What are the weaknesses of a '88 Catalina 30?

[shfrantz]

I have a contract on a '88 Catalina 30 (Hull No 5210) that was commission 1/88. It has spent most of its life in New Mexico and may have been trailered for some time. It has a wing keel and is a standard rig. I am not familiar with this boat type. Are there issues I need to know about that compromise this purchase? I am buying it for $24,000. The last barrier coat was put on in'95; the main sale is burned because it is part of the "ZipStop" self-flaking system and must be replaced (I am thinking about adding a Dutchman System to the new main). However, it is immaculate inside and out, has a waterheater, pressure-pump shower, a Navigator 2000 Compass, an AutoMAC Alternator Control (#10171 with 100 Ammeter and Shunt), a Signet Marine SmartPak SL60, a SeaWard butane-powered stove/oven, and a NorthSail Roller-Furling system for the 110 Jib. Were these options for this model or standard equipment? And finally, there are 371 hrs on the 23 hp Universal 3 cylinder diesel. Any insights/feedback one can give me would be appreciated. Thanks.Steven

 

[dworfel]

Things to Look For

Steve, In general the Catalina 30 is a great boat. I have a tall rig '88 Mark II and love the boat. My best recommendation with regard to your purchase is get the boat surveyed by a qualified marine surveyor. Even though cosmetically the boat may look good there may be hidden problems. I'd want to make sure there are no moisture problems in the deck (around the chain plates, shrouds, mast step etc.) I had a problem with low moisture that got into my mast step area (yes the surveyor noted the problem). It was a lot of work but I fixed the problem. The problem itself (my opinion a design flaw in the boat) was caused by rain water running down the electrical wires in the mast and working into the wood core via way of the PVC pipe that carries wiring down from the mast and into the boat. Again...a good survey will find those types of problems.Dave

 

[Ron2533]

Catalina #0

WE bought hull #5121 last year, and have sailed and cruised her extensively. I am happy to say we found the boat to be far better than expected in quality of construction, and sailing performance. We found no unique problems. The wing keel was a new factor,but has proved to be no different in performance. Your boat seems to be well equiped, and the price quoted would be considered a real bargain in this area. The engine with such low hours is an unusual plus. Enjoy your new boat Ron B

 

[Dan C30]

sounds like a deal

have her surveyed and if OK, grab her! we love our C30.

 

[Blanco]

Weakness of '88 Catalina 30

Dan, Ron and Dave,Thank ya'll for your very helpful feedback.Steven