Catalina Capri 18 vs. O'Day 20

[w t wilson]

I am a novice sailor who got chased away from my motorcycle by an overprotective wife. Traded my motorcycle dollars for a neglected 74 O'Day 20 (centerboard) that is a fun project but still months away from getting wet. While looking for a suitable outboard, I bought a Suzuki DT4, with an 87 Catalina Capri 18 (shallow draft keel) attached to it. The Catalina is pristine and ready to sail. One boat stays, one boat goes to e-bay or craigslist. I will be doing (1)lake sailing, (2)solo often, (3)considering a marina slip for easy access (4) have suitable trailers for each. Not in a hurry.Which is the keeper and which is the throwback?

 

[Tim22902]

Easy.....

..........Keep the one that's ready to go. You will get about 20 cents of every dollar you put into the fixerupper back when you sell it. Learn to sail on the capri and put as little into it as possible. If you are like 99% of us here, you will be looking for a bigger boat soon. Tim

 

[Kris13969]

Capri 18 would be my choice

I own a capri 22. The capri 18 is newer and ready to go. I have seen some out sailing on windy days, they do pretty well. I read a review once for hunter 18, capri 18 and some others. They had all the boats out at once and together. The capri 18 was the faster and more stable of them all.

 

[Steve677]

Easy to handle...

I've owned an O'Day 20. I've sailed a Catalina 18 as well. Both are easy to sail single handed. The 18 is easier to step the mast on, easier to trailer, less maintenance due to the fixed wing. Keep the Catalina. The lack of a bulkhead in the Catalina more than compensates for the two foot loss in the cabin. It was a bear getting in and out of the v-berth on the O'Day. The Catalina may even be a little faster...