For what its worth
Richard, I've never sailed a Catalina. I sailed a 12 foot dingy for about 6 years. Then last August I bought an O'day 25. I find it easy to sail single handed and am only now running lines aft. The boat seems stable to me. I have the centerboard model. In wind below 10mph I don't drop the board and it seems to sail fine. The cockpit is comfortable, previous owner made nice cushions. I'm 5'10" and can't stand straight up unless the hatch is open but have only daysailed so far but plan to weekend this spring. My boat had been well maintained and was a steal compared to the prices of other comparable boats. Enjoy whatever you buy.Later,Mike