Larger Catalina sterns versus older version

[Ted Mendes]

I am interested in purchasing a used Catalina 42. For the 1995 model and onwards the stern were made wider as well as other modifications. What is the major advantage of the newer wider stern versus the older more narrow sterns. Are there any other significant benefits from the model 95 year onwards relative to the previous years. Thanks

 

[Rodney]

C-42 MkII

Ted, the cockpits on the Mk IIs are dramatically larger, the stern pulpit incorporates the stern seats, and the Mk I's tendency to collect water on the swim platform was corrected. The most important difference was the rudder. The Mk IIs have a deep eliptical rudder vs the Mk I's "barn door" rudder. The newer rudder makes the boat easier to steer and developes less weather helm as the wind pipes up. Check out the C-42 website's message board for more info.Rodney1997 C-42 Mk II, #567

 

[Ted Mendes]

Thanks Rodney, looks like your recommendation would be to buy the one wih the wider stern ! Which is what I am leaning to myself.