Catana OC² – An evolution designed for those who sail

The end of production of the first Catana Ocean Class naturally paved the way for a more advanced version: the OC². This evolution stems directly from feedback from owners, who for more than four years have been sharing their experiences under way or at anchor, and whether coastal cruising or passage-making. Added to these opinions are the observations of the after-sales service and shipyard teams, who see how the boats really perform on a day-to-day basis.

This second edition incorporates what’s been learnt from the feedback: optimised volumes, adjusted ergonomics, smoother circulation, and simplified sailing manoeuvres. With the OC², we’re evolving an already proven model to offer a boat that is even better suited to blue water voyaging.

The already popular interior saloon has now been extended aft as part of a rethink of the way of life on board. This expanded spirit immediately generated enthusiasm: several owners and prospects wanted to sign on for some of the first trips.

On board, the transformation is striking. The cockpit becomes a natural extension of the saloon, connecting the helm station, lateral bench seat, and large saloon that converts into an outdoor bed. At the stern, the sun deck provides continuity and protection. The result is smoother circulation and a boat designed for living together, everywhere.

To evaluate the ergonomics of the galley, there’s nothing better than a real-life situation. On the delivery trip from Canet-en-Roussillon to Cannes, we embarked a sailor who knows the Ocean Class inside out, having crossed the Atlantic aboard one. The verdict: a blanquette de veau (veal stew) prepared under way, ideal for judging the logic of the spaces and stability in real conditions.

Meanwhile, the crew naturally found their place. The boat was gliding through the water at 10 knots under Code 0 as it left Canet-en-Roussillon. The wind shifted, and we set off downwind before turning upwind and heading towards Marseille. In the evening, with the windows closed, the warmth of the interior took over.

The veal was a great success, and our cook confirmed that the galley layout has improved significantly. More fluid movements, better thought-out access, easy circulation. A 10 out of 10, just like her dish.

The OC² continued its course in medium airs. Thanks to compolite, its new material, it is lighter – a deliberate technical choice. A boat designed to carry weight maintains its performance when loaded, but the opposite is never true. At Catana, we first design a balanced boat, capable of carrying the comfort and equipment needed for a blue water cruising, then optimise performance around this capacity.

That’s the difference: just being light is not enough, you have to be light and balanced. A boat that cannot support its load immediately loses efficiency. The OC², on the other hand, stays on course, whether laden or empty.

After a night under sail, the wind died and we switched to motoring. The sea was calm: a single engine was enough to maintain 7 knots. We headed for the Île d’Or anchorage, a swim, a dive… and a drone flight. Dinner brought six guests together around the large table, with a view of the island.

At dawn, there was still no wind. The delivery continued under power, accompanied by dolphins. We finally arrived off Cannes in a small anchorage ideal for lunch and cooking fresh fish on the plancha grill, before returning (reluctantly) to shoreside reality.