Hi Dave, Congrats on your new Catalina. I didn't mean to imply anything negative about the mark II, in fact I think it is an excellent boat but it is not what I'm looking for. I only included that comment so that anyone answering my question would'nt have to waste a lot of time and space describing a model that I'm already farmilar with. Since you asked, let me tell you what I like and dislike about it. I like the new topside, the foredeck anchor locker is something I wish the older ones had. The relocation of the forward hatch from the deck to the front of the cabin trunk provides better ventalation and eliminates the tripping hazard, but it would be neater if it were like the ones on the C25. I don't care for the hinged pop top although I'm not sure why. The interior layout is a disapointment to me, everyone I 've talked to can't figure out why they messed with it. I suspect they changed it to remain competitive (the trend in recent years has been toward more open cabins) I think the table is too small for comfortable dining, you just about have to sit on the edge of the settee to reach your plate, but a hinged drop leaf could easily be fitted. I think they took the cheap way out with the split, sliding galley arangement, I'm sure they did this to preserve the open space, but I prefer the big one piece unit on the old style. I do like the way they incorporated the ice chest into the companionway step. The extra beam is nice but you lose the storage conpartments on each side. Now we come to price, although your new Catalina will retain it's value very well for many years, the fact is it will see it's biggest depreciation within the first two years even though it will probably still be in perfect condition. For this reason I will never buy a brand new boat. The mark II has only been around for five years and even a 1995 is still going to cost far more than I would be willing to pay. Even if the mark II was exactly what I wanted, I suspect a used one would be difficult to find for sale. Although the mark II is not for me, I'm glad that you are happy with yours, and I wish you many years of enjoyment from your new boat. Happy sailing, Shawn
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Thats ok !
Hi Shawn, yes I do have to agree with you on a couple of points, one about the table and reaching. I do however like the open cabin area though. The cost depreciation doesn't bother me as I don't look to sell " Nature's Cradle" any time soon. The Pop-Top isn't a big concern. The galley could use some improvement as well, different stove for one thing, but after looking at Macgregor which isn't even in the same class and a few others, for us it was a good choice. I hope you find the boat you want and I'm sure there is one out there with your name on it.It's just a matter of time before you find it. So Happy Sailing !!! and no ofense was taken here. Thats what makes the world go round. Dave
Hi Shawn, yes I do have to agree with you on a couple of points, one about the table and reaching. I do however like the open cabin area though. The cost depreciation doesn't bother me as I don't look to sell " Nature's Cradle" any time soon. The Pop-Top isn't a big concern. The galley could use some improvement as well, different stove for one thing, but after looking at Macgregor which isn't even in the same class and a few others, for us it was a good choice. I hope you find the boat you want and I'm sure there is one out there with your name on it.It's just a matter of time before you find it. So Happy Sailing !!! and no ofense was taken here. Thats what makes the world go round. Dave
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