Dear Catalina Owners of 310's I'm looking to upgrade my 1982 27' Catalina to a larger/newer boat. I have narrowed my choises to the Catalina 310 and I'm sorry for this, a Beneteau 331. What made you pick the 310 over your other choises? Is it better to buy a boat new or get one only a couple of years old?
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Jim
C310 Owner
I have a 2002 C-310. For me, it has been an excellent choice. The boat is roomy, sails well and is easy to handle (I have the roller furling main). The only downside that I've noticed, is since it's a heavy boat, it is a bit slow in light air with the standard 135% genoa. Once the breeze gets up to 9-10 knots, it moves pretty good. The engine power is good, the steering tracks well, and the build quality is good. I've had only a few minor things that needed dealer attention. I also looked at a Beneteau 311 and a 331. I decided on the C310 primarily because I liked the 310's interior and because I had had a previous good experience with Catalina.
I have a 2002 C-310. For me, it has been an excellent choice. The boat is roomy, sails well and is easy to handle (I have the roller furling main). The only downside that I've noticed, is since it's a heavy boat, it is a bit slow in light air with the standard 135% genoa. Once the breeze gets up to 9-10 knots, it moves pretty good. The engine power is good, the steering tracks well, and the build quality is good. I've had only a few minor things that needed dealer attention. I also looked at a Beneteau 311 and a 331. I decided on the C310 primarily because I liked the 310's interior and because I had had a previous good experience with Catalina.
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Frank A. Varisco
Thanks Jim
What I'm hearing sounds like personal preference. Did you buy new or used? did you outfit it yourself or let the factory do it?
What I'm hearing sounds like personal preference. Did you buy new or used? did you outfit it yourself or let the factory do it?
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John J
310
You are right, all boat choices are personal and emotional, if you don't think so start picking a Catalina over a Bennie, or a Hunter, the board lights up like a Christmas tree. We own hull #23, bought it new and she is in her third year of sailing. Like any boat there is usually something you need to fix, but so far nothing major. Ours had been a "boat show" boat, so most of the options were already included. I took a hard look at the 311,but had owned a C25 and decided to stay with Catalina, I have not regreted the choice. They have made a bunch of minor changes since the early hulls, so you will benefit from them. If I have one "wish" it would be for more storage.
You are right, all boat choices are personal and emotional, if you don't think so start picking a Catalina over a Bennie, or a Hunter, the board lights up like a Christmas tree. We own hull #23, bought it new and she is in her third year of sailing. Like any boat there is usually something you need to fix, but so far nothing major. Ours had been a "boat show" boat, so most of the options were already included. I took a hard look at the 311,but had owned a C25 and decided to stay with Catalina, I have not regreted the choice. They have made a bunch of minor changes since the early hulls, so you will benefit from them. If I have one "wish" it would be for more storage.
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Frank A. Varisco
Thanks John
Funny that you mentioned yours was a "boat show boat". One of the dealers I'm speaking with mentioned if I buy before Sept he would use it as a "show boat". What options are installed and if i may ask what "discount" did you get?
Funny that you mentioned yours was a "boat show boat". One of the dealers I'm speaking with mentioned if I buy before Sept he would use it as a "show boat". What options are installed and if i may ask what "discount" did you get?
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Ed Boudreau
A Personal Choice
My new 310 just arrived yesterday (hull #246). I can only tell you that I have spent three years researching dozens of boats (I probably have PHD time in this), including several other Catalinas (320 & 350). For me it came down to logical processes of elimination, where and how the boat would be used, ability to single-hand, quality of finish, ease of common service issues, etc. I have sailed the boat your looking at and its larger sisters -they are nice, but not to the quality of Catalina. Practical Sailor had a very through and fair shoot-out article on the big three Benny, Cat, Hunter - the 310 came out on top, but it is worth a read. Best of luck - I am sure you will love the choice you make, because it will be right for you. Ed.
My new 310 just arrived yesterday (hull #246). I can only tell you that I have spent three years researching dozens of boats (I probably have PHD time in this), including several other Catalinas (320 & 350). For me it came down to logical processes of elimination, where and how the boat would be used, ability to single-hand, quality of finish, ease of common service issues, etc. I have sailed the boat your looking at and its larger sisters -they are nice, but not to the quality of Catalina. Practical Sailor had a very through and fair shoot-out article on the big three Benny, Cat, Hunter - the 310 came out on top, but it is worth a read. Best of luck - I am sure you will love the choice you make, because it will be right for you. Ed.
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Frank A. Varisco
Thanks Ed
Three Years !!!! you must be ready for the Psych couch. I've found a dealer in Riverside N.J. who deals in both the Bennie & Catalina. Now I can spend a day and see them side by side. May I ask how you outfitted your boat? Factory installed options or other? Good luck with her and may you have calm seas and a seady breeze.
Three Years !!!! you must be ready for the Psych couch. I've found a dealer in Riverside N.J. who deals in both the Bennie & Catalina. Now I can spend a day and see them side by side. May I ask how you outfitted your boat? Factory installed options or other? Good luck with her and may you have calm seas and a seady breeze.
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Ed Boudreau
310 Specs & Options
Frank, if you will send me your direct e-mail (eboudreau@ccmcnet.com) I will share specs and pricing. Your idea of side-by-side is great. The Admiral and I were really torn between the C350 and C310. We spent 2 days at the Chicago Strictly Sail boat show. I was able to walk back and forth between the boats and spend several hours discussing fine points with the Catalina reps. Of course the other models are all represented and Hunter had a really nice display. I don't know if you can wait until the next boat show, but it is a great way to comparison shop. Ed.
Frank, if you will send me your direct e-mail (eboudreau@ccmcnet.com) I will share specs and pricing. Your idea of side-by-side is great. The Admiral and I were really torn between the C350 and C310. We spent 2 days at the Chicago Strictly Sail boat show. I was able to walk back and forth between the boats and spend several hours discussing fine points with the Catalina reps. Of course the other models are all represented and Hunter had a really nice display. I don't know if you can wait until the next boat show, but it is a great way to comparison shop. Ed.
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Jeff
Comparison
We bought a C320 last year, but we looked closely at the C310. We also looked at the Bene 331, and Jeanneau 32. On the positive side the C310 has the big V-berth, and the C310's cockpit has the primary winches closer to the helm than they are on the C320. The autohelm equalizes the winch placement issue for single handing the boat. Major negatives on the boats were the small main cabin on the 310, the small V-berth on the 331, and small everything on the Jeanneau. The French boats just don't come with the extensive equipment list, optional or standard, that a Catalina has. I owned a Catalina 22 and a Bene 29 prior to this, and found that Bene's factory assistance for parts or other issues was minimal as compared to Catalina's. That may not have changed as much as you would expext with the Bene's ASSEMBLED in the US. For us, the C310's main cabin was a big factor. It just doesn't have enough room for 2 people to stretch out and relax, or more people to comfortably sit out a hot day or a rain storm in comfort. After using the C320 for a season and a half, we are convinced that our decision was sound in that respect. The final consideration was that the C320 has been on the market long enough that there are slightly used models available for a very substantial discount over the price of a new boat. If price was not a factor, I still think I would have difficulty getting past the small cabin on the C310 and would go with the C320 or Bene 331, in that order. Jeff 1998 C320 #545
We bought a C320 last year, but we looked closely at the C310. We also looked at the Bene 331, and Jeanneau 32. On the positive side the C310 has the big V-berth, and the C310's cockpit has the primary winches closer to the helm than they are on the C320. The autohelm equalizes the winch placement issue for single handing the boat. Major negatives on the boats were the small main cabin on the 310, the small V-berth on the 331, and small everything on the Jeanneau. The French boats just don't come with the extensive equipment list, optional or standard, that a Catalina has. I owned a Catalina 22 and a Bene 29 prior to this, and found that Bene's factory assistance for parts or other issues was minimal as compared to Catalina's. That may not have changed as much as you would expext with the Bene's ASSEMBLED in the US. For us, the C310's main cabin was a big factor. It just doesn't have enough room for 2 people to stretch out and relax, or more people to comfortably sit out a hot day or a rain storm in comfort. After using the C320 for a season and a half, we are convinced that our decision was sound in that respect. The final consideration was that the C320 has been on the market long enough that there are slightly used models available for a very substantial discount over the price of a new boat. If price was not a factor, I still think I would have difficulty getting past the small cabin on the C310 and would go with the C320 or Bene 331, in that order. Jeff 1998 C320 #545
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Ed
There Are No Perfect Boats
This points out why there are different models for different needs. I looked at the 320 when considering the 310. Since I would be single-handing a lot, I did not like the location of the jib winches. We loved the extra room in the V berth, versus a larger salon - figuring the few times we would entertain aboard would mostly be in the cockpit. Also, with the smaller cocktail table in place, the salon really opens up nicely. I have not spent a great deal of time on a 320, but it appears to market more toward a family layout, versus the 310 is cetainly more of a couples boat. To each his own.
This points out why there are different models for different needs. I looked at the 320 when considering the 310. Since I would be single-handing a lot, I did not like the location of the jib winches. We loved the extra room in the V berth, versus a larger salon - figuring the few times we would entertain aboard would mostly be in the cockpit. Also, with the smaller cocktail table in place, the salon really opens up nicely. I have not spent a great deal of time on a 320, but it appears to market more toward a family layout, versus the 310 is cetainly more of a couples boat. To each his own.
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Frank A. Varisco
Thanks Ed & Jeff
Gentlemen, All points well taken. I'm leaning towards the 310 but want to see the Beneteau 331 & 310 side by side. There's a dealer in N.J. who just happens to sell both!! Also, i received a return phone call from non other than Mr. Frank Butler of Catalina Yachts. What other boat mfg. would have their president return phone calls.
Gentlemen, All points well taken. I'm leaning towards the 310 but want to see the Beneteau 331 & 310 side by side. There's a dealer in N.J. who just happens to sell both!! Also, i received a return phone call from non other than Mr. Frank Butler of Catalina Yachts. What other boat mfg. would have their president return phone calls.
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Jim Wolfgram
320 singlehanding.
We just picked up a 320 and are so far thrilled to pieces with it. We sail on the SF bay (High winds, plenty of chop), and I've found the boat to be pretty easy to singlehand. When tacking, I move to the front of the wheel getting easy access to the primary winches and still having access to the wheel. Not sure if this is the best approach, but it works pretty well until I get a chance to add an autopilot.
We just picked up a 320 and are so far thrilled to pieces with it. We sail on the SF bay (High winds, plenty of chop), and I've found the boat to be pretty easy to singlehand. When tacking, I move to the front of the wheel getting easy access to the primary winches and still having access to the wheel. Not sure if this is the best approach, but it works pretty well until I get a chance to add an autopilot.
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Jeff
Tacking
Jim, Even with an autohelm, I work from the front of the wheel on my 320 during single handed maneuvers. This is necessary on either the 310 or 320 so that you can adjust both main and jib. In fact, during steady state cruising, I still spend most of my time in front of the wheel for the same reason. This is why I think that some peoples opinions about the 310 being easier to single hand are not well founded. I would still be up forward of the wheel even if the winches were located farther aft. Jeff
Jim, Even with an autohelm, I work from the front of the wheel on my 320 during single handed maneuvers. This is necessary on either the 310 or 320 so that you can adjust both main and jib. In fact, during steady state cruising, I still spend most of my time in front of the wheel for the same reason. This is why I think that some peoples opinions about the 310 being easier to single hand are not well founded. I would still be up forward of the wheel even if the winches were located farther aft. Jeff
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John J
310
Came with, Microwave Linens Ultra Leather ST60 wind, depth, speed stereo CD and we added a full cockpit bimini, a godsend in Atlanta.
Came with, Microwave Linens Ultra Leather ST60 wind, depth, speed stereo CD and we added a full cockpit bimini, a godsend in Atlanta.
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RonD
Another C320 choice
I too went with the C320 (#831) rather than the 310. The C310 seemed too claustrophobic for my liking, but I generally cruise with a crew of 2 or 3 plus myself; for just two people cruising (or maybe 3), the 310 might be fine. I suspect the 310 & 320 are generally similar in regard to performance & options. .... Again, the 320 has an ample "owner" (stern) cabin, a V-berth that I can stretch out my 6'2" frame in, and the larger salon that sleeps a few as well. (Actually, I often prefer sleeping on the port salon bench.) Storage is adequate for short cruises (7-8 days) with a crew of four. I have not even bothered to attempt to shower in the head! A lot of cleanup required and very limited maneuvering room. Sponge baths the rule at sea or on the hook; a marina every few days for a real shore shower! The holding tank capacity with any sort of crew can be a problem; pump out often. The boat handles quite nicely under sail or power. With the 135% Genoa, it doesn't move too well in very light air (a whisker pole would probably help), but I've rolled it up to 100-110% and reefed the main and rode very comfortably in 28-33 knot breezes. 12 to 18 knots of wind is ideal. Fairly stiff, too. With DonG's book-learning (Sail Trim Forum) I can balance the boat well enough to leave the wheel hands-off for extended periods. Under power, I find the engine noise is excessive. When cruising, we often must resort to running under power to make it through the Cape Cod Canal or Wood's Hole or the like to keep on a tight schedule port-to-port. I got the 3-blade prop for extra power while cruising or maneuvering in harbor. We don't really notice any significant drag while it's locked under sail, but I've never actually checked it against another boat. Don't much care, since we don't race. The 27HP Yanmar is adequate for the size boat, but performance drops off in any sort of stiff headwind/wave situation. Last year we left Portland, ME with a full tank and had to motor all night at 2800 rpm into 23-28 knot winds on the nose & 3-5 ft seas; barely maintaining 3.6 knots. Almost ran out of fuel by the time we got to Gloucester, MA. In less stressing conditions, it just sips fuel at 2500 rpm and can run at 5.8 - 6.0 knots. I looked at installing sound suppression material, but figured the job too difficult for any potential return -- just not a lot of room "under the hood" and it would involve much custom fitting in awkward places; a lot of stuff had to be unmounted on the port engine compartment "wall," too. The engine belts & pulleys are very close to the forward engine cover (under the ladder) too. The aft cover has complex curves difficult to fit. If ordering a boat from the factory, ask about having them do an installation as an option. SoundDown in Marblehead makes good stuff for that purpose (link); make sure you use sound suppression material with an appropriate heat/fire rating. I have an integrated Raytheon Autopilot, GPS, Radar, Chartplotter, Wind, Depth, & Speed package. Works great! Wednesday I sailed almost 20 miles up Cape Cod Bay and through the Boston shipping lanes in pea-soup fog and we maintained terrific situation awareness. The decision to invest in that gear was worth every penny that day. We also have a dodger that keeps the rain off the deck crew and (usually) out of the cabin. In sunnier locations, the bimini would be another good option. Hope that helps you decide. Catalina builds a great boat for the money. --RonD
I too went with the C320 (#831) rather than the 310. The C310 seemed too claustrophobic for my liking, but I generally cruise with a crew of 2 or 3 plus myself; for just two people cruising (or maybe 3), the 310 might be fine. I suspect the 310 & 320 are generally similar in regard to performance & options. .... Again, the 320 has an ample "owner" (stern) cabin, a V-berth that I can stretch out my 6'2" frame in, and the larger salon that sleeps a few as well. (Actually, I often prefer sleeping on the port salon bench.) Storage is adequate for short cruises (7-8 days) with a crew of four. I have not even bothered to attempt to shower in the head! A lot of cleanup required and very limited maneuvering room. Sponge baths the rule at sea or on the hook; a marina every few days for a real shore shower! The holding tank capacity with any sort of crew can be a problem; pump out often. The boat handles quite nicely under sail or power. With the 135% Genoa, it doesn't move too well in very light air (a whisker pole would probably help), but I've rolled it up to 100-110% and reefed the main and rode very comfortably in 28-33 knot breezes. 12 to 18 knots of wind is ideal. Fairly stiff, too. With DonG's book-learning (Sail Trim Forum) I can balance the boat well enough to leave the wheel hands-off for extended periods. Under power, I find the engine noise is excessive. When cruising, we often must resort to running under power to make it through the Cape Cod Canal or Wood's Hole or the like to keep on a tight schedule port-to-port. I got the 3-blade prop for extra power while cruising or maneuvering in harbor. We don't really notice any significant drag while it's locked under sail, but I've never actually checked it against another boat. Don't much care, since we don't race. The 27HP Yanmar is adequate for the size boat, but performance drops off in any sort of stiff headwind/wave situation. Last year we left Portland, ME with a full tank and had to motor all night at 2800 rpm into 23-28 knot winds on the nose & 3-5 ft seas; barely maintaining 3.6 knots. Almost ran out of fuel by the time we got to Gloucester, MA. In less stressing conditions, it just sips fuel at 2500 rpm and can run at 5.8 - 6.0 knots. I looked at installing sound suppression material, but figured the job too difficult for any potential return -- just not a lot of room "under the hood" and it would involve much custom fitting in awkward places; a lot of stuff had to be unmounted on the port engine compartment "wall," too. The engine belts & pulleys are very close to the forward engine cover (under the ladder) too. The aft cover has complex curves difficult to fit. If ordering a boat from the factory, ask about having them do an installation as an option. SoundDown in Marblehead makes good stuff for that purpose (link); make sure you use sound suppression material with an appropriate heat/fire rating. I have an integrated Raytheon Autopilot, GPS, Radar, Chartplotter, Wind, Depth, & Speed package. Works great! Wednesday I sailed almost 20 miles up Cape Cod Bay and through the Boston shipping lanes in pea-soup fog and we maintained terrific situation awareness. The decision to invest in that gear was worth every penny that day. We also have a dodger that keeps the rain off the deck crew and (usually) out of the cabin. In sunnier locations, the bimini would be another good option. Hope that helps you decide. Catalina builds a great boat for the money. --RonD
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GG
All Night Bash
U wrote: ''we left Portland, ME with a full tank and had to motor all night at 2800 rpm into 23-28 knot winds on the nose and 3-5 ft seas; barely maintaining 3.6 knots. Almost ran out of fuel by the time we got to Gloucester, MA. In less stressing conditions...'' Stressing conditions? Ran out of fuel? ...barely maintaing X knots...? Did it ever occur to you to SAIL the ((&/&$%&%§$!"$$/&/ boat? 23 to 28 winds, even if true, are nothing for a boat with that ability. And it would have been much more comfortable sailing at an angle across the waves. 'Had to motor?' Who HAD to and why? I'm sorry, I just don't get it when sailboats are knocked for trying to be powerboats, even if you still love your boat, what could have been a wonderful trip ends up sounding like bad news. Again, sorry for being negative, perhaps you could explain why you had (HAD) to motor instead of sail. PS Glad you made it, and glad you still enjoy your boat.
U wrote: ''we left Portland, ME with a full tank and had to motor all night at 2800 rpm into 23-28 knot winds on the nose and 3-5 ft seas; barely maintaining 3.6 knots. Almost ran out of fuel by the time we got to Gloucester, MA. In less stressing conditions...'' Stressing conditions? Ran out of fuel? ...barely maintaing X knots...? Did it ever occur to you to SAIL the ((&/&$%&%§$!"$$/&/ boat? 23 to 28 winds, even if true, are nothing for a boat with that ability. And it would have been much more comfortable sailing at an angle across the waves. 'Had to motor?' Who HAD to and why? I'm sorry, I just don't get it when sailboats are knocked for trying to be powerboats, even if you still love your boat, what could have been a wonderful trip ends up sounding like bad news. Again, sorry for being negative, perhaps you could explain why you had (HAD) to motor instead of sail. PS Glad you made it, and glad you still enjoy your boat.
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