Keel Type

[Bill]

I'm looking to move up from my 27' Catalina to a 30'. I'm interested in a 1978 tall rig but it has a keel thats 4'4". How does this keel perform compared to a fin keel? Also what problems did this year boat have?

 

[Kevin Dykema]

shoal keel 30

I have a 1977 with the 4'4" shoal keel. While I have not sailed it against the standard keel, I can say that it is quite satisfactory. If you are going to be racing you probably want the deeper keel. If shallow water is a concern where you are going to be sailing, it is nice to have the extra 11". The boat is very stable and forgiving. You can't get in too much trouble. I have had mine for 3 years and have been very pleased.The wooden spreaders if you have them might need to be replaced . Catalina sells an aluminum replacement kit which I had installed by the local Catalina dealer when I bought the boat. The only other problem I have encountered is a crack where the keel attaches to the hull. This is not a major concern and is fairly common with Catalinas. The dealer is going to repair it for about $500.This is a nice boat. I think you will be very happy with it.

 

[David Sandowich]

SHOAL DRAFT

AS WITH EVERYTHING IN LIFE THERE ARE GAINS AND LOSSES. I HAVE A 85 CAT 30 WITH SHOAL DRAFT. I SAIL THE UPPPER CHESEPEAKE AND THE 4-4 DRAFT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD. THE TRADE OFF.. NOT TO IMPRESSIVE WINDARD PERFORMATNCE. FROM A CLOSE REACH ON DOWN SHE IS AWESOME. RATHER HAVE TO TAKE A FEW MORE TACKS THEN BE STUCK IN THE MUCK!