The Bali 5.2 is the flagship model of the French brand, built by Chantier Catana, which retains the essence of previous models, where efficient use of space is the primary focus. It is clearly geared toward the charter market, with configurations offering up to six cabins, but those who need plenty of space can opt for the three-cabin version, which is generously sized and features various social areas. The “open space” concept on a boat approximately 16 meters long and 8 meters wide translates into something very similar to a multi-story luxury apartment, with every floor offering endless ocean views.
The saloon is the main deck, the large covered common area that, when the stern door is opened, connects the cockpit to the bow and provides access to the cabins. In fact, the bow area represents the most radical departure from the idyllic image of sailing on a catamaran and “floating in a hammock”: instead, the first few meters from the bow and practically the entire beam are dedicated to sunbathing, with a more sheltered area on a lower level where a table and two L-shaped sofas have been arranged to accommodate about ten people. As an added benefit, stiffening this area strengthens the overall structure against the normal torsion of a multihull.
THE BALI 5.2 IS THE FLAGSHIP OF THE FRENCH BRAND
The link between the bow and the stern is the galley, located right at the base of the mast, in the area of the boat with the least movement, and laid out in a U-shape opening toward port; its size is commensurate with the number of people who will be living aboard in the charter version or, considering that in Category D it is possible to accommodate up to 40 people, with a large group of guests. Ideally, a small group of friends can cross the Atlantic well-stocked with food and with enough space to store and prepare it.
A particularly welcome feature, given the boat’s ocean-going design, is the forward-facing chart table, which occupies a prime location. The ability to open the large saloon hatch ensures excellent cross-ventilation, which even helps ventilate the below-deck cabins, especially while at anchor or in port; when sailing, however, it is advisable to close it to achieve greater structural rigidity.
The cabins vary greatly depending on the number of modules chosen, but all are arranged athwartships and enjoy plenty of natural light. Whoever is at the helm will always be in good company, as aft of the helm station there is another sun deck area with a low table—a true terrace overlooking the sea that allows you to gaze a little further out on the horizon while staying sheltered from the sun but fully exposed to the breeze; at least in summer, because in winter it can be easily enclosed.
When it comes to sailing, the Bali 5.2 clearly prioritizes comfort and space, featuring hulls with a pronounced rake, high freeboard, and a superstructure that complements its two decks. With a displacement of around 19 tons and a sail area that, in standard configuration, ranges from 146 to 176 m², this is not a high-performance catamaran, but rather a stable and easy-to-handle cruiser.
The rigging is relatively modest and straightforward, featuring a self-tacking jib that reduces the effort and risk involved in maneuvering, though it also limits performance in light winds, where a generously sized Code 0 spinnaker will come in handy. The helm is located on the flybridge, straightforward and uncomplicated: it doesn’t promise breakneck speeds or the feel of a sporty monohull at your fingertips when you take the helm.
In return, it offers a comfortable life on board, a boat for those who see sailing as a shared experience—the more guests, the better—or a highly profitable charter vessel, because it’s important to remember that all this space, all this living area, is packed into a boat just over 50 feet long.
The flybridge, where all the controls are located and where the helmsman enjoys excellent visibility—a feature that is especially useful when maneuvering in port—completes the Bali 5.2’s design.
- Technical specifications
- Overall length (excluding bowsprit): 15.90 m
- Maximum beam: 8.16 m
- Living area: 115.4 m²
- Draft: 1.40 m
- Displacement (approx.): 19.15 t
- Standard sail area: 146 m²
- Maximum sail area: 199 m²
- Engine: 2 × 57 hp, optional up to 2 × 115 hp
- Fuel capacity: up to 1,200 L
- Freshwater capacity: up to 1,320 L
- Cabins: 3, 4, 5, or 6
- CE Certification: A/14, B/16, C/24, D/40
- Shipyard: Chantier Catana
- Naval architect: Xavier Faÿ
- Interior design: Piaton Bercault Yacht Design
- Price for the 3-bedroom model: €965,000 (excluding taxes)
This article is featured in issue 5 of Nautik Magazine, which you can find at newsstands or in our store