CATANA 581
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 58.07 ft |
| LWL | 57.09 ft |
| Beam | 28.87 ft |
| Draft | 9.19 ft/ 2.95 ft min |
| Displacement | 35,274 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 10.1 kn |
About the CATANA 581
Displacement is light.
Designed by Christophe Barreau and built by Catana (FRA) from 1999–2003, the Catana 581 is a high-performance catamaran with a displacement of 35274.0 lb and a beam of 28.87 ft. While the exact hulls built count is unknown, the model is characterized by its fractional sloop rig and variable keel options.
- Best for:
- This boat suits performance-oriented coastal cruisers and charter operators who prioritize speed and spacious living areas over heavy offshore provisioning, given its light displacement and high sail area-to-displacement ratio.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 3.52 and a comfort ratio of 10.8, the boat is designed for speed rather than heavy-weather stability, making it suitable for protected coastal passages but requiring careful consideration for extended bluewater voyages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other late-90s performance catamarans like the Lagoon 380 or Fountaine-Pajot A38, the Catana 581 offers similar fractional sloop rigs and twin-hull layouts but distinguishes itself with a wider beam and higher sail area ratio.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CATANA 581 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 58.07ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 2 systems for the CATANA 581, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CATANA 581? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 4 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your CATANA 581?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Volvo Penta — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CATANA 581
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…