Nine models in a length range from 40 to 54 feet: no other manufacturer of cruising catamarans has such a dense programme as Bali Catamarans, based in Canet-en-Roussilion in the south of France. Now, however, the shipyard is aiming to further develop the line conceptually and has announced a new Bali 4.4. It is set to replace two older models, the Bali 4.5, which was the launch model for the still young brand in 2014, and the Bali 4.3 from 2017.
The general Bali idea remains more or less unchanged on the new ship. From this point of view, there are no big surprises with the presentation. Instead, the new 4.4 presents itself as a complete overhaul of the 4.5, with similar dimensions and a more modern, but certainly comparable concept. From the smaller 4.3, on the other hand, the new boat adopts the functional coupling of cockpit and exterior cockpit with sliding windows and a glazed rear wall that can be folded up under the fixed bimini like a garage door. This allows the outdoor area with the large dining table to be completely sealed off in bad weather or cold weather and also heated. In this way, the outside and inside merge into an insulated living unit.
Another exclusive special feature of the Bali concept is the laminated sheet platform between the hulls from the sterns all the way to the bows. This allows the designers to utilise the space on deck even more efficiently. For example, with a very large front cockpit in the foredeck and a large sunbed. The lounge area in the foredeck can also be accessed directly from the saloon via a watertight bulkhead. You can also relax and unwind at lofty heights on the flybridge, where there is another sun lounger and a sofa area with table.
The helm station is also installed on the upper floor. All halyards, sheets and trimming lines are deflected to within easy reach of the helmsman. Because the mast is positioned quite far aft, the standard self-tacking jib remains large in comparison. A Code Zero provides additional performance on rough courses, but will only be available as an optional extra.
The layout options and layout variants correspond to the class standard. In the owner's version, the port hull is designed as a large, enclosed living area with a double bed aft and a very spacious bathroom forward. There are two cabins in the hull on the starboard side, each with its own bathroom and shower area. For yacht charter use, the Bali 4.4 can also be equipped with a mirrored layout with a total of four cabins and four bathrooms. A berth and a wet room for the skipper can also be installed in the forepeaks on request.
The first Bali 4.4 is apparently already under construction and is due to enter the water for testing in autumn 2021. The boat will be offered for a competitive price of 554,300 euros at launch, including 19% VAT.
