Potential Crusing of Catalina 30's

[Finn]

I am thinking of looking at Catalinas ( probably 30 foot range ) as a first boat for doing some cruising on the SW coast of Florida. Can someone tell me what the potential a Catalina of this size has for this? I'm talking about spending a few weeks at a time of this boat. And I guess I would also like to know the difference between the Catalina 30 and the Mk11?? Does either come with a shoal draft ( about 4 feet ) ?? Thanks much

 

[patrick e. boole]

DRAFT

i have a wing keel cat. 30 and find it has enough room to keep me happy. you have to get up to the 100,000 bracket in boats to get the romm this one has. the wing keel draws less the 4 foot and if people tell you that it doesn't point as high and other problems, laugh them off. great boat.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Planet Catalina]

Look around

You should be able to look around and find a C30 (I agree it should be a wing keel) in good condition for a good price. The nice thing about these boats is that there were enough made to allow for a wide range of prices. Don't buy the first one that comes along unless it's primo. Do your homework & know what features you want. You'll know THE boat when it comes along. Have fun but beware of hurricanes!LaDonna

 

[Gary Powers]

Cruise the Catalina

I have lived on a 27 O'Day for 19 years and recently purchased a Catalina 30,1988. It is an incredibly spacious and comfortable boat. My Wife and daughter live aboard with me. Go for it.

 

[Larry N]

Cruising the 30

I agree that the Catalina 30 is a good choice for extended cruising in SW Florida. I lived aboard mine fro 2 years and cruised between Appalachicola and Key West. The wing keel's draft will get you into most of the good gunkholes, and the boat has plenty of range and room. Invest in good screens!