on innovative materials and design. Lagoon may be bulky, but the brand is one of the most popular and a reason for that is they listen to customer feedback when making design decisions. 

In this article, you will learn more about catamaran brands : Bali and Lagoon. We will also discuss the following:

• Why choose a Bali or Lagoon catamaran and how to choose between them
• Consider the pros and cons associated with each model
• Determine the safety of catamarans in general

Why Choose a Bali or Lagoon Catamaran?

If you are reading this article, you have likely decided it is time to stop dreaming and purchase your yacht. You selected a catamaran as your vessel of choice, either because of its “flat ride” or the incredible amount of living space on board. 

But you may be stuck on the decision of which brand is worth your investment. Should you go for the relatively “New Kid on the Block,” Bali, or the “Tried and True” Lagoon?

Both manufacturers offer safe, sea-worthy vessels, and both brands improve their ship designs frequently. Bali focuses on being innovative in terms of materials and design, whereas Lagoon responds to customer feedback as it works on new vessels. Both have been in the industry long enough to have a solid following and reputation.

Therefore, in the end, it really is a matter of personal preference in terms of desired features, preferred construction, and ultimate appearance as both brands are widely known and have solid reputations for building safe, sea-worthy vessels. The good news is that buyers can feel confident purchasing from either Bali or Lagoon.

Bali Catamarans: A Basic Overview

Bali catamarans are built in France at the Cantana Yard. Olivier Poncin and designer Xavier Fay came up with the new and innovative catamaran design and launched it in 2014. Still dubbed as the “new kid on the block,” Bali is the most unconventional of the two catamaran brands reviewed here, but that is precisely why it should be given serious consideration.

According to the Catamaran Guru , Poncin and Fay’s design changes have been well-received both by the industry and loyal consumers, mainly because no design change impacted performance or seaworthiness, as the catamaran looks so good both at sea and in the marina. Buyers respond well to the sleek design since, typically, catamarans had been bulky.

Building Materials and Foredeck Design

One marked improvement Poncin and Fay brainstormed is that they upgraded the building materials in the Bali catamaran. By doing so, they improved the sailing experience in terms of living space.

One way they accomplished this additional living space was by removing the trampoline and implementing a solid foredeck . Thanks to Bali’s choice of building material for this area, they can create more interior space without adding excessive weight or compromising seaworthiness.

In many ways, this solid foredeck returns to the early days when the Prout family built catamarans in England in the 1950s. Their reasoning for the solid foredeck was that although it increased weight, it provided rigidity, which increases the vessel’s structure. Though they are no longer building catamarans today, Poncin and Fay improved on the Prout family’s idea, making the solid foredeck a newly respected option in the industry.

Many in the catamaran industry question this solid foredeck because they fear the weight that it adds to the ship. However, the Catamaran Guru exposes that this design choice adds buoyancy, and he explains that many brands have been slowly moving in this direction for years.

Still, buyers’ greatest concern is whether a solid foredeck will shed water as effectively as nets do. Nets have been used for so long that accepting this solid foredeck is difficult. However, Bali did not simply change the foredeck. They also changed the catamaran’s drainage system, making the foredeck able to shed water in under 12 seconds. 

Want to understand why catamarans capsize?

Building Materials and the Hull

Bali also sets itself apart because it uses a closed-cell foam for the hull’s core rather than a balsa wood core. This choice makes the boat lighter and faster but does not compromise its sailing comfort or safety. One of the few complaints about catamarans, in general, is that they cannot achieve the upwind speed that monohulls can, but this lighter material increases upwind speed potential, at least marginally.

In the end, however, the catamaran’s ability to provide a smoother ride with little yawing , which occurs when the vessel swings from side to side on its vertical axis or heeling , which is when the boat tips from side to side, appears to silence the speed argument. Most catamaran owners need speed to outrun storms. But other than that, they are typically not racing, so comfort trumps speed for most catamaran cruisers.

Pros of Bali Catamarans

In this section, we’ll analyze the advantages of choosing a Bali catamaran.

One of the primary reasons many purchase a Bali is the sheer beauty of the vessel. The outside is elegant and sleek, which is a design trait Bali is known for. You will undoubtedly make a statement when you dock, but the sleek design is even more stunning on the water. The outward appearance is unquestionably high-end and a high selling point. 

Other features include:

• Five configurations to choose from – with this many, there’s one for every personality, and these configurations work equally well with Charter and Owner use vessels
• Comfort – plenty of living space both inside and outside
• Plenty of storage space – including cabinets
• Direct access from saloon to forward cockpit
• Holds up to 315 gallons (1192.4 liters) of freshwater (17 days of water for one person)
• Holds up to 315 gallons (1192.4 liters) of fuel
• The helm station is on the flybridge for excellent visibility
• Many models have six cabins, each with a private bathroom

Cons of Bali Catamarans

• Many reviewers complain that while the outside of the vessel is high-end, the inside features, such as the stove and refrigerator, look plain, indicating a lower price point.
• The height of the boom suggests that it will be challenging to reach the mainsail if there is a problem.
• Though the helm station (flybridge setup) offers excellent visibility, the tradeoff is that you are too far from the lines when you come into the marina, so you will need a crew to assist you.

What is a flybridge and what are the pros and cons?

Lagoon Catamarans: A Basic Overview

Lagoon Catamarans are also constructed in France and are designed by Marc van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot-Prevost . Many reviewers say this team is highly responsive to customer input, and they continually create better vessels using consumer feedback, which makes buying this brand enticing.

Lagoon has been designing and building sea-worthy vessels since 1984, and while their initial designs were monohulls, their longevity in the market earns confidence with consumers. In 1996, the designers began to focus on comfort based on industry feedback and designed and produced catamarans. Though their first catamaran models were considered “bulky,” they responded to the feedback and created sleeker models to appeal to their base.

Lagoon’s Design Focus

Lagoon’s focus on comfort and design has not caused a decrease in their dedication to the vessel’s safety performance. The designers were considering customer feedback with their new designs. Previously, the Lagoon brand was often described as slow like a floating container and considered behind in terms of style, so they began updating their models and have several elegant designs available these days. 

Resale Value

Another good selling point for Lagoon is that these vessels tend to hold their resale value quite well, probably due to the trusted Lagoon name etched into its design. However, it is worth noting that according to the Catamaran Guru, the three-bedroom models seem to hold value better, but he reiterates that the four-bedroom models resell well too.

Pros of Lagoons

• A wide variety of models and configurations are available
• Plenty of living and lounging space
• Often cost less than other catamarans in the same class
• Lagoon is a mainstay in the boat-building industry
• The fuel capacity of the Lagoon Sixty 5 is 1450 gallons (5488.84 liters)
• Water storage capacity is about 295 gallons (1116.7 liters, 7 days of water for one person)

Cons of Lagoons

• Though the builders are focusing on a sleeker design, Lagoons are still seen as “bulky.” 
• Limited storage space for food – some newer models have two refrigerators, though.
• Many models have only one way to get to the helm.
• Lagoons are known to be slow on the water

General Safety of Catamarans

Regardless of the brand, many new sailers are concerned that catamarans are prone to capsize in strong winds or rough waters. In severe storms, irrespective of the vessel, the sailor needs to be skilled. Therefore, an unskilled sailor may be safer in a monohull only because a catamaran cannot “self-right” as a monohull can. However, due to the catamaran’s design, the wind has to hit the catamaran at rarely seen speeds to have an effect.

A catamaran is also reefed by a wind chart clearly showing when to put in a reef, follow those instructions and you will be safe.

Even though the catamaran cannot “self-right,” modern catamarans are designed with a “positive buoyancy,” which means that if a storm causes the boat to capsize, it will not sink. In this case, people are safer in the catamaran because they can use it for shelter until help arrives.

Still worried about capsizing? read my article on why catamarans capsize and ill think you’ll change your mind!

The good news is that most catamarans can outrun dangerous weather. Well, that’s as long as the crew is paying attention to weather reports; therefore, capsizing will not be an issue you have to worry about when going for a relaxing voyage.

Engine failure is another safety concern for all sea vessels. Fortunately, catamarans have two diesel engines, unlike monohulls, so an engine failure in a catamaran is not catastrophic, and it’s rarely more than an expensive inconvenience. 

Want to better understand the differences between monohulls (classic sailboats) and catamarans ( two hulled sailboats) I recommend that you read this article!

Award-Winning Catamarans

Bali and Lagoon are more than brands with sound reputations and incredible designs. They both also create award-winning yachts. The industry responded so well to Bali’s sleek design that in 2019, the Bali 5.4 won the Multihull World’s 2019 Multihull of the Year Award. 

Likewise, in 2021 the industry responded to Lagoon’s attention to the design change just as favorably. The response was so great, in fact, that in 2021, the Lagoon Sixty 5, Lagoon’s most recent model, was nominated for Multihull World’s Yacht of the Year Award.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice comes down to a matter of preference. Some consumers are primarily concerned with the yacht’s resale value, hoping to get some money back when they upgrade to a newer model in the future. Others purchase with no thought of selling the ship in the future. The latter group is often more concerned with comfort, design, and efficiency. The former will be most concerned with how the yacht will retain its value.

Here are a couple of things to consider when choosing between Bali and Lagoon:

If Resale Value Is a Primary Concern

If you like to upgrade every few years or only purchase a catamaran for a short-term excursion, such as a one- to five-year temporary home, resale value may be a deciding factor in the brand you choose. If this is the case, be certain to purchase a yacht designed for owner use rather than charter use. Bali and Lagoon offer each type.

And since Lagoon tend to hold value a little better, i would go with them. Gabo of CatamaranFreedom.com

Just like any other motorized vehicle, catamarans lose value through use. If you’re purchasing a used yacht, to begin with, chartering yachts will not have the resale value that privately owned vessels will. However, most multihull units maintain a better resale value than monohulls. This is partly because there are fewer multihulls in the resale market while it is saturated with monohulls. 

Resale value should remain the same between brands that are built for the same use and receive the same care and maintenance.

If Visuals Are a Primary Concern

Most people find that the Bali design offers a better visual design than Lagoon, especially the flybridge design with the magnificent outlook over the water. However, if appeal to a non-sailing audience is important, Bali is definitely the way to go. Lagoon is famous within the sailing community, but most landlubbers appear to think a Bali cat is more attractive.

How To Choose Between a Bali and Lagoon

Charter a cruise aboard a bali and lagoon.

The best way to know for sure which is the better catamaran brand for you is to sail on both a Bali and Lagoon. However, spending an average cost of $8,000 per week seems like an unlikely option for most people.

How much does chartering a catamaran cost?

Talk to Bali and Lagoon Owners

The second-best thing to do is talk to the owners of each catamaran brand. Most owners purchased either a Bali or Lagoon for specific reasons and are usually excited to share their knowledge with prospective buyers. They will be better salespeople than anyone on a yacht yard because they will tell you both the positives and what they wish were different on their yacht.

Participate in Forums

In the absence of knowing someone who owns one of these brands, many forums, such as the Cruisers Forum , are available for you to join and participate in. It is always amazing to learn how little we know about a subject before diving into it, and owning a catamaran is no different. It is impossible to see what you do not yet know about catamarans, so knowing what questions to ask by studying the forums makes you a more confident buyer.

Research Through Blogs, Vlogs, and YouTube

Lastly, the internet is fortunately filled with blogs and vlogs of people who make money sharing their experiences with catamarans.

Reading blogs and watching travel videos are fun ways to feel that you are on the boat yourself. And these writers and videographers enjoy giving a first-hand view of the subtle differences, potential problems, and coveted features that you might not otherwise know to ask about when you go to purchase your vessel. They are also skilled at showing their mistakes so that we do not make the same ones. 

Purchasing the yacht is a commitment. While there are customers loyal to each brand, selecting either the Bali or Lagoon models should be done confidently because both brands have excellent reputations. If you want even more help to guide your decision, read catamaran blogs, watch vlogs, and ask questions on forums. 

• The Moorings: A Beginners Guide to Catamarans
• Catamaran Guru: The Argument for or Against Bali Catamarans
• Katamarans: Bali 4.8 Catamaran Review
• The International Yachting Media: Bali 4.0: The Catamaran Designed by Poncin   
• Multihulls World: New and Used Technical Specifications Lagoon Sixty Five
• Cruisers Forum: 380 Lagoon Pros and Cons
• Catamaran Guru: Bali Catamaran Solid Foredeck: Great Feature or Bad Idea?
• Multihulls: Multihull of the Year

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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