Re: Is a Catalina 30 a good cruising boat for the Carribbean
Over 7000 Catalina 30 hulls have been produced so you have to wonder if any of the owners have tried an ocean crossing, rounded the Cape or set out in the roaring 40's! Nuts, if you ask me.
I had my first ocean test of the Catalina 30 when a buddy of mine and I took his dad's 1983 model out from Pensacola to Destin, Florida. The seas were running about 5-6 feet and the breeze was fresh around 15+. We were about 5 miles offshore and all I could remember is that bow slamming into the swell and resonating like an egg about to crack open. That's when I realize how light and thin the 30 was. Granted she drove well and we got to our destination just fine, but that experience of having to wonder if this vessel was going to crack open left a mark. How would she react in real open ocean conditions (rough seas)?
Years before we chartered a Morgan 41 Out Island out of Fort Lauderdale and sailed throughout the Bahamas, even shirting hurricane Bob. The 41 has a bad reputation for slow speed to windward but her weight and strength was a confidence builder. What a strong ship she was.
I am not comparing apples to oranges here, as the real mark of the sailor is the amount of scrot he will apply to the endeavor. Anyone with the right amount of courage can take a West Wight Potter around the world, but for me and the years I have sailed, venturing far off shore in a Catalina 30 would bring me far less comfort and confidence then say a Cape Dory, Island Packet, etc, etc, etc. I own a 1988 Catalina 30 Mark II and she is splendid on the lake and certainly will be the right boat for coastal cruising; however, my wife and I say NO to extended cruising offshore in her. To me besides her wonderful large interior, ease of handling from the cockpit, etc, the 30 is just too light and tender.
I do admire you though for your working on making your dream come true. Please, do not forget the drogue sea anchor if your taking on the big one.
My 2-cents
Bob
'88 Cat 30 Mark II