I'm thinking about selling my 77 C27 and upgrading to a 78 to 82 C30. I've seen in some of the threads that the older C30's had thicker hulls (what years?). Also some C30's built during the 80's used poor fiberglass in the hull layup causing blistering. I'm mainly looking at a boat for extended weekends and at least cruising the Chesapeake Bay for up to a week at a time since the C27 is a little short on living space. Also I'm thinking that the C30 is at least more affordable than buying a C34 or C36. Any opinions on these questions or issues? Thanks, Jim Stocks C27, #3334 Voyager
- Status
Later year models
If it's in your price range, you might consider a later model. The C-30 design was upgraded in 1987 to incorporate many improvements over the earlier years model, including rigging upgrades, etc. Although by now you may find an older boat that has gone through numerous upgrades as well. Just a thought. I find the C-30 great for extended weekend cruising and week long cruising. Lots of room. I've not had any blistering problems to speak of. I think that by the late 80's quite a bit was learned and those problems were over.
If it's in your price range, you might consider a later model. The C-30 design was upgraded in 1987 to incorporate many improvements over the earlier years model, including rigging upgrades, etc. Although by now you may find an older boat that has gone through numerous upgrades as well. Just a thought. I find the C-30 great for extended weekend cruising and week long cruising. Lots of room. I've not had any blistering problems to speak of. I think that by the late 80's quite a bit was learned and those problems were over.
Agree with Joe
The late 80s models are definitely the first choice, the biggest reason is that cuz they're sought after which will make (dare I say it?) resale easier. C30s are great for cruising in reasonably protected waters. They have TONS of room, are very comfy and can be had for a steal. It's a good choice if it works for you. LaDonna
The late 80s models are definitely the first choice, the biggest reason is that cuz they're sought after which will make (dare I say it?) resale easier. C30s are great for cruising in reasonably protected waters. They have TONS of room, are very comfy and can be had for a steal. It's a good choice if it works for you. LaDonna
Early 80 Issues and Advantages
I've got a 1983 Cat 30 TR, whgich we've had since new. Here are a few Pros/Cons about the early 80's Cat 30s: Pros: 1. Initial cost. I've been checking around, the average asking price for a 1983 Cat 30 seems to be between $23k to 25k. So they are quite a bit less expensive when compared to later models. 2. Engine Choices: In the ealy 80's Catalina changed engines as often as most of us change underwear. So, you can find the engine that's right for you. In my case I have the Universal 5411, 11hp diesel. With only 11 hp, I can cruise at above 5 knots and top out at 6 knots while sipping less then 1/4 gal. per hour. 3. Many early 80s Ct 30 have significant upgrades. Im my case I've replaced: standing rigging, running rigging, and had a full gelcoat peal and epoxy bottom put on, as wll as many other small upgrades. Cons: 1. BLISTERS: Yes, it's true that ealy 80's Cats blister. But blisters can be fixed, and are really cosmetic problems and do not weaken the structure. There seems to be a big debate going on now on whether they should even be fixed, let along how to fix them. 2. There were significant design changes starting in 1987. Many of these changes made the boat easier to sail, such as a flat traveler. But the earlier Cats can be upgraded to include almost all these changes. 3. Teak Spreaders: These can be DANGEROUS. They will often look fine from below and be BADLY rotten above. If you have a Cat 30 with the teak spreaders, replace them with aluminium or check regularly. 4. Resale: I know it's hard to think about selling your baby, but you have to consider it. The ealy 80's Cats are just that much harder to sell. Hope this helps some. I LOVE my 1983, I think she's perfect, I just wish I had roller furling.
I've got a 1983 Cat 30 TR, whgich we've had since new. Here are a few Pros/Cons about the early 80's Cat 30s: Pros: 1. Initial cost. I've been checking around, the average asking price for a 1983 Cat 30 seems to be between $23k to 25k. So they are quite a bit less expensive when compared to later models. 2. Engine Choices: In the ealy 80's Catalina changed engines as often as most of us change underwear. So, you can find the engine that's right for you. In my case I have the Universal 5411, 11hp diesel. With only 11 hp, I can cruise at above 5 knots and top out at 6 knots while sipping less then 1/4 gal. per hour. 3. Many early 80s Ct 30 have significant upgrades. Im my case I've replaced: standing rigging, running rigging, and had a full gelcoat peal and epoxy bottom put on, as wll as many other small upgrades. Cons: 1. BLISTERS: Yes, it's true that ealy 80's Cats blister. But blisters can be fixed, and are really cosmetic problems and do not weaken the structure. There seems to be a big debate going on now on whether they should even be fixed, let along how to fix them. 2. There were significant design changes starting in 1987. Many of these changes made the boat easier to sail, such as a flat traveler. But the earlier Cats can be upgraded to include almost all these changes. 3. Teak Spreaders: These can be DANGEROUS. They will often look fine from below and be BADLY rotten above. If you have a Cat 30 with the teak spreaders, replace them with aluminium or check regularly. 4. Resale: I know it's hard to think about selling your baby, but you have to consider it. The ealy 80's Cats are just that much harder to sell. Hope this helps some. I LOVE my 1983, I think she's perfect, I just wish I had roller furling.
C30 Upgrade Yes!
Thanks for the info, I'll keep looking and most likely upgrade this spring after I sell my C22 and C27. Thanks, Jim
Thanks for the info, I'll keep looking and most likely upgrade this spring after I sell my C22 and C27. Thanks, Jim
'77 C 30
I just purchaced a 1977 C 30 and love every inch of it. It's got an Atomic 4 and runs like a clock. There's not a spot of rot or blister on it. I was very fortunate to know the previous owner and he took very good care of this gem. Advice: don't be shy about asking the owner about his maintenance habits.
I just purchaced a 1977 C 30 and love every inch of it. It's got an Atomic 4 and runs like a clock. There's not a spot of rot or blister on it. I was very fortunate to know the previous owner and he took very good care of this gem. Advice: don't be shy about asking the owner about his maintenance habits.
- Status