Catalina 30 - 1985 vs. 1987 - is it worth it

[AD]

I am in the market for a Catalina 30 (currently an owner of a catalina 27) and I wanted to know if it is really worth it to pay more for the 1986-88 model years vs. the 1980-1985 model years. Does anyone have feedback they can share on what the differences are and if it is really worth it.

 

[Dan]

Worth it

Check this link. The Mark II has a T shaped cockpit which is nice for the Helmsman, the Traveler is flat. The Mark IIs may have CNG stove and oven, not alcohol, The key is get the 25XP diesel. The other diesel is too small. For a low price get one with an atomic 4. The condition of the boat is more important than which particular variant. A beat -up mark II. is worse than a nice Mark one. Narrow down your search based on cost and condition and get a professional survey. But the Mark II reprsents a lot of good improvments to a nice boat as the marketplace reflects.

 

[John]

OLDIE BUT GOODIE

Hi. I have a Cat 30 1977 with TRBS and tiller. I wouldnt trade it for a newer model. I like the open cockpit and tiller. Lots of room and i dont have to jog around a wheel or t cockpit. It is a fresh water boat and i am the 4th owner. It sails great and has all the past upgrades. Cost.... much less than a 85 vintage and is in great shape. Have a small diesel but no tide current to worry about and it is adequate power. Good luck

 

[Stephen K]

Had the same dilema...

AD,You asked about specific differences. The MKII model came out in 1986 and here are a few improvements that I am aware of...maybe others can chime in with more:1. "T" shaped cockpit2. updated mast compression post (have read about some issues with the wood support in the older boats, but nothing that can't be fixed)3. updated and larger engine4. updated wiring configuaration behind the AC/DC panel...simplified5. seperate battery storage compartment in stbd. settee6. a cosmetic change with countertops updated to white laminate vs. "wood" color.7. line controls for reefing brought to the cockpit8. improved traveller to "flat" track from curved and better blocks - Garhaurer9. choice of a wing keel...if desired.Your next question was "is it worth it"...only you can answer that based on how important these features are to you. For me, a wheel, "T" cockpit and walk thru transom were important, so I bought a 1992 model. Either way, you are going to have a great boat. They all sail pretty much the same and are solid...the only differences are the features. As others told me (and I agree) buy the best conditioned model that you can find... and get a good survey!