The catalina 250WB vs. Hunter H260

[e714753]

My situation is a little different from the most people in the market for a used WB boat. Unlike most, I do not need to trailer a WB boat and only need this type of boat because of the draft.The less than 2 foot draft offered on either of these boats is what is appealing due to the creek that I live on leading to the Chesapeake Bay. I would like it to be docked at my house through the summer and winter and keep from having to break down the mast/furler by draining the ballast tank during the winter to winterize it (and NOT sail it). Is it possible to trailer the boat (at the boat ramp) in the late fall just to drain the ballast tank, move it to my dock (about a distance of 100 yards), and store it moored at my dock??? When Spring time roles aroung I would then open the valve to allow water to flow into the ballast tank and be ready for the sailing season. Is this senerio possible on either of these boats?

BTW, I am about 80% leaning towards the purchase of the H260 due to the extra room it offers over the 250WB and faster hull speed, light air sailability from the "roachy main", commonality of the wheel steering, and the larger boat feel.

Insight on my situation is appreciated.

Bobby

 

[Hugh Straub]

Hi Bobby

The problem I see with your plan is keeping water out of your empty ballast tank, with the boat in the water. While the drain gasket is pretty tight, I'm sure there is some seepage which over time would refill the tank. Also, there is no easy way to drain the tank absent hauling the boat. If your creek freezes in a cold snap, that could damage the hull, even if the tank is empty. I don't know about insurance during the winter on the Chesapeake...I'm pretty sure insurance ends at the end of October for boats in waters farther north.

Also, while the centerboard/water ballast results in shallow draft capability, the rudder is pretty deep. If the rudder is not in its vertical down position, but instead is being used in a kicked up, shallow draft mode, the rudder must be used gently, as the stress on the rudder head can cause the rudder blade to break.

Finally be aware with the centerboard raised, the boat's high topsides and shallow draft make it difficult to maneuver, especially in any meaningful cross wind.

I don't intend this note as a downer, I very much like my water ballasted boat which I keep in the water except in the summer. I simply offer some thoughts based on my experience. I'm sure others will share their insights.

Kindest regards

Hugh
New Orleans

 

[twodzusfittings]

I know little about water ballasted boats, but it seems to me with the absence of ballast, there might be tendencies for an unstable hull with possible roll over under heavy winds, even at anchor or dockage.

To combat the ice, you need to bubble the water using a Kastco De Icer. You can use them with a thermostatic switch (which comes extra) or a timer /thermostatic switch (also extra). This will keep the water under the water moving and avoid it from freezing. You'll need power at the dock. Or you can run power direct and manually switch on and off.

 

[jcrumpley]

You should consider a late model hunter H25. No water ballast to deal with and still only a 2 foot draft. The shoal keel is flat and wide on the bottom. It isn't quite as large as a 260, but pretty close. It has a kick up rudder as well, even with the model with the steering wheel.

 

[shanker]

Bobby, I went through the same decision process before I purchased my H260. I compared the Mac 26X, The Cat 260 and the H260. The Mac just wasn't what I wanted with a 50 hp motor hanging off the stern. Nothing wrong with them, just didn't work for me. That brought me to the Cat vs the Hunter. I went with the Hunter mainly because of the larger cockpit. Most of our time is spent there and with friends on board it really makes a difference. I also find the cabin to be noticeably larger with the Hunter. The quality of both boats I find to be a step above the MacGregors and as far as between the Cat and Hunter there isn't much difference. Both are very well built for their size and price range.

I seem to remember the Hunter had a much larger ballast tank which I assumed would help make it less tender than the Cat. This may have an impact on what you want to do with the winter slip idea. The sugar scoop transom is also a feature that I love and really comes in handy for my sailing. I love my H260 and do not regret the decision at all.

Hope this helps.

 

[seadaddler]

Flooding

My friend did live shore line of Virginia and he told me he is
so glad he moved to florida because of storms and flooding of his house.
Nice area and purchased my first Hunter from dealer in Deltaville and nice dealer also but as said go for a trailer for winter and only talked to Crazy Dave
on phone but very honest and was very helpful.
Nick

 

[MaxinCalgary]

Shanker ,
It was the same process for me. I love the cockpit of the 260. I can stand and move around . Everybody does not have to be seated . My wife and daughter can stretch out and still not get in the way too much. I like the look of the boat from the stern. Too boxy from the bow but everything is a compromise in boats. For a trailer sailer you get a 30 ft boats cockpit . So to fit that into a 26 plan makes it look a bit squat.

 

[isaksp00]

Do you have room near your dock to store it on the trailer, with the mast up? That's what I'd do, no matter what you get, assuming you buy a trailer and also have space.

 

[Brian M H23]

The main reason for a water ballast boat is that it is light out of the water. There are many sailboats with weighted centerboards or fixed shoal keels that would suit your needs as well!

Also, something like a hunter 23 wing keel, has a fixed draft of 2' and can actually sail in shallow water. A WB boat with the foils retracted is a poor sailboat at best