cat22 vs compac
rob, funny u should ask that. i searched for months for the "right" boat in that 22-24' range. i always liked catalinas but was afraid of the swing keel based on a friends bad experience on his 25. then i saw a compac 23-2, wow what a beautiful boat. great lines, bow sprit, very classic. i almost purchased it,but the owner hadnt maintained it well. then i found a compac23-1. what a difference, the cabin was rough and unfinished compared to the 23-2. also they supposedly didnt sail as well as the 23-2 with the sprit. as i read, i also found that they weren't very fast. most of my recent sailing was on an ensign, so i like some speed. then i found the cat 22 wing keel, 1988. sold, enough speed, comfortable cabin, not quite as roomy as the compac, but enough for my needs, and i had read that the cat 22 was a decent sailing boat. well, i wasnt disappointed, i,m not keeping up with the ensigns,but she holds her own and really seems to like it the more the wind blows. i think either boat is good buy, u just need to find the one that your comfortable on and suits your needs. jeff.