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• Sailboat Reviews

Catalina 320

Frank butler's 25-year-old company updates its image with a scoop transom, modern appendages and an innovative layout, but he still likes a solid fiberglass hull. we like the result..

Catalina Yachts has carved a reputation in the production boat world by producing yachts that make owner feedback sound like a mantra. Typical comments are, “They provide real value for the dollar,” “This is not a Swan,” “A lot of boat for the money,” or, “They sail well enough, considering that most own­ers are cruisers.”

Since January 1993, owners of the newest model in the line, the 320, have added a new mantra: “This boat is really fast, and is surprisingly spacious.”

Based on our test sail and factory visit in Southern California, they are correct, especially considering the performance characteristics of earlier models.

Frank Butler opened the doors of the factory in an abandoned aircraft facility in 1969. Since our first review of a Catalina, we’ve been making the point that the company has grown to its position as the largest producer of boats in the country by consistently offering boats that meet the needs of a price-conscious marketplace. Designs have typically carried high-aspect ra­tio mainsails and large overlapping genoas that powered the boats at rea­sonable speeds while offering owners comfortable accommodations below­decks.

The 320 stands apart from earlier models because de­sign modifications have dramatically altered sailing characteristics while in­creasing the living areas belowdecks and improved crew comfort on deck.

The 320 is pleasing to the eye, partially a reflection of a finer bow entry. While it has a modest over­hang at the bow and almost none at the stern, with a waterline of 28′ it’s clearly the product of the nearly plumb bow/reverse stern thinking so prevalent in architectural circles these days.

One of the design objectives was to improve performance, so modifications were made to the sail plan, keel and rudder, reflecting tinkering that chief designer Gerry Douglas and Daniel Casal began in the early 90s. Casal told us that the primary motiva­tion was to make the boats easy to handle, since they are often sailed as cruisers by middle-aged couples who often struggle to manage overlapping genoas. As a consequence, the mast on the 320 has been moved forward, resulting in an increase in the size of the main and reduction in jib size. This makes it easier for the designer to balance the rig. This boat can be sailed similarly to a fractional rig, and de­powered by furling the jib or changing to smaller headsails before reefing, and by easing the mainsheet when the wind pipes up (instead of flogging the jib). In a blow, trimming smaller headsails will be easier for the typical cruising couple, especially because the boats are equipped with Lewmar Ocean series self-tailing winches.

From a financial standpoint, Casal’s theory is that jibs are less expensive to replace than mainsails, and sailors will be more comfortable in the meantime. When forced to motorsail, more power will be derived from the mainsail, resulting in quicker trips and less fuel consump­tion. The flip side is that large mains can be cumbersome to reef and furl.

Underwater appendages were re­designed as well. Rudder size was increased and redistributed in an attempt to generate more lift per square foot of wetted surface. The new shape is deeper, has a shortened chord and elliptical trailing edge, changes that result in a higher aspect ratio. Keels, a fin or optional shallower version with winglets, were reduced in size as well. The new design is significantly narrower at the top so has less drag, and a lower center of gravity.

Increasing crew comfort also was a criteria in the design of the 320, so the hull tapers outward at a gentler angle at B max (maximum beam), which is located just aft of station six. The payoff is a comfortable, spacious cock­pit that has drawn positive comments from new owners, and increased living space belowdecks.

The result of the sail plan reconfiguration, which carries roughly the same sail area as the Catalina 34, and redesign of the appendages, are high­er pointing angles and better balance at the helm. Coupled with a finer entry and hull design, performance is improved, which even the most casu­al cruiser should appreciate.

Construction

With more than 25 years in business, Butler has overseen the construction of thousands of the 22′ to 42’boats he’s designed, including more than 15,000 Catalina 22s, which was among the first boats inducted into the Sailboat Hall of Fame last spring. It is reasonable to assume the company knows how to properly lay up a hull, though it is continually exploring methods that will reduce cost without compro­mising structural integrity. A change in material from woven to knitted mat was included in the 320, for instance, in an attempt to increase hull strength while reducing displacement and simplifying the fabrication process.

The hull of the 320 is solid fiberglass, nine alternating layers of 1.5-ounce mat and 21.7-ounce roving. Vinylester resins are used on exterior skins above and below the waterline, so the hull is guaranteed for five years against blistering. Seven additional thicknesses of mat, roving and 2415 Pro mat are laid up in the bottom of the hull until a thickness of 1″ is reached. Layers of 1208 Promat, and 2-mm Coremat reinforce the transom and sections where hull and deck are joined.

The hull-deck joint is a shoe box arrangement with a vertical deck flange extending downward over the hull, which results in a joint having both vertical and horizontal mating surfaces. Additional support is provided by a wood section inserted between the hull and liner, all of which are bonded with a putty consisting of filled polyester resin before being through-bolted with stainless steel fasteners located on 7″ centers. It is a strong joint.

The deck is cored with plywood sections, and the cabin top with end­grain balsa.

In typical Catalina fashion, the interior of the boat consists of molded fiberglass liners tabbed to the hull that add strength but make life diffi­cult when dealing with a problem such as occurred with some of the first 3 20s: Inadequate wiring runs were buried beneath the pans during the layout, and chafe and breaks occurred. Those boats were rewired and retro­fitted with PVC conduit; subsequent boats were redesigned to eliminate the problem. As we toured the factory and saw boats in varying stages of production, we were impressed by the level of attention to detail, even on surfaces that would ultimately be covered by the liners. Nonetheless, the wiring problem supports our bias against liners which restrict access to some parts of the hull.

The bilge in early models also proved to be too shallow, so new owners often found water sloshing about amidships. Those boats were retrofitted with baffles, which helps alleviate the problem. Later, the molds were retooled to create deeper cavi­ties below the floorboards. We didn’t notice any problem during our test of the boat.

The mast, a tapered double-spread­er section constructed by Sparcraft, is stepped on deck. However, to avoid stress problems in the deck, loads are transferred directly to a compression post, which is a hardcast anodized tube attached belowdecks to 4″ x 8″ beams laminated to a fiberglass struc­tural grid system.

Wire standing rigging is attached to deck plates that connect stainless tie rods located in the main salon to an L-shaped aluminum bar laminated into the hull that acts as a chainplate.

The 320 is designed specifically for the cruising market and accommoda­tions reflect the designers’ intent to enhance performance without compromising on creature comforts.

The most noticeable characteristic of the space belowdecks is that the boat feels bigger than a 32-footor. In fact, at 11′ 9″, it is beamy. One owner, who considered purchasing similarly-sized boats offered by two competitors, and the Catalina 36, told us that he purchased the 320 because he didn’t feel there was any compromise on space belowdecks, and the boat could be easily doublehanded by he and his middle-aged wife. He says he added a lot of cruising gear with the money he saved.

The immediate impression upon stepping below is of lightness reflected from the varnished ash battens that line the hull, teak bulkheads and hand rails, and a teak and holly sole. Non­wood surfaces are white, accented by suede-like cushions on two settees. Sunlight filters into the boat from two Lewmar hatches and 10 portlights, four of which open to provide ventilation. Overhead lights are scattered throughout. The companionway steps are rounded up at the ends, making it easier to use when the boat is heeled.

The galley, located to port, has a double stainless sink, Groehe faucets, laminated surfaces, a 5-cubic-foot Adler-Barber refrigerator with 4″ in­sulation, and a Hillerange two-burner stove/oven. A dry locker, three large overhead cabinets, and a pot and pans cupboard aft of the ice box, offer adequate storage space for cruising. The foot of the companionway, has adequate lighting but seems to in­crease in size with the light from a skylight and mirrors that cover a bulk­head. It is not spacious, but has a sink, toilet, and shower with its own sump pump. Access to head hoses is facili­tated by removing the back panel of the medicine cabinet; three through­hulls are located in a cubby near the wet locker.

The saloon has comfortable seat­ing for four people at a table, mounted on a post, that converts to a double berth, and for others on a port settee, the front of which doubles as seating for the navigator.

The nav station table is adequately-sized, but the boat’s electrical panel is located in a spot that would be a better candidate for loran, GPS and other instruments. A shelf located above the panel offers a great spot for books but could better have been utilized for electronics. One owner, who had added instruments, radar and autopilot to the boat, was forced to buy a second panel.

The forepeak is large enough to sleep two adults, and has storage bins port and starboard, and two drawers. A unique touch is that the main panels of the bulkhead separating the forepeak from the saloon are removable, adding to the sense of spaciousness by creating view corridors as well as improving air circulation between the cabins.

The master stateroom is amazingly spacious, considering this is a 32-footer. Accessed to starboard at the foot of the companionway, it is furnished with a queen-size berth and has standing headroom. It has a hanging locker, the only one on the boat (on wet trips, the head might have to be utilized for additional hanging space), and a small bookshelf. Natural light and ventilation are provided by three cockpit portlights.

Another owner, who described himself as being 6′ 2″ and weighing 230 pounds, shared the berth with his wife during a month-long cruise and told us he was very comfortable. Because it’s located below the cockpit, there’s the possibility it will be noisy when sailing through the night.

The engine is located aft of the companionway steps, and is accessed most easily from the stateroom. While it is well insulated and easily accessible when changing lubricants and filters, we wondered about the potential for odors. However, two owners, each of whom have spent extended periods aboard, reported neither odors nor noise problems.

Deck Layout

Owner feedback after 340 boats indicates that the size and design of the T­shaped cockpit is appealing to cruisers and dockside loungers. It’s 8′ 9″ long, 5′ 7″ wide, and has 17″ wide seats with 13″ high, ergonomically­designed backrests, and good storage capacity under the seats.

The helmsman can handle a conventionally mounted 40″ Edson wheel from a seat mounted on the stern, or take a position on either rail. Access to the rudder post for an emergency tiller is aft of the binnacle, which means that the emergency tiller will be steered “backwards” from the stern.

There’s comfortable seating for six in the cockpit, and two additional “observation seats” mounted on the stern pulpit. The helmsman’s seat is removable, which allows a section of the stern to be removed to reach the swim platform and ladder. The port lazarette was designed to provide cruisers with adequate space for two 26″ bicycles, or sailing gear. A removable tray in this compartment has space for electrical cords, winch handles and the like. A second self­contained storage compartment with an overboard vent houses a propane tank, hoses for which are installed in runs along the hull at the factory. Further aft, batteries are stored in a small compartment at the stern. A lazarette to starboard is large enough for stowage of a dinghy or life raft. Water and fuel fillers are on the corner of the stern, so spills should not slop into the cockpit.

Standard equipment includes four Lewmar winches. The primaries are self-tailing 44s, with self-tailing 30s mounted on the cabin top for hal­yards, the mainsheet and traveler controls. This arrangement will work well until owners opt to add a spinnaker, at which point two additional winches will be a must.

Halyards are led aft to sheet stoppers on the cabin top located just aft of the main traveler; controls for the solid vang and topping lift were not, a common complaint among owners not anxious to begin drilling holes in their new boats. Because the main­sheet and vang are the only controls for the fully-battened main, performance-oriented sailors are adding a Cunningham and adjustable backstay, options we feel cruisers should consider as well. One owner said he felt the sail track was inadequate for racing, so upgraded to sturdier gear.

Unlike more performance-oriented designs, the Schaefer 2000 roller furler has been mounted above the deck, which may reduce the efficien­cy of a genoa, in exchange for improv­ing visibility. The tradeoff, though, is a uniquely designed anchor well with two molded areas for lightweight-type anchors and a third for a plow, plus room for rode, which is attached to an electric winch mounted below.

Performance

We tested the boat in 10-12 knot breez­es in the Pacific Ocean and also solic­ited comments from other 320 owners. The boat moves effortlessly under power from the three-cylinder Yanmar that is now standard equipment. It is responsive, turns on its keel and, in the words of one owner, “could be steered backwards through a slalom course.”

The 320 tacks easily, and points to within 40-45 degrees of apparent wind. One owner reported that the addition of sail controls improved pointing ability by five degrees, but since our demo boat had only the mainsheet and vang, we couldn’t achieve higher angles. Purpose-built sails instead of a furler-mounted genoa also would improve performance.

Once into the 2′-4′ ocean swells, we found the motion to be seakindly, though the helm is so well-balanced it takes time to find a proper sailing groove. Sitting behind the wheel made it difficult to see the telltales, and finding a comfortable spot on the rail was somewhat difficult because the cockpit is so wide.

When we hit the groove, however, the boat buried its shoulder and re-warded good helmsmanship with squirts forward, sailing best at about 15 degrees of heel. We are not sure if it would have more feel and sail more efficiently with a tiller, or whether we just needed more time at the wheel.

We discovered the boat has a turn of speed when we overtook two 35-38-footers cruising in the same sailing lanes. One owner, who formerly sailed a Catalina 30, reports that the boat is significantly faster than the 30 or 34, and another won his cruising division the first year on the race course, sailing with a provisional PHRF handicap of 150.

Our only time downwind was spent with just a genoa; we suspect it will need a cruising or conventional spinnaker to improve performance when sailing deep jibe angles.

The sailaway price of a 320 as we tested the boat, including fully-battened main, 135% genoa on a Schaefer furler, 3-cylinder diesel, and assorted otherequipment,is$70,975. We agree with owners who say they are receiv­ing good value. During a tour of the factory, we had the opportunity to see several boats in various stages of production, and consider quality control to be well-above average. The design is well thought out, and the perfor­mance better than we’ve experienced with other Catalina models. The average weekend cruiser will be able to step aboard and spend enjoyable time afloat, but those planning extended cruises will find themselves reorganizing stowage and creating spaces and methods for hanging gear.

Racers should plan on expendi­tures for sail controls and well-cut racing sails.

Owners we talked to said after-sale service was excellent; one mentioned that when he has a problem he simply “calls Frank.”

We liked the boat, and think it bears close inspection.

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Which Sailboat?

Catalina 25 Review

The Catalina 25 is a good racer/cruiser for inland and coastal waters available on the used market at very affordable prices.  This sailboat benefits from a large user base, active owner’s forum, and easy availability of spare parts.

Designed by Frank Butler of Catalina Yachts  in Hollywood, CA, over 6,000 Catalina 25s were built from 1976 through 1990, and all in the U.S.  She is designed as an inland and coastal racer/cruiser within budgetary reach of any American.  She is well suited to her purpose in terms of design and build quality although some owners have sailed their Catalina 25s through the Caribbean ( like this fellow ), to South America, and even to Hawaii.  The Catalina 25 was one of the most successful and longest running production boats ever built, and continues to have a strong following and interest.  The standard rig with swing keel configuration is the most popular.

The Catalina 25 has a huge user base, a very active owners’ association with racing, and a plethora of information available about maintenance on their forum (located here ).  Unlike many builders of used sailboats on the market today, Catalina has remained in business and continues to manufacture and source parts for the Catalina 25.  Catalina owners benefit from Catalina Direct , which makes buying many Catalina 25 specific parts  very convenient.  As an aside, note that Catalina Direct is a dealer for Catalina Yachts and is not run by Catalina, the manufacturer.  Many owners of the Catalina 25 report that the plethora of information available on their very active owners forum and the multitude of users eager to help, that the manufacturer was still in business, and that spare parts were readily available, were key points influencing their decision to purchase a used Catalina 25.

The Catalina 25 is a masthead sloop with a modern but conservative design, resulting in a boat that continues to have a relatively modern appearance.  She has a modern canoe underbody and broad transom.  With a waterline length of 22’2”, her length on deck to waterline ratio is equally modern.  Other design elements include a traditional sheer line, a slightly raked bow, a plumb stem with stern hung rudder, and the standard well-known Catalina cabin trunk and port configuration.  Like other Catalina sailboats built during this time, the earlier aluminum trimmed salon ports were later updated to smoked plexiglass.

CONSTRUCTION

Construction quality is good for the Catalina 25’s intended purpose as a racer/cruiser in protected and coastal waters.  The hull is constructed of solid fiberglass and the deck is wood cored.  No reports of oil-canning, hull flexing, or other structural problems exist for the Catalina 25.  The deck is joined to the hull by a shoebox-type flange, sealed with polyester putty, and mechanically connected with self-tapping screws or through-bolts.  The interior is a liner set into the boat before the deck is installed, which is a standard for Catalina and other production builders in the industry.  Although liners reduce access to the inside of the hull, Catalina 25 owners report it is of little consequence on a boat this size as most areas can be accessed by some angle or another.

Minor blistering was an issue on some earlier Catalina 25s, but not all.  Due to the long production run and improvement of fiberglass technology during this time, blistering issues were reduced in each successive year, and were nearly non-existent by the end of the run.  A 1987 Catalina 25 hauled after years of neglect and very few blisters were present.

  Despite the wood coring, soft decks are not a common problem on Catalina 25s.  Catalina 25s rarely have core rot after years of neglect.

The mast is deck stepped on a stainless steel tabernacle with a keel-stepped wooden compression post.  The tabernacle allows the mast to be raised and lowered, which owners report takes about five minutes after learning how.  The mast has one set of spreaders and is supported by three sets of shrouds, two sets of lowers and one set of uppers.  Catalina 25s were rigged with high quality stainless steel.  Jib car tracks are outboard, but due to the relatively narrow side decks, this likely does not compromise sheeting angles significantly and makes going forward easier.

Catalina offered some variation in rigging.  A standard rig and a tall rig were offered.  To provide increased sail area, the tall rig mast is approximately two feet taller than the standard and the boom is attached to the mast approximately one foot lower than the standard.  Some Catalina 25s came from the factory with internal halyards while others are external.  Some came with an adjustable backstay while others did not.  Some lacked a boom vang.  All came with hank on foresails although many owners have retrofitted roller-furling systems.  Early Catalina 25s appear to have lacked backing plates for deck hardware while later boats came from the factory with backing plates installed.  Either way, most owners of earlier Catalina 25s have installed backing plates where they were lacking.  All running and standing rigging components continue to be available from Catalina Direct.

The Catalina 25 came in three keel configurations, initially a swing or fin keel, and later a shoal draft wing keel that replaced the swing keel model.  The keel bolts on the fin keel were not originally stainless steel and were prone to rusting, but stainless steel was used in later models.

The fin is a relatively modern fin type design, deep but not too long, drawing 4’, connected to the hull by five  bolts, and providing a very respectable ballast-to-displacement ratio of 41%.  Although not as short or deep (high aspect) as more modern designs, the longer design (lower aspect) permits a stronger connection to the hull that better withstands groundings and other stresses unlike more aggressive high aspect designs.

The fin keel was originally cast iron, but in the early 1980s the design was improved so that the core of the fin was cast iron, which was then encased in lead, and then encased in fiberglass.  Earlier boats with cast iron keels should have protective anodes installed if not already done.  Many owners have encased their cast iron keels in barrier paints to stave off rust, which efforts appear to be largely successful.

The wing keel is roughly as long as the fin, but reduces draft to 2’10” and gives a very respectable ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40%.  Fin-to-wing keel conversion kits are no longer manufactured but continue to be available on occasion.  Some stiffness is lost when converting to a wing keel.

The swing keel model deserves a separate discussion.  Ballasted swing keels have been relatively rare designs, especially as their contribution to the overall ballast of the boat increases.  However, a dedicated following for ballasted swing keel performance cruisers continues to enjoy the boats built by Southerly Yachts  in England for the premium blue-water boat market.  Also, Jeanneau Shipyard  in France has just launched a ballasted swing keel in their Sun Odyssey line which may indicate a return in interest to the advantages of a ballasted swing keel boat.

On the Catalina 25, the swing keel is cast iron, and pivots from a down position to an aft-and-up position on a 1” diameter cast bronze rod hung between stout cast bronze hangers mounted to the underside of the hull.  When down, the keel provides a 5’ draft, which is deep for a boat of this size.  The keel weighs three quarters of a ton and serves as all of the ballast for the boat, giving these models a modern ballast ratio of 36%.  The heavy weight of the keel prevents many of the annoying banging noises associated with unballasted swing keels.  The keel can be raised by way of a simple and reliable manual winch system located below the companionway steps.  Little effort is required to operate the winch.  When the keel is fully raised to its horizontal position, the Catalina 25 has a draft of only 2’8”, which is of course handy for gunkholing or if the water gets shallow when exploring.  In the event of a grounding, the keel gently swings back and away rather than getting damaged or causing damage to the hull as can happen with fixed keels.

When the swing keel on the Catalina 25 is fully lowered, the keel orientation is high aspect and has a symmetrical foil shape, similar to modern race boats, so that the boat points to weather extremely well and tacks on a dime.  When completely raised, only a small part of the keel is enveloped in the hull, with the rest protruding.  So therefore when the keel is fully raised, the keel orientation is very low aspect, essentially a full keel configuration, enabling the boat to track well with little helm attention, even when sailing downwind.

Catalina recommends that Catalina 25 swing keel hardware be inspected every two years if in a salt water environment, and allows for longer if in fresh water.  However, some owners in fresh water environments report never inspecting their swing keels after thirty years of use and have no problems.  Catalina also recommended a retrofit be performed on earlier Catalina 25s to reduce the side-to-side movement of the keel along the pin, which could cause the keel to wear through the pin.  If not already done, owners should perform or have this retrofit performed and a kit is available from Catalina Direct.  Despite the swing keels being cast iron, Catalina did not typically install a sacrificial anode on Catalina 25s at the factory.  Catalina 25s should have a sacrificial anode installed, especially if in salt water, although owners of fresh water boats without sacrificial anodes have reported little corrosion.  Sacrificial anode kits, including the drill bit necessary to go through the cast iron, are available from Catalina Direct.

Interestingly, the swing keels themselves were cast in Mexico and shipped to Catalina.  Some keels have the word “MEXICO” cast into their side, which is not usually apparent if the keel has been faired.

The Catalina 25 came with a transom hung unbalanced spade rudder.  The rudder draws 2’10” so that it is somewhat protected by the keel, even the swing keel when raised fully.  The unbalanced rudder can require some effort if sail trim is not correct, or when racing or in rough weather.  Some Catalina 25 owners have upgraded to a balanced rudder, which they report enables steering with just one finger.  Balanced rudders are available from Catalina Direct.

SAILING CHARACTERISTICS

All three keel configurations sail well on any point of sail and owners consistently refer to the boat as “forgiving”.  Catalina 25 owners disagree as to whether the fin keel or the swing keel point to weather better.  Racing ratings indicate that the fin is the best performer with the swing keel close behind.  The masthead sloop configuration means a headsail is required for best performance.  With both the approximately 16:1 sail-area-to-displacement ratio of the standard rig and the approximately 17.75:1 ratio of the tall rig, in either configuration the Catalina 25 easily achieves hull speed in anything but the lightest of airs.  The relatively flat canoe body and beam carried aft cause Catalina 25s to have good initial stability.  The 36-41% ballast-to-displacement ratios mean Catalina 25s are stiff, and if knocked down, quickly right themselves.  The swing keel configuration is the stiffest, followed by the fin keel, and then the wing keel.  Many Catalina 25 owners report preferring to reef when winds reach above 15 knots.  The original mainsail provided by Catalina is a little baggier, even when new, than many sailors would prefer.  This was reportedly done intentionally by Catalina to improve Catalina 25 downwind performance to the slight detriment of windward performance.

AUXILIARY POWER

Most Catalina 25s are powered by an outboard motor on an adjustable mount.  Most Catalina 25 owners prefer a motor close to 10hp, which easily drives the boat at hull speed, even in rough conditions.  Some owners report 6hp is sufficient in calm waters.  A long shaft outboard with a shaft length of at least 25″ is preferred to keep the prop in the water in rough conditions.  Roughly 150 Catalina 25s were delivered from the factory with an inboard diesel, which was located behind the companionway steps beneath the cockpit sole.  Engine access for the inboards is expectedly cramped, but decent from the quarter berth and the companionway steps.  A few Catalina 25s appear to have factory-installed sail drives, or perhaps undocumented refits to sail drives by previous owners.  Catalina 25 owners who are active in racing prefer the outboard motor because the increase in PHRF rating, which is not always given by a race committee, is not typically enough to offset the drag caused by the inboard’s prop.  Outboard motor mount kits for owners upgrading 2 stroke motors to heavier 4 stroke motors are available from Catalina Direct.

The Catalina 25 was partially marketed as a trailer-sailer.  All three keel configurations have been pulled on trailers regularly by their owners, but the swing keel model is by far most popular for trailering.  However most Catalina 25 owners do not report trailering their boats with great frequency, likely due to the boat’s weight requiring a substantial tow vehicle and dual-axle trailer.  Some owners report their total trailering weight to approach 8,000 lbs, considering the weight of the boat itself, the trailer, and the equipment, gear, and supplies stowed on the boat.  In addition, stepping the mast is more complicated than a day sailer, requiring the use of a special rig to handle the large mast, which is available from Catalina Direct or can be built at home by an owner with designs available on the Catalina 25 forum.  (For a more trailerable Catalina, see the Catalina 22 .)

A pop-up cabin top was an option on early models and later became standard.  The pop-top is another interesting Catalina 25 feature that deserves its own discussion.  The pop-top raises head room in the salon to 6’4″, improves ventilation mightily, and enables a 360 degree view of the outside of the boat while standing below.  The Catalina 25 can be sailed with the pop-top up, but only in light airs because it requires disconnection of the boom vang.  Some Catalina 25 owners report raising the pop-top partially so that they have standing head room below but have protection from rain.  An optional pop-top tent allowed the pop-top to remain up while keeping the salon protected from the elements.  However, the pop-top does introduce an element of risk if the boat were turtled, but a boat designed for inland and coastal waters is not likely to see conditions that would cause turtling.  If one intended to take the boat beyond coastal cruising, a model without a pop-top may be preferable.

Fit and finish of the Catalina 25 is not luxurious but is better than expected at this price-point.  Wood trim is solid teak and bulkheads are teak-veneered marine grade plywood.  Accommodations are typical but very good for a boat of this size due to its moderate freeboard and beam carried well aft.  The original Catalina 25 marketing materials indicate the boat sleeps five, although one owner reported regularly sleeping with his wife and five children on the boat, as well as two guests on one occasion.  The accommodations should be acceptable for any average-sized couple or typical family.

The Catalina 25 cabin sole is the pan liner and has a respectable wood-like look modeled into it, patterned after a teak and holly sole.  The settee and berth cushions are 3” foam, which some owners have upgraded to 4”.  The original cushion covers vary from the what would now be considered hideous, patterns of the late 1970s and early 1980s, to the more acceptable patterns of the late 1980s and 1990s.  The ceilings have an unobtrusive pattern molded into the fiberglass.  No pattern is molded into the sides of the hull.

All lights installed in Catalina 25 by the factory were an inexpensive grade product designed for the RV industry rather than marine use.  Many of these lights are still in use on Catalina 25s, but many owners have replaced these lights with marine grade equipment, in part because their domes were prone to crack and because replacement domes are no longer available.  Several options for direct fit Catalina 25 replacements are available from Catalina Direct.

Forward is the v-berth, which has the typical central insert so that either more maneuvering room or more bed space can be had.  This berth can sleep two average-height adults.  One Catalina 25 owner reports having three children sleep here comfortably.  Catalina installed one light on the port side.  Fresh air is provided by the large opening hatch, which can be tightened in place partially opened to enable air flow but prevent young children from wandering about on deck unsupervised.  Additional natural light is provided by a port light just aft of the anchor locker.  A huge space beneath the v-berth is accessible from hatches beneath the cushions and in some boats, a door in the bulkhead supporting the aft end of the berths.  Some boats also came with a shelf in the bulkhead supporting the port side of the v-berth.  Many Catalina 25 owners use the space below the v-berth for storage or additional systems or tanks.

Immediately aft of the v-berth is the head.  Some Catalina 25s came from the factory with an accordion door fitted between the v-berth and the head.  Other Catalina 25s have been retrofitted with this additional privacy feature by owners.  The head does not afford standing room but is comfortable for sitting so that a shower is not a good upgrade (although some owners install cockpit showers).

Catalina 25 heads came in varied configurations, with a portable toilet or real marine head to port, and a sink or locker to starboard.  There is a platform on which both toilets would sit, which elevates a portable toilet to a comfortable height and enables easy access to the plumbing of a marine toilet, making maintenance of the marine toilet or conversion from a portable to a marine toilet straightforward.  Most Catalina 25s had a large deep shelf along the inside of the port side of the hull behind the toilet and some had hanging storage above the shelf.  If the sink was fitted, Catalina installed a light, a Whale flipper-type faucet for cold water only, an opening cabinet below the sink, and typically a shelf above the sink along the inside of the starboard hull.

Thankfully, Catalina changed the port lights on each side of the head to a version that opens, both of which are fitted with bug screens.  Catalina 25 owners report that with the v-berth hatch and both ports open, there is excellent ventilation when performing necessary business.  Owners also report that due to the angle at which the port and starboard ports are situated, water can collect in them.  Although leaking is not typically an issue and replacement gaskets are readily available from Catalina Direct, water can splash down into the head if these ports are opened after a recent rain.  Parts for the plumbing and marine toilet are available from Catalina Direct, including everything needed to install a marine toilet with holding tank in a Catalina 25 previously without one.

Aft of the head is the main salon, if a Catalina 25 could be said to have a main salon.  Almost all Catalina 25s came from the factory with an accordion door fitted between the head and the salon.  There is standing headroom in the salon for below average-height  adults, and for anyone shorter than 6’4” on pop-top models with the pop-top raised.  Newer Catalina 25s had the cabin sole lowered a few inches, increasing headroom.

The salon area came in three configurations, one traditional-type with a settee to port and starboard and a fold-down drop-leaf table, and the two other dinette-type configurations with a dinette to port and a settee to starboard.  All three interior configurations have a galley area in the aft and port corner of the salon.  All three configurations have a starboard settee running the full length of the salon with a shelf built into the side of the hull behind the back of the settee, which is long enough to double as a berth for an average sized adult.  The fresh water tank is located forward beneath this settee and the dual battery box is located beneath the aft end.

On the traditional layout model, the port settee and shelf behind built into the hull are a little shorter than the starboard settee, to enable space for the galley area.  This settee can double as a berth for a child, teen, or person of below average height.  The drop-leaf table can mount to the forward bulkhead when not in use, freeing up space in the salon.  Many Catalina 25 owners report leaving the table down but with the leaf closed which enables passage fore and aft on the starboard side of the salon while leaving a convenient table for one or two on the port side.  Owners also report that a Catalina 25 specific retrofit offered by Catalina Direct is required to keep the table from tipping over when used in this manner.

There is a difference amongst the dinette models in that some had the older fore-and-aft seating arrangement while others had a more modern L-shaped arrangement.  In both cases the table lowered to create an additional berth.  Both the more traditional dinette and L-shaped configuration also benefited from having a shelf built into the inside of the port hull like with the traditional interior layout.

In all configurations, the black water holding tank is located beneath the port settee or dinette seat.  Catalina typically installed one light above each shelf along the hull.  Some Catalina 25 owners have cut holes into the backs of the settees to create additional storage space.  Swing keel models with the traditional layout have a narrow wooden box about one foot long at the fore end of the salon which houses the keel trunk, and which most owners report using as a coffee table.  In swing keel models with the dinette interior, the keel trunk is concealed beneath the forward dinette seat.  There are bilge access hatches in the cabin sole.

The Catalina 25 galley area has slightly more head room than the rest of the salon due to the cabin sole being lower there than elsewhere so that an average height male can nearly stand up.  Catalina 25s came from the factory with a two burner pressurized alcohol stove dubbed by owner’s as the “curtain burner”.  Most alcohol stoves have been replaced with a newer and safer appliance.  The space allotted for the stove is outboard to port and large enough to support a gimbaled multi-burner range and oven, or a medium sized microwave oven.  Aft of that space is the ice box, roughly 5 gallons in size, and which can keep a 10lb bag of ice for two days.  Some Catalina 25 owners have upgraded the insulation around the icebox or installed refrigeration kits.  Inboard of the icebox is a single sink.  On all Catalina 25s, the factory installed a light above the ice box, and Whale flipper type faucets for cold water only.  Some owners have upgraded to pressurized and hot and cold water.  Replacement parts for galley equipment and all interior plumbing are available from Catalina Direct.

Aft of the sink on the bulkhead is the fuse panel, switches, and battery selector.  Accessing the wiring to this panel is relatively easy through the lazarette.  Some Catalina 25s were equipped with shore power from the factory, and if so, the alternating current switch is typically located here as well.  Shore power is another popular upgrade by Catalina 25 owners, with kits available from Catalina Direct.  Replacement electrical components are available from Catalina Direct.

Aft of the starboard settee is the quarter berth.  This berth is long enough to sleep even the tallest adult.  If the boat is equipped with an outboard, then there is extra space to stretch out where the inboard motor would otherwise be located.  Many Catalina 25 owners use this space for storing long items, such as boat hooks, spinnaker poles, tents, etc.  At the aft end of the quarter berth is a self built into the transom.  There is also a transom inspection port near there.  Catalina installed a light above the forward end of the quarter berth.

VENTILATION

Ventilation is extremely good on the Catalina 25 due to the already discussed opening hatch and ports, and is especially good with the pop-top cabin models.  However, even owners without the pop-top models report being able to sleep in comfort, even in warm climates, by using a Windscoop in the hatch in the v-berth, or by running a box fan in the hatch in the v-berth, both of which can funnel air through the entire boat.  Some Catalina 25 owners report an additional box fan is necessary in the hatch way to improve the funnel effect, especially in the aft quarter berth.  Other owners have installed marine air conditioning, while others have installed simple inexpensive household window air conditioners in the bulkhead between the aft quarter berth and the lazarette – they open the lazarette when running this setup in order to circulate air to the air conditioner, and the air conditioner’s condenser simply drips into the lazarette and into the bilge.  Many Catalina 25 owners have installed solar-powered ventilation fans in the v-berth hatch or in the head to ventilate the boat when not in use.

Up the four steps from the salon through the large companionway is the Catalina 25 cockpit.  For an inshore boat, the large companionway is nice.  The relatively large companionway makes it possible for someone to stand in the salon and be connected to the goings on in the cockpit, and provides additional light and ventilation to the salon.  At the base of the companionway is a respectably sized bridge deck to prevent down flooding into the salon.  Catalina 25 owners report that the rake of the companionway can enable rainwater to leak onto the companionway steps and the salon sole.  Many have canvas or other covers over the hatch boards when away from their boats or during rain.

The cockpit of the Catalina 25 is large for a boat this size.  Six can sit comfortably in the cockpit and eight can squeeze in.  The benches are comfortably broad with decent backrest coamings.  The coamings are wide enough to install additional cleats and winches, cup-holders, and bimini covers or cockpit awnings.  A bimini kit specific to the Catalina 25 is available from Catalina Direct.  Many Catalina 25s came from the factory with open cubbies installed in the coamings and many owners have installed cockpit stereo speakers.  A retrofit is available from Catalina Direct for Catalina 25s without these cubbies.  The benches are long and wide enough for an adult to sleep comfortably under the stars.  The rake of the cabin trunk at the forward end of the benches makes for a comfortable backrest when lounging.  Cockpit cushions are available from Catalina Direct as well as other suppliers.

For safety, the Catalina 25 cockpit is self-bailing.  Early models had the scupper drains in a horizontal position in the cockpit sole, which as in other boats were prone to clogging with leaves and other debris.  Later Catalina 25s were updated with drains oriented vertically in the transom at the level of the cockpit sole, which do not clog.  A stainless steel rail surrounds the cockpit.  Lifelines extend forward of the rails.  The lines open on either side at the forward end of the cockpit.  A stainless steel swim ladder hangs from the stern, and can be lifted out of the water when not in use.

All Catalina 25s came with a tiller, and the cockpit is setup well for tiller use with two benches that run the length of the cockpit.  Racers will appreciate the feedback of the tiller steering, but some more cruising oriented Catalina 25 owners have retrofitted wheel steering with relative ease due to the short distance from the cockpit to the rudder and easy access to necessary spaces beneath the cockpit.  The tiller on most Catalina 25s can be raised out of the way when not sailing, although some boats came with two bolts connecting the tiller to the rudder, in which case most of those owners simply removed one of the bolts so that the tiller could still pivot up and out of the way.  Replacement tillers specific to the Catalina 25 are available from Catalina Direct.

Most Catalina 25s have their halyard winches at the aft end of the cabin top, which cannot be reached by the helmsman without a tiller extension, but which are well situated for crew to operate.  Some earlier boats had their halyard winches mounted to the mast, although many owners have reconfigured their boats so that all lines lead aft.  Many owners have fitted the Tiller Tamer available from Catalina Direct, which allows them to leave the tiller unattended while moving forward.  Not all Catalina 25s have Jib sheet winches but if they are installed, are typically found on the cockpit coamings within very easy reach of the helmsman.  The mainsheet is also within very easy reach of the helmsman.  The Catalina 25 cockpit is large enough for crew to operate both the mainsheet and the jib sheets without interfering with the helmsman.

Beneath the port bench is a very large lazarette for a boat this size.  One Catalina 25 owner reports being able to easily store a 110% working jib, 135% drifter, and a 155% genoa in this locker along with his shore power cable, fenders, a throwable life preserver, and many miscellaneous items along the shelf built into the starboard side of the hull.  He particularly appreciated not having to clutter up his v-berth, which he and his wife actively used, with sails as is done on many boats.  The Catalina 25 lazarette can be secured with a padlock to prevent theft or a pin to prevent down flooding in a knockdown.

All Catalina 25s came with a manual bilge pump, which was mounted in this lazarette so that the pump handle when installed, protrudes from the side of the left cockpit bench.  Access to this pump is easy from inside the lazarette.  The manual pump is not self-priming and is of little use except in emergencies.  Many owners have upgraded to electric bilge pumps running in tandem with the manual.

The earliest Catalina 25s had the fuel tank situated in this lazarette, but later the aft end of the lazarette was divided into a separate fuel locker which is accessible beneath an additional hatch under the aft end of the port bench.  The problem with having the fuel in the lazarette as in the original design is that the lazarette drained to the bilge enabling a possible build-up of explosive fumes on boats equipped with outboard motors and lacking bilge blowers as inboard boats have.  In the updated Catalina 25 design, the fuel is in a raised locker that vents to the outside and has no connection to the bilge.

Beneath the aft end of the starboard bench is a storage compartment not specified by Catalina for any particular use.  This compartment has a rubber gasket, and so some owners use it for dry storage while others use it for a cockpit cooler, large enough to hold ice and a 6 pack.  Some Catalina 25 owners report using this compartment for live bait.

Almost always, cockpit instruments are mounted in the aft cabin trunk bulkhead.  Owners report replacing and installing new instruments is straightforward due to easy access.  While typical and practical for boats of this size, if the cockpit is full, crew and guests can block the captain’s view of these instruments, and he or she must ask the person seated closest to them about readings.

Going forward, the side decks of the Catalina 25 are necessarily narrow, but not uncomfortably so.  The lifeline stanchions are at the low height of 22” typical for a boat this size, but are functional if one pulls up on the lifeline when holding on, which plants feet firmly on deck.  Most Catalina 25s have handholds running the entire length of the cabin house top.  The shrouds are placed directly in the middle of the side decks so that going forward requires a little navigation although owners seem to move forward with ease.  Replacement life lines and stanchions specific to the Catalina 25 are available from Catalina Direct.

The bow is a nice space for working with a sturdy pulpit surrounding the anchor locker.  Catalina 25 owners report this is a nice rail on which to lean while hanking on jib sails in a chop.  The anchor locker is large enough to hold an appropriately sized Danforth anchor and plenty of rode.  The anchor locker drains overboard and can be secured with a padlock or pin.  Replacement bow pulpits and stern rails specific to the Catalina 25 are available from Catalina Direct.

In 1990, the Catalina 25 was discontinued and the Catalina 250 was introduced shortly thereafter.  While the Catalina 250 is also a good boat, it began Catalina’s shift toward day-sailers in this size class.  The Catalina 250 used water ballast with a centerboard to improve trailering ability, but a wing keel model was also offered for sailors interested in a more traditional setup.  The Catalina 250 also lacked a number of the liveaboard-type cruising features of the Catalina 25, but did benefit from a better enclosed head.  Catalina produced the Catalina 250 for a number of years, but later moved entirely to day-sailors for this size class of boat.

Catalina 25s can be found on the used boat market typically ranging anywhere in price from $4,000 to $15,000, mostly depending upon condition, installed equipment and upgrades, and interior updates.  However, derelict project boats occasionally pop-up for much less.  Due to the ubiquity of the Catalina 25, it is always easy to find one for sale on Craigslist, Sailboat Listings , Sailing Texas , and other venues, and there are a plethora on Yacht World .  If shopping for a Catalina 25, make sure all swing keel maintenance has been performed or be prepared to do it.  Check early boats with aluminum trimmed windows for leaks, which was common but easily repairable.  Check for blistering, which was a hit and miss problem on earlier boats.  Otherwise, nothing is special to consider with these boats that one would not for any other boat.

Special thanks to Scott Bond, Steve Milby, Frank Oliver, Dave Bristle, and Kyle Koeper for their contributions to this article.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Catalina 25, 250 & Capri 25 International Association

Catalina 25 Specific Parts Available from Catalina Direct

Catalina 25s for Sale on Yachtworld.com

COCKPIT VIEW VIDEO OF CATALINA 25 SAILING ON CALIFORNIA DELTA

CATALINA 25 CLASS RACING

VIDEO TOUR OF A CATALINA 25 WITH POP-TOP, TRADITIONAL LAYOUT, AND SWING KEEL

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8 thoughts on “ catalina 25 review ”.

A big thank you for your blog post.Really thank you! Really Cool.

Yep thanks from me too! I’ve never heard of these things, believe it or not. Just found one in Sydney and am doing some googling… turns out they’re a great, much loved boat lol. This comprehensive article is evidence for sure. Such a nice, clean shape that really hasn’t aged. Maybe newer designs are wider in the tail but that’s about it. This experience feels like when I bought a boring old Subaru and discovered that there were heaps of web sites and forums run by people who love them.

I like the catalina 25 sailboats

enjoyed this article. I would like to know if you can totally beach a swing keel so that the weight of the boat rest atop of the swing keel.

Hello DAB and thanks. The swing keel Catalina 25 was not designed to be beached or grounded. When fully lifted, the keel remains mostly below the hull. If the boat were beached, the keel could put more stress on the fiberglass keel trunk and slot in the hull than the design could accommodate.

The C-25 boats with inboard was factory installed with standard stuffing box not a saildrive. Had my ’86 ten years. We loved her. She never let us down.

“Check early boats with aluminum trimmed windows for leaks, which was common but easily repairable. ”

mine is early and has leaky aluminum windows. Can you point me to resources (or the source of your info?) for easy repairs? My understanding was that gasket/window replacement was a complete pain, but maybe that was for later boats.

Hello Smosh! The link below will take you to the Aluminum Window Reseal Kit available from Catalina Direct. The kit includes the materials you need to make the repair, and includes instructions. http://www.catalinadirect.com/index.cfm/product/1055/aluminum-window-reseal-kit-c-25-c-27.cfm

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10 Best Sailboats To Live In

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Living aboard a sailboat is an exciting lifestyle choice, but there are lots of considerations you’ll need to make.

‍ First and foremost, you have to pick a boat to live in. Unless you plan on sleeping under a canvas tarp, it’s essential to find a sailboat with a proper cabin.

Cabin sailboats became common in the United States during the early 20th century, but size and amenities vary widely between boats.  

For example, early wooden sailboats generally featured very sparse accommodations below, typically consisting of a pipe berth, oil lamps, a coal-fired stove and a bucket privy—typically without standing headroom.

Fortunately, the majority of cabin sailboats came with a lot more than a bucket to wash with.

In this article, we’ll go over some of the most important considerations to make when choosing a sailboat to live on . After, we’ll give a top-ten list of the best used liveaboard sailboats you can buy today.

Table of contents

Why Live Aboard a Sailboat?

Thousands of people choose to live aboard their sailboats.  It’s an alternative lifestyle with a host of benefits for those willing to deal with the added challenges.  

Liveaboards can move their entire house on the water, and it’s typically cheaper to live on a boat than in a traditional house.

This is especially true in major waterfront cities, where rent in the same area as the marina can be several times more expensive.  

Some people love the marina lifestyle, and others travel the world.  All-in-all, living aboard a sailboat can be a rewarding, enriching, and financially-freeing lifestyle choice.

What to Consider when Buying a Liveaboard Sailboat

The most important thing to consider when buying a liveaboard sailboat is what level of accommodation you need.

Some people aren’t bothered by limited amenities; in fact, many traditional sailors prefer a stripped-down and basic sailboat interior. However, many others appreciate useful features such as electric toilets and a full galley.

You can find virtually every creature comfort on board a modern sailboat, so it’s up to you to decide what level of convenience you expect. ‍

For most people, a standard cruising sailboat interior from after 1970 will suffice, as these typically include a usable galley, shower, head, and ventilation.

Offshore VS Coastal Cruising Accommodations

Sailboat interior design is dependent on certain criteria, such as the sailboat’s intended use. Long-distance cruising sailboats have cabins arranged to suit such a journey.

Long-distance sailboats usually remove any unnecessary furniture or extras down below to increase storage, and sleeping options are altered to ensure easy access, which allows the crew to regain control of the boat in a pinch.

Coastal cruisers tend to feature a more luxurious layout, with larger sofas and more complex interior features. Additionally, storage space is generally reduced to allow for the inclusion of other amenities.

Whichever style you choose should reflect both how you plan to use your boat and what level of comfort you need.

What Makes A Great Liveaboard Sailboat?

For this article, we’ve outlined a few requirements which we believe identify an excellent liveaboard sailboat :

• Standing headroom (at least 5’10”)

While many people live aboard boats without standing headroom, it’s still a nice feature to have.  Months or years spent crawling or crouching can wreak havoc on your back and body, so standing headroom is a necessity in this list.

• 120V AC availability

Electricity is a definite requirement for our liveaboard list.  Boats without 120V AC outlets present major challenges to liveaboards, as there’s no way to charge most computers or cell phones.  Some boats feature a 12V outlet, but full-time liveaboard boats should have standard house connections for electricity.

• Galley facilities

Unless you plan on eating out every day, a galley is a must for our list.  We define an adequate galley as a facility with a sink, ice box or refrigerator, and a stove.  An oven is an added bonus, but one can usually be added along with a new stove.

• Electric lighting

Electric lighting is a matter of both safety and convenience aboard boats.  There’s nothing wrong with kerosene lamps; many sailors adorn their boats with them.  However, a long-term liveaboard boat should feature safe and reliable electric lighting.

• Toilet with plumbing

Sanitation facilities are vital on board a sailboat, especially if you live on it.  Improper human waste storage and disposal will spread awful diseases.  Plus, nobody wants to live on a stinky boat or use a porta-potty all year long.  We required each of our ten boats to have built-in and properly outfitted toilets, plus safe storage tanks for pumping out later.

Bathing facilities are also a must on most liveaboard sailboats.  However, many liveaboards opt not to use their on-board showers in favor of marina or gym facilities.  That being said, it is very convenient to have a shower on your boat.  Keep in mind, some boat showers drain directly into the bilge.  If you use your onboard shower, be sure to keep the bilge pump in working order and remember that anything you put in the drain ends up below your floor.

• Separate seating spaces

We think a liveaboard sailboat should have extra sitting spaces on board, apart from the main bed.  A place for sitting, eating, working, and navigating is essential when living aboard long-term, and the added convenience of a separate space will make day-to-day activities much more enjoyable.

• Ventilation

Last but not least, we believe ventilation is essential for any liveaboard sailboat.  This is the simplest of requirements, as a passive solar roof vent or opening porthole should be sufficient.  In short, there should be a way to let fresh air in without opening a main hatch.

Top 10 Liveaboard Sailboats

Here’s a list of the top ten liveaboard sailboats that you can purchase used today.

These are in no particular order, but each boat meets or exceeds the requirements of a great liveaboard sailboat.

Remember, the features listed for each of these boats could vary based on age or trim, so be sure to check back to this list when inspecting a boat.

Without further ado, here’s ten of the greatest liveaboard sailboats ever produced.

1. Catalina 30

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The Catalina 30 is one of the most common production cruising sailboats ever.

Thousands of these reliable and robust fiberglass boats still sail, despite the fact that they first entered the market in 1972.

This 30-foot boat features a modern and spacious interior, with all the accommodations you’d expect on a boat its size.

Most models feature a large and useful galley, along with running water supplied by electric pumps.

The Catalina 30 also featured a ‘suite’ layout, with a master bedroom V-Berth closed off to the rest of the cabin by a door.

An enclosed shower and head make it a pleasant boat to live on.

The layout of the Catalina 30 also featured a dinette, which serves as an excellent chart table or workspace as well.

2. Islander 36

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The Islander 36 is a well-rounded liveaboard sailboat which also has impressive cruising capabilities.

While manufacturing ceased in the 1980s, the I-36 was the company’s best-selling model with nearly a thousand built.

Islander boats are known for some well-adorned cabins, and many featured elegant wooden interior trim.

Like the Catalina 30, the Islander 36 includes an enclosed head with a shower and flush toilet.

The interior layout of the I-36 is spacious and well-designed, featuring a long port and starboard settee which folds out into a double-berth for sleeping.

An enclosed shower and spacious master berth make it a very well-rounded option for cruising and living aboard.

3. Contessa 32

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Contessa Yachts produced their venerable 32-foot cruising and racing sailboat from 1970 until 1990, but custom boatbuilders still manufacture the yacht today.

It’s well-known for cruising capabilities, but it has a lot to offer as a liveaboard as well.

The traditional cabin is thoughtfully designed, featuring a fold-up table in the center of the cabin floor.

The spatially conscious design of the Contessa 32 makes it an excellent option for the no-frills and organized sailor.

This vessel features a separate master bedroom, along with a head and shower in the hallway between the compartments.

4. Pearson 34

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Pearson produced their excellent 34-foot sailboat during the 1980s. This medium-sized cruising yacht features an extremely spacious interior with plenty of floor space to move around.

The layout is complex, but not overwhelming. The galley nook is functional and features convenient overhead storage for utensils giving it a ‘home-y’ feeling.

The head is enclosed and spacious, including a bathroom sink and mirror.

The separate master bedroom is also enclosed with ample clothing storage throughout.

Out of all the boats listed so far, the Pearson 34 should feel most like a traditional living space to most people.

If the Pearson 34 seems a little too compact, be sure to read on and check out the next two boats on the list.

5. Nordic 40

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So far the largest boat on our list, the Nordic 40 is a super-capable offshore cruiser with excellent liveaboard facilities.

This relatively rare boat features an extremely spacious interior, which is more than ample for a couple to live comfortably.

Standing headroom throughout, a spacious master bedroom, along with a nearly full galley allows for superbly comfortable living in any climate or region.

The extra storage aboard makes remote living possible, so owners can anchor out for weeks or months at a time with enough provisions to last.

While this boat isn’t very common, it’s still worth keeping an eye out for it while searching for a liveaboard sailboat .

6. Peterson 44

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The Peterson 44 is what’s known as a ‘center-cockpit cruiser,’ featuring a split-cabin both fore and aft.

This spacious interior layout maximizes living space without decreasing sailing capabilities.

The boat features a master bedroom and bathroom, along with another cabin, berth, and head behind the cockpit.

In addition to two bathrooms, it features a full galley, booth dinette, and settee.

All these extras combined with excellent storage make it an excellent liveaboard option.

Pearson is well-renowned for building excellent boats, and their interior quality is above average.

7. Nor’Sea 27

{{boat-info="/boats/norsea-27"}}

The Nor’Sea 27 is a classic compact sailboat, which is ideal for minimalist or single people living aboard.

The interior is surprisingly spacious for its size, featuring all the amenities you’d expect on a larger boat.

This beautiful little boat likely mimics the comfort of a Catalina 30, and should cost less in slip fees.

The interior features a toilet, shower, and galley.

The forward berth converts into a dinette but features two other bunks underneath the cockpit.

Production of the Nor’Sea 27 began in 1976, and it’s still produced today.

And the best part—you can legally tow it on a trailer. It’s arguably the ultimate compact cruiser/liveaboard available today.

{{boat-info="/boats/cal-34"}}

The Cal 34 is very typical of mid-range sailboats of the 1970s. Produced between 1968 and 1975, this basic but comfortable yacht has a lot of potential as a liveaboard.

The interior is simple and spacious, without much luxury or adorning. However, less features make for less maintnence, and everything you’d need is available in the Cal 34.

A master bedroom, shower, and toilet are all standard, along with a well-arranged galley and comfortable sitting area.

The boat features ample storage for clothes, food, and gear.

All mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems aboard are easy to maintain, plus the cabin is well-designed.

9. Catalina 38

{{boat-info="/boats/catalina-38"}}

Another classic Catalina sailboat makes the list, with a well-thought-out interior that’s spacious enough for a couple to live comfortably.

Catalina produced their 38-foot sloop between 1977 and 1990, and it came standard with many excellent liveaboard features such as electrical outlets throughout the cabin.

Also, the head is spacious and includes a sink, which is always very convenient.

With plenty of places to sleep, there’s no need to fold away the galley table to get some rest.

The Catalina 38 is another fantastic mid-sized sailboat for living aboard, especially if you aren’t quite comfortable inside a Catalina 30.

10. Hunter 33

{{boat-info="/boats/hunter-33"}}

The last boat on our list is also one of the longest-lived in its category. Hunter produced their 33-foot sailboat starting in 1977, and it’s still in production today.

This handy mid-sized boat features excellent interior accommodations, with plenty of sitting and sleeping areas to choose from.

In addition to a full dinette, it features a toilet and shower aft away from the master bedroom.  Such an arrangement is a great option for sailors, as it allows the use of the head without moving too far away from the controls.

Standing headroom throughout the long cabin makes for a very comfortable long-term living arrangement.

The galley has plenty of storage space and the L-shaped layout allows for easy and efficient use.

At the end of the day, you’ll get to choose the liveaboard sailboat that works best for you. Check out some of the boats we mentioned and get an idea of what they offer.

Use this list to help identify features that you need, and perhaps avoid features that you don’t want.

When it comes to living aboard, there’s a lot more to consider than just your boat. As long as the boat you choose is in good condition, you’ll likely end up falling in love with it.

Either way, consider these top-ten liveaboard sailboats when you’re on the hunt for your boat.

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Catalina 25 Interior Upgrades

The Catalina 25 is the most popular keelboat in its class with close to 6,000 examples produced. The 25-foot mini-cruiser is easily trailerable and a popular sailboat racing option because of its relative spaciousness despite its size, lightweight construction, and reasonable cost. There is a vibrant owners community and despite going out of production, Catalina Yachts still produces spare parts for the model.

Seeing as the first Catalina 25s were produced in the late ‘70s and the last one rolled off the production line in 1994, you will need to upgrade the boat with some modern necessities if you haven’t already. 

When should you upgrade the interior of a Catalina 25?

You can upgrade your Catalina 25 at any time. The only limitation is cost and space. The upgrades will also depend on the model year as the boat underwent a radical design transformation throughout its sixteen-year production run.

The later models of the ‘90s were far more sophisticated than the 1978 models. They would therefore need the least upgrades, at least from a technological perspective. These later models had powerful inboard motors instead of having to rely on an outboard, pressurized water that could be heated at will, and more complex electrical systems. But you can still give the interior a facelift if the stock model doesn’t meet your particular standards.

How should you go about upgrading your Catalina 25?

Upgrading is a fairly intuitive process. It’s your boat, you know what it needs. Cosmetic upgrades are the easiest. Sanding the deck and polishing the decks doesn’t need much skill. Just remember to use gentle cleaning agents to prolong the lifespan of the wood.

As for electronic systems, upholstery, and furniture, you can set up most of them yourself or with the help of a friend. It’s the upgrades affecting the structural integrity of your boat that will require employing a professional if you lack the skills yourself. 

Take installing a new inboard motor for example. If your boat came with an inboard, it’s mostly just a matter of unscrewing the old engine and putting in the new one. If it came with an outboard, however, or if you’re installing a bigger engine, some drilling on the hull may be necessary

Modernization upgrades for you Catalina 25

A lot of modernization centers around your electronics suite. Some of the technologies we may take for granted were either not invented or not in common use when the boat came out. Think of a device like the seakeeper which helps prevent seasickness by stabilizing the motion of your boat. Those things didn’t exist in the ‘90s.

There are other components of the electronics suite that may need to be installed or updated periodically: AIS, VHF, GPS, radar, chart plotter, depth finder, fish finder, Wi-Fi, wind meter, autopilot, night vision, etc. Since the hardware and software powering these technologies gets updated constantly, keeping up with all the latest advancements may not be practical. 

You would find yourself overhauling your electronic suite every year because the new model has a touch screen, better graphics, 3D features, or something else. Not to mention the cost of these overhauls. Doing that once every five years or so should be fine. 

You should always download free software updates immediately but newer paid versions can wait. You don’t need new toys if the ones you have work reasonably well. However, if money is no problem, go nuts. The best approach is to use electronics made by just one or two companies and use a single monitor for display in order to reduce clutter.

Steering upgrades for your Catalina 25

These mostly center around making your boat easier to steer. These are things like installing an anchor launcher, roller furling genoa with luff foam, an auto tiller, and running lines through the cockpit or tethering them there. 

These improvements allow you to pilot the boat without needing much help from anyone. You would be very thankful for them if you find yourself alone in rough conditions or carrying a bunch of noobs.

Miscellaneous upgrades for your Catalina 25

Other upgrades are mostly targeted at improving comfort, cosmetic appeal, and plain old upkeep. Things like overhauling the vinyl and the carpets in your helm, sanding or repainting the deck, reupholstering the cabins, putting in new furniture and bedding, changing the faucets, plugging leaks, checking for mildew, adding a freezer or an icebox, etc.

These upgrades are in no way minor. They can require extensive labor and resources over time. In addition to making your sailboat look better, they also improve your mood, make it look newer, and can come in handy when you decide to sell and upgrade to a different boat. Keeping up necessary maintenance also saves you a lot of trouble down the road as poor maintenance often leads to quicker degradation.

Take something like the hull. If you don’t clean it regularly you will not be able to catch and patch up tiny cracks on the fiberglass that tend to widen over time and undermine the structural integrity of the entire hull.

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Catalina 315

• Catalina 355
• Catalina 385
• Catalina 425
• Catalina 445
• MAINSHEET MAGAZINE
• TRUE NORTH YACHTS

With core attributes of the award-winning 445 and 355, the 315 includes features that are not found in many of the world’s yachts, yet come standard with the Catalina 5 Series: a watertight StrikeZone™ collision bulkhead, the SecureSocket™ mast support system that affords superior load resolution and watertight integrity; the DeepDefense™ rudder system for failsafe steering, and the T-Beam MastStep™ structure that has all the benefits of a deck-stepped mast and the strength of a keel-stepped mast.

All the best elements of the 5 Series Catalinas are replicated in the 315. You’ll find a bold emphasis on strength, lead keels, sleek low profile cabin design, ergonomically correct cockpits that are optimized for efficiency, with great visibility from the helm. Plus, all the classic warmth and ambience that only a teak interior creates.

PHOTO GALLERY

GENERAL DIMENSIONS

Length Overall: 33′ 0″

Length of Hull: 31′ 0″

Length at Waterline: 26’6″

Beam: 11′ 7″

Distance from Waterline to Masthead: 48′ 3″

Draft: 4′ 4″

Ballast: 4,400 lbs

Designed Weight: 10,600 lbs

Displacement / Length: 245

Sail Area / Displacement: 18

Ballast Ratio: 41%

Draft: 6′ 3″

Ballast: 4,000 lbs

Designed Weight: 10,200 lbs

Displacement / Length: 235

Ballast Ratio: 39%

RIG MEASUREMENTS

Total with 100% Foretriangle: 506ft 2

Total with Standard 135% Genoa: 589ft 2

I= 42′ 9″

J= 11′ 9″

P= 38′ 9″

E= 13′ 9″

TANKS & CAPACITIES

Water: Forward 35 gal

Water Heater: 6 gal

Total Water: 41 gal

Sanitary Holding Tank: 17 gal

Fuel: 25 gal

ENGINE & CONTROLS

Yanmar 3YM20, 21 HP Diesel

Pedestal Steering with 40″ Stainless Wheel

Single Lever Engine Controls

3 Blade Dynajet 14 x 2

WINDLASS & CHAIN

Quick Genius 600

1/4″ High Test or BBB Chain

Primary Lewmar #40, Chrome Bronze, Evo Self Tailing

Secondary Lewmar #30, Chrome Bronze, Evo Self Tailing

Batteries: Qty-2 4D 150 Amp-Hrs

Shore Power: Qty-1. 30 Amp Service

Battery Charger: Qty-1 20Amp

All specifications are approximate and subject to change without notice.

Actual equipment also subject to change without notice.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Construction.

• Fiberglass Hull with a Full Structural Grid and Hull
• Liner Bonded to the Hull
• Vinylester Resin Barrier Coat To Resist Osmatic Blistering
• Fiberqlass Deck End Grain Balsa Core with Bonded Full Fiberglass Headliner
• Molded-in Diamond Pattern Non-skid, White with Grey Two-Tone
• Lead Fin Keel with Stainless Steel Keel Bolts
• Five Year Gel Coat Blister Protection * ( 2 )
• Five Year Hull Structure Warranty * ( 3 )
• Gel Coat Waterline, Midwatch Blue
• Midwatch Blue and Silver Sheer Stripes

SPARS & RIGGING

• Furling Mainsail with vertical Battens
• 135% Genoa, with U.V, Protection, White
• Complete Standing and Running Rigging
• Internal Low-Stretch Dacron Halyards
• PVC Wiring Conduit with Messenger in Mast
• Selden Mast & Boom Anodized Double Spreader Rig
• Mounting for Gennaker Bow Sprit

SAIL HANDLING & EQUIPMENT

• ( 2 ) Two-Speed Self Tailing Primary Winches
• ( 2 ) Two-Speed Self Tailing Mainsheet / Halyard Winches
• Mid-boom Mainsheet System
• ( 1 ) Ball Bearing Winch Handle
• Mainsheet Traveler with Car and Adjuster System Led to Cockpit
• Headsail Furling Gear
• Boom Vang, Rigid Adjustable Type
• Inboard Genoa Tracks
• ( 2 ) Ball Bearing Genoa Blocks
• ( 2 ) Jib Halyards Lead Aft with Sheet Stoppers

PROPULSION, STEERING & CONTROLS

• Pedestal Steering with 40 ” S.S. Wheel
• Steering Brake
• Yanmar 3YM20
• Bronze Propeller, Three Blade
• Sea Water Filter System for Engine Cooling
• Fuel Filter and Water Separator
• Binnacle 5 ” lighted Compass
• Emergency Tiller System
• Bilge Blower
• Hand Laminated Rudder with 316 Stainless Steel Core and Post
• Low friction Rudder Bearings

DECK HARDWARE

• Comfortable Cockpit with Contoured Coamings
• Walk Through Stern with Helm Seat
• Telescoping Stern Boarding Ladder
• Double Lifelines with Gates Port and Starboard
• Mooring Cleats, Two Fore and Two Aft
• Spring Cleats Port & Starboard
• Large Double Anchor Roller on Foredeck
• Anchor Locker for Below Deck Chain and Rode Storage
• Stainless Steel Handrails on Cabin Top
• Stern Rail with Observation Seats, Port and Star- board
• Double Anchor Rollers
• L.E.D. Cockpit Light
• Extruded Aluminum Toe Rail with Integral Chocks
• T-Shaped Cockpit with Raised Helm Seats Port & Starboard
• Watertight “ StrikeZone ” Collision Bulkhead Molded Aft of the Anchor Locker
• Molded in LP Gas Locker Port Side holds ( 2 ) 10 lb Fiberglass Tanks— (1 ) Tank Standard
• Varnish Finish On Interior Teak
• Cabin Window Shades
• Inner-Spring Mattresses in Fore and Aft Berths with Custom Fitted Sheets
• Veneer Bulkheads with Solid Teak Trim
• Cedar lined Hanging Lockers
• Chart Table with Storage Compartment and 110V and 12V outlets
• Teak and Holly Textured High Pressure Laminate Sole
• Fabric Covered Interior Cushions
• ( 3 ) Fixed Ports in Hull
• ( 3 ) Ventilation Hatches with Screens
• ( 4 ) Opening Ports with Screens
• L.E.D. Interior Lighting
• Refrigeration, D.C. Powered System , with Freezer Compartment, Front and Top Access
• Storage Cabinets in Galley
• Two Burner Stove with Oven, Stainless Steel, L.P.G. with Auto Ignition
• Stainless Steel Double Sink, polished
• Single Lever Faucet with Pull Out Sprayer

PLUMBING SYSTEM

• Hot & Cold Pressure Water Distribution System
• Electric Bilge Pump with Float Switch
• Manual Bilge Pump
• Hot and Cold Shower on Stern
• Electric Macerating Marine Head with Holding Tank and Deck Outlet and Valve for Overboard Discharge of Holding Tank
• Main Cabin Cabinets Port & Starboard w/matched Grain Doors and Privacy Screens over Hull Ports
• High Bilge water alarm

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

• Marine Multi-Bank Battery Charger
• Battery Condition Meter
• L.E.D. Anchor Light at Masthead
• 12 Volt Lighting Throughout
• Custom 110 Volt AC/12 Volt DC Electric Panel
• Circuit Breakers for AC and DC Electrical Panel
• AC Duplex Receptacles Throughout
• AC Dockside Power with Outlets and Polarity Indicator and Circuit Protection
• DC Electrical System with Safety Switch and Panel with Breakers
• ( 1 ) 110V 30 amp Shore Power Cord
• Deck Light and L.E.D. Steaming Light on Mast
• Electric Anchor Windlass, with Power Up and Down Controls
• L.E.D. Navigation Lights to International Rules
• L.E.D. Adjustable Cabin Lights
• Galvanic Isolator

SAILING INSTRUMENTS

• Raymarine i70 1-Multi-Function Displays with Transducer. Mounted at Starboard Helm Stations

FIND YOUR LOCAL DEALER

Proudly owned, designed & built in america, additional resources.

• Brochure Archives
• Associations

PARTS & TECH SUPPORT

727-544-6681

7200 Bryan Dairy Rd

Largo, FL. 33777

Posted 2024-08-27 09:29

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Catalina 27’ Sailboat for Sale - $3,500 (Pasadena)

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Catalina 27’ Sailboat for Sale - boats - by owner - marine sale -...

1978 Catalina 27’ sailboat for sale. A great sailboat for the Chesapeake Bay. Makes for a wonderful weekend getaway or a day sail with family and friends. Currently in a slip at White Rocks Marina,...

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Painting Catalina fiberglass interior

• Thread starter radioguy
• Start date Aug 9, 2010
• Catalina Owner Forums
• Ask A Catalina Owner

Hey guys! I'm in the process of painting my entire boat inside and out. I've spent the last few days sanding the outside of the boat and applied the first coat of primer yesterday. Today, the second primer coat goes on, and then Wednesday we will apply Interlux Brightside paint (Medium Blue, with a white boot stripe and black anti-fouling, BEAUTIFUL!) We also want to do the interior. It's currently a beige color and is pretty beat up. I've read in other places that you can prime it and paint it with a nice mildew-resistant interior paint from a home improvement store, instead of using the high dollar marine paint. Either way, I'm curious to read anyone elses experience in painting the interior. Same procedure, sand, prime, sand, prime, sand, top coat, sand, top coat? Does it come out well? Thank you RG  

Old Skool Neil

My experience, before and after. The paint used was Rustoleum gloss white. Going on 5 years now and still in good condition.  

Attachments

adirondackbob

Neil, nice job. Just wondering what you use on your interior wood. Bob  

adirondackbob said: Neil, nice job. Just wondering what you use on your interior wood. Bob Click to expand

Stu Jackson

The Pardey's recommended adding a little blue to the white for interior painting. Beautiful job, Neil.  

I never really thought about painting the interior until I saw Neil2099's pics. Are you saying that you just sanded the interior floors and bulkhead/walls and then painted with a simple Home Depot Rustoleum paint? I've scrubbed and power washed the interior, but I assumed it was almost a 'rubber' like material that wouldn't sand well (at least the floor). Am I wrong? Did you just paint using a roller or brush, do you use the tip method? Why add the blue? Wouldn't an eggshell or beige or maybe even a light gray work? After it has dried, wouldn't walking on it scrap it up? It seems to me that paint on a floor that has alot of flex to it would peel after time.... Sounds like a great project, just never thought about it!  

Fiberglass sands easily and accepts paint well. I applied it by spraying with an HVLP gravity feed gun. There's a strategy to it, one cabin at a time spraying top to bottom. Yup, that meant laying on my back spraying the V berth overhead, quarter berth too. My interior had a veined texture to the fiberglass so in reality spraying was the only option. I can't imagine how a rolled or brushed finish would look, likely run city. I didn't paint the sole. True, it got some paint but only overspray from everything else. I've carpeted it but I really want to do a real teak and holly sole, not that plywood stuff but real 8/4 teak sawn so the edge grain becomes the face, but I digress .. you can see the dark blue carpet in the hanging locker and main salon pictures. The reason the Pardey's suggest adding a teaspoon of royal blue to a quart of white paint is to give it a whiter than white look, really make it pop. As I recall, their recommendation applies to exterior work as well. Note that I didn't do that, it was Stu's post that mentioned it. And yeah Team, that's plain old Rustoleum. In my opinion it's one of the last decent quality high solids oil based paints available to the average schmo. I added a capful of japan dryer (aka cobalt dryer) per quart of thinned paint. This cuts the drying time of oil based paints at least in half. Works great with varnish too.  

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