catalina 28 sailboat review

Catalina 28

First impressions Designed by Gerry Douglas and his in-house design team, the 28 sports the distinct Catalina profile. The sheerline is flat, the bow overhang is moderate, the broad transom is reversed and there is ample freeboard. The sloping cabintrunk extends well into the foredeck and the dark portlights are vintage Catalina. This is a big 28-foot boat, and not just because the LOA is actually 28 feet, 6 inches. The beam is a healthy 10 feet, 2 inches and it's carried well aft, especially in the MK II, and the bilges are full, creating a voluminous hull. Below the waterline, the forefoot is relatively shallow, the fin keel angles aft and the rudder is balanced, another example of Catalina's well-honed hull shape that provides decent performance through a range of conditions. The standard draft is 5 feet, 3 inches, however, the 3-foot, 8-inch shoal-draft wing keel was a popular option and seems to be widely available on the used boat market. The iron ballast weighs in at 3,200 pounds for the standard fin keel model, the wing keel is slightly heavier. The fin keel model displaces 8,300 pounds. A double-spreader sloop, the 28 was offered with either a standard or a tall rig. By most accounts the boat is stiff in a blow, and unless you sail on San Francisco Bay, the tall rig, which has an air draft of 44 feet, 4 inches, is the preferred option. The fin-keel standard-rig 28 has a sail area-to-displacement ratio of 14.21, while the tall rig bumps it up to 15.46. Either way, the 28 will not be a demon in light air.

Construction Catalina uses its production scale to build boats efficiently. For example, they use the same hatches and deck fittings on several different models, streamlining production costs and for the most part, passing savings on to consumers. That does not mean the company's boats are not well built. On the contrary, while smaller Catalinas less than 40 feet are not specifically built for crossing oceans, they hold up very well under most cruising conditions. And of course, plenty of Catalinas have completed impressive bluewater voyages, including circumnavigations. Catalina owners are loyal. It is safe to say that more owners stay with Catalinas when they move up to a larger model than with any other manufacturer. This simply would not be the case if its boats were poorly built. The 28's construction is fairly typical of the entire Catalina line. The hull is solid fiberglass, hand layed and the deck is balsa cored. The hull and deck are joined with an overlapping, shoe box joint that also incorporates the aluminum toerail. This is a good technique for limiting leaks but it does expose this critical joint to side impacts. The bulkheads are marine plywood with hardwood veneers. The bulkheads are slotted into the deck liner as molded liners are used throughout the boat. Over the years I have observed that some of the secondary bonding is not as robust as it might be. The iron keel is externally fastened. Fiberglass stringers stiffen the hull and provide athwartship support.

What to look for The first item to consider is whether or not the MK II is worth the extra money, typically you will pay 25 to 35 percent more than an original 28. Several changes were introduced with the updated model in late 1995. The aft hull section was widened slightly, making the aft cabin more commodious. The galley was redesigned and sail controls were fine tuned. John Cairns, who sails Talisman, a 1992 Catalina 28, on Lake Erie, says with a laugh, "They addressed all my petty concerns with the MK II." Some of those issues include an inaccessible refrigeration compartment, inadequate locker latches, the location of the batteries in the stern and poor ventilation in the aft cabin. Cairns is right, these are slight problems and easily corrected. "Overall," he told me, "I am impressed with the boat, it has held up very well." Other owners have reported gelcoat cracking and crazing and annoying leaks, including around the base of the pedestal.

On deck The Catalina 28 has a terrific T-shaped cockpit with wheel steering, and there is room for four adults to sit comfortably while under way. The 32-inch destroyer wheel is by Edson and the primary winches are Lewmar 30s. The walk-through transom allows easy access to the water and the dinghy via a narrow stern platform and the ladder cleverly folds up to form the stern rail. The mainsheet traveler is forward, over the companionway, and although this creates a lot of load on the boom, it really opens up the cockpit and allows easy companionway access. Most 28s will have all sail controls led aft, including a single-line reefing system. I have used this system on several different Catalina models over the years and am not a big fan of it because a single-line system has to overcome too much friction. I think it's faster and ultimately safer to reef the main from the base of the mast where the leverage is best. Because the aft cabin is tucked beneath the cockpit there isn't a cockpit locker. New models however have wonderful seats mounted on the stern rail, a great perch when under sail. The 28 has fairly wide side decks and the chainplates are mounted inboard for easy maneuvering and tight sheeting angles. The original 28s have teak handrails on the coachroof, while the newer boats have stainless steel. In fact, the elimination of all exterior brightwork was one of the successes of the MK II design. The deck-stepped mast is well supported with fore and aft lower shrouds, a rare sight these days. Check around the mast base for deck depression, a factor if the rig has been over tightened. Catalina was one of the first builders to make double lifelines standard and the stanchions and pulpits are well supported on the 28, although they could be a bit taller.

Down below The interior layout offers two genuine sleeping cabins, a spacious saloon, a full galley and head and a nav station, all in a 28-foot boat. "Two couples can comfortably cruise the boat, at least for awhile," Cairn said. The forward V-berth is good sized and an overhead hatch provides ventilation. This hatch is located on the sloping section of the trunkhouse, which makes it good for catching air and water. It needs to be dogged while under way. The saloon has facing settees and a centerline table that drapes the mast compression post. With the table open four people can eat in style. The galley is immediately to starboard an includes a large sink, plenty of counter space, and in most cases, a two-burner stove. Be wary of pressurized alcohol stoves on the older models. Also, the icebox, which is under the nav desk, is deep and difficult to access. The head is opposite the galley and includes a shower. Most boats will have hot and cold pressure water. The aft cabin is entered from behind the galley and offers an athwartship double bunk. The only ventilation on the original 28 was through a small port opening into the cockpit. A couple of 12-volt cabin fans will help with this problem. Elegant yet functional, the interior workmanship is surprisingly nice.

Engine The first 28s were fitted with Universal M3-20 diesels, while the later models have been upgraded to 3-cylinder, 26-horsepower Universal model 25XS. Access to the engine is excellent although the sound insulation needs to be improved on older models. Access to the stuffing box is through the aft cabin and requires tearing the berth apart to reach. Cairns said that his Universal 20 pushes the boat along at 5 knots at 2,000 rpm. And it's economical. "I haven't used a tankful of fuel yet in a season, and I use the boat a lot. Of course I sail whenever I can," he said. Fuel capacity is 19 gallons.

Under way "What I like best about my boat is the way she sails," said Cairns, an experienced sailor who recently sailed around Cape Horn. "But not in my 28," he hastened to add. In a 10-knot beam reach the boat balances very well. "That's why I haven't purchased an autopilot, I can leave the wheel and she'll steer herself for extended periods." Cairns said that the helm is light in most conditions, even hard on the wind. The boat is relatively close winded and has a nice turn of speed off the wind. Cairns says he thinks about shortening sail when wind hits 17 to 18 knots but that things don't get to be handful until the wind is steady more than 20 knots. Several owners note that the 28 is stiff in a blow, making it an ideal boat for a family or new sailor as it does not require micromanagement.

Conclusion The Catalina 28 is a perfect example of why sailing should be more popular, there isn't much not to like about this boat. It isn't an offshore cruiser and it isn't going to win races. It is, however, an affordable cruiser that's easy to sail and comfortable on deck and below. The Catalina 28 should be high on your list if you're looking for a used boat in the $30,000 to $40,000 range.

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• Yachting Monthly
• Digital edition

Catalina 28

• July 9, 2009

Introduced in 1990, this model has sold more than 670. Like many of the catalina range, she has an aft cabin that runs athwartships,which frees up space for an unusually large heads and galley without cramping the saloon. The orientation does not appeal to all-you may not like it in a rolly anchorage, and it’s not ideal for sleeping on passage-but people who have lived it with genrally like it. The saloon has two straight settee-berths, but minimal stowage. The forecabin also offers a couple of bunks but little else. The masthead rig is conservative in area-another common feature of the range-and she is easy to handle, but not exceptionally quick. The tidied-up Mk2 version has optional taller rig, and there also options for deep andwing keel configurations.

LOA 8.69m (28ft 6in), LWL 7.26m (23ft 10in), beam 3.15m (10ft 4in), draught 1.57m (5ft 2in), displacement 3,765kg (8,300lb). Price guide: £35,000 to £55,000.

CATALINA 28 Detailed Review

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of CATALINA 28. Built by Catalina Yachts and designed by Gerry Douglas, the boat was first built in 1991. It has a hull type of Fin w/spade rudder and LOA is 8.69. Its sail area/displacement ratio 15.51. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by Universal, runs on Diesel.

CATALINA 28 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about CATALINA 28 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, auxillary power tank, contributions, who designed the catalina 28.

CATALINA 28 was designed by Gerry Douglas.

Who builds CATALINA 28?

CATALINA 28 is built by Catalina Yachts.

When was CATALINA 28 first built?

CATALINA 28 was first built in 1991.

How long is CATALINA 28?

CATALINA 28 is 7.26 m in length.

What is mast height on CATALINA 28?

CATALINA 28 has a mast height of 9.45 m.

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Which one? Cat 270 or 28

• Thread starter inarathree
• Start date Jan 3, 2013
• Catalina Owner Forums
• Ask A Catalina Owner

My wife and I have decided its time to move up from our 22'. We have sailed a Catalina 27 and a 270, and my wife prefers the 270. Then while looking we saw that there is a Catalina 28. Besides the 1' and a different interior, can anyone shed some light on why a manufacturer would build two models 1' different? And can anyone address pluses and minuses of each? Both models we saw are 1993 and close enough in price.  

A 28 usually has refrigeration, although I ran into someone who ordered one without. The 28 also has Jib winches on the coamings while the 270 has a single pair on the cabintop. The forepeak on a 270 is cramped and not too comfortable.  

The Genoa track and winch option was a very common factory ordered addition to the 270... so.... don't buy one that doesn't have it... the winches, tracks and blocks would cost you at least $2000 to add.  

Attachments

keys please

The 28 had a bit more room and i like the head setup.... and it was the biggest boat i could fit on my current boat lift.... 10,000. lb lift... ... ... i really like the 270... but just opted for more room... they are both good boats but i think both are out of production now... seems to me they make the 25' and the next one up is the 30'...  

Joe said: The Genoa track and winch option was a very common factory ordered addition to the 270... so.... don't buy one that doesn't have it... the winches, tracks and blocks would cost you at least $2000 to add. Click to expand

LakeOntario270

I purchased a 1996 270 last Spring and I love it. I considered a Catalina 28 also. My reasons in no particular order 1. 28 always about 10K more. 2. I like the open cabin, without the bulkhead. The forward V berth seems small but the seat infront of the table will extend the berth until you have 6 ft. 3. I prefer the entrance to the aft cabin on the 28. The door on the 270 is small but once inside the berth is very roomy. I can stretch out and not hit anything (I'm 6ft). 4. 270 is 2000lbs lighter which means much smaller sails to handle. 5. Nicer looking wing keel. 6. Tracks on top of cabin work fine. However you shouldn't have more than a 135 Genoa or else get the optional winches and tracks. 7. The 270 flies down wind with a cruising spinaker. I have Lewmar 16 winches on the comings for the spinaker. 8. I prefer the stern railing seats on the 270, best seats on the boat. 8. If the 270 is too small, get a 30 footer.  

I personally like the looks of the first edition of the C28's, not the MKII's. I don't think the price difference for a used boat of the same year is too much different. I just like the look of the outside on the C28's better than the C270. Looks more like the earlier Catalinas. I don't care for the "Euro" look, if I'm using that term correctly.  

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Catalina 28 mkii

The catalina 28 mkii is a 29.42ft masthead sloop designed by gerry douglas and built in fiberglass by catalina yachts between 1995 and 2010..

The Catalina 28 mkii is a moderate weight sailboat which is slightly under powered. It is stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally very small. There is a short water supply range.

Catalina 28 mkii for sale elsewhere on the web:

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Catalina 28

Catalina 28 is a 28 ′ 6 ″ / 8.7 m monohull sailboat designed by Gerry Douglas and built by Catalina Yachts starting in 1991.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Winged Keel vers. disp.:8200 bal.:3500 draft:4.5’. CATALINA 28 MKII introduced in 1995. Tall mast version: I: 39.50’ / 12.04m J: 10.80’ / 3.29m P: 34.00’ / 10.36m E: 10.75’ / 3.28m

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SeaQuence 1990 | 28' Catalina Sailboat for Sale

1990 catalina, 28' (8.53m) - seaquence, sail magazine review: designed by gerry douglas and his in-house design team, the 28 sports the distinct catalina profile. the sheerline is flat, the bow overhang is moderate, the broad transom is reversed and there is ample freeboard. the sloping cabin trunk extends well into the foredeck and the.

• Sandusky Ohio United States
• Fiberglass Hull

$ 23,900 USD

€ 22,451 euros $ 32,895 cad.

• EMAIL BROKER

Description

  SeaQuence Catalina 28.5

Custom cradle for winter storage.

NEW Harken Roller Furler 2023

NEW Full marine head with shower 2022

NEW custom winter cover 2020

NEW Cutlass Bearing and SS Shaft 2017

Cockpit Cushions

Propane Stove

Pressure water: 2 tanks- new pressure pump- most hoses have been replaced.

Hot water heater – New Heating Element.

30 AMP Shore Power with Shore Power Cord

Stereo with Bluetooth, radio and aux inputs

Depth/Knot/Temp Meter

Wind Direction Meter – Needs new wind sensor and mast wiring.

Rebuilt Mast in 2015:

·    Custom hinged mast base

·    Halyards – Main, jib, second jib, topping lift

·    Mast Reinforcing Plates

·    Wiring for deck, anchor and steaming lights.

·    Steaming and deck light.

·    Mast was soda blasted and painted with an epoxy paint.

·    New ball bearing sheaves in the mast head

Mainsail - original (Quote to replace available)

Genoa - 135% roller furling Optima

Universal M3-20 – 18 HP 3 cylinder diesel with approximately 730 hours.

Two new Marine Batteries 2022

Anchor with 10’ of chain and 150’ of rode

SeaQuence is a 1990 freshwater Catalina 28 tall rig hull number 19. She is a wing keel with a 4’-6” draft. She has a number of upgrades including a fully rebuilt mast.

Boat Model: 1990 Catalina 28

Length on Deck (LoD): 28.5 ft

Length at Waterline (LWL): 23.83 ft

Beam: 10.17 ft

Sail Area (SA): 364 ft2

Displacement (Weight): 8600 lbs 

LOA: 28' " (8.53 Meters)

Type: Sail - Used

Bridge Clearance: ' "

Draft Max: ' "

Draft Min: ' "

Maximum Speed: Knots

Cruise Speed: Knots

Fuel Type: Diesel

Hull Material: Fiberglass

Fuel Tank: Gallons ( Liters)

Fresh Water: Gallons ( Liters)

Holding Tank: Gallons ( Liters)

Full Details

• Engine Make: Universal
• Engine Model: M-30
• Engine Year: 1990
• Engine Type:
• Drive Type:
• Power HP: 18.00
• Hours: 730.00

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Contact Broker

For more information about this yacht please contact Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. We look forward to working with you!

Want more information about this yacht?

Curtis stokes & associates.

Suite168 --> Fort Lauderdale, FL Phone: 1-954-684-0218 Toll Free: 1-855-266-5676 Fax: 1-954-807-1445 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.curtisstokes.net

Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. is a yacht brokerage firm consisting of nine offices and fifty brokers throughout the United States offering worldwide marketing, buyer brokerage services and yacht charters. We also specialize in marketing and selling Great Loop capable yachts and boats.

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Common Issues With Catalina Yacht Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

Catalina sailboats have always been known for durability and quality, but they have some common issues to look out for.

Catalina sailboats, especially older vessels, commonly suffer from deck core failure, mast boot compression fatigue, keel separation, chain plate attachment failure, and fiberglass delamination issues.

In this article, we'll cover six of the most common problems unique to Catalina sailboats. Additionally, we'll show you how to spot these issues, along with a general idea of the time and effort required to repair them.

We sourced the information in this article from Catalina sailboat owners and sources familiar with repairing these vessels.

Table of contents

‍ Do Brand New Catalina Sailboats Have Any Problems?

Generally no, brand new Catalina Yachts are extremely high-quality and have virtually no common issues down the line. These sailboats are manufactured using the highest-quality materials that are economical.

And thanks to modern manufacturing techniques, even the best materials are now affordable for standard sailboats. Catalina yachts are high-end sailboats today and cost upwards of $200,000 in many cases. Thus, you can expect top-quality reliability and design.

Do Older Catalina Sailboats Have Any Problems?

Used Catalina sailboats are a different story. These boats were produced and sold at a much lower price point and with more 'standard' quality materials. For example, veneer was used instead of wood in some applications and whatnot.

However, they're still great boats—some of the best on the used market. Catalina yachts are affordable, especially the models built en masse in the 1970s and 1980s.

Most Common Problems with Catalina Sailboats

Catalina sailboats are some of the most numerous ever produced. These boats were built during a time when fiberglass boat building was fairly well established, but we didn't have as many quality materials to choose from.

It has been over 50 years since the first Catalina yachts rolled off the production line, and we've learned a lot since then. Additionally, despite their high quality, there are some common issues with these boats that warrant some inspection by owners and prospective buyers.

Here are some of the issues we look out for, along with how to spot them on used Catalina yachts.

1. Broken Mast Stays

Standing rigging is extremely important on Bermuda-rigged sloops, especially fiberglass vessels with aluminum masts. Unlike solid-masted vessels, like gaff-rigged catboats, virtually all Catalina sailboats rely on stainless steel stay cables to keep their masts up.

It's common on older Catalina sailboats for stays to be corroded or improperly tightened. This is bad news, as it often leads to complete stay failure and subsequent mast collapse. You should always inspect your standing rigging on an old fiberglass sailboat and replace it promptly if it stretches or shows signs of corrosion.

2. Deck Failure from Water Ingress

Old Catalina sailboats are notorious for deck failures, and they're pretty easy to spot once the degradation becomes advanced. Deck failure on Catalina sailboats is usually caused when water or rot makes its way into the organic deck core material and rots it away.

Remember, the decks of fiberglass boats are usually made from a combination of wood, foam, particleboard, and fiberglass for strength and water tightness.

When the outer layer deteriorates or cracks, water can get inside and turn the structural support below into worthless goo. Then it's only a matter of time before someone's boot makes a hole in the deck, which was once safe to walk on.

Usually, small soft spots in the deck of a Catalina sailboat can be repaired with relative ease, though it will require you to cut out and remove the affected area. It becomes a bigger issue when the rot affects a more vital area of the boat, such as a structural support beam.

You can find weak spots in the deck by looking for play in the deck surface. Usually, a weak spot will feel spongy or buckle under your weight. If you're walking around on the deck (on a surface that's supposed to be stepped on) and the deck moves from your weight, it's a bad sign.

3. Mast Compression Fatigue

Catalina masts are usually fastened to a strengthened point on the deck. If you follow the mast below decks, you'll notice a wooden beam (usually part of the woodwork between compartments) which leads to a solid mast step below the deck.

Catalina masts are held down by the stays with tremendous pressure, as hollow aluminum masts can be pushed hard but not bent. This transfers a heavy load through the support beam in the cabin and into the block in the floor. Over time, this pressure can deform or crack the compression post block.

This phenomenon is called compression fatigue, and it's pretty easy to spot. You probably won't have any indication of compression fatigue from the above decks unless the deck below the mast begins to sag noticeably. By that point, you've got bigger problems to deal with, and the vessel will need extensive repairs.

You can spot compression fatigue in a few ways. First, severe fatigue will usually be visible from the deck itself in the form of a sunken mast mount or cracks around the surface. Inside, any deformation or cracking in the ceiling around the compression post is cause for concern.

Finally, you can look below the floor at the mast block and look for cracks or deformation. A healthy mast block will have nice, even lines and an asymmetrical appearance. Most importantly, the top will be flat, and the fiberglass around the top of the post will be straight and free of cracks.

4. Keel and Hull Separation—The "Catalina Smile"

One of the most notorious failures on older Catalina sailboats is the separation of the keel and hull. Catalina sailboats are designed with a joint that connects the hull and the keel section of the vessel, and this area is known to fail from running aground or just from aging.

In fact, this form of separation is so common that there's a name for it. Sailors call it "the Catalina Smile," and it refers to the smile-shaped separation that occurs on the leading edge of the keel. This is an issue that anyone buying a 30+-year-old Catalina should definitely look for.

So what happens? This is due to the way the keel mounts to the boat. Catalina sailboats usually use heavy lead keels that are bolted to the bottom of the hull. These keels separate due to stretched fiberglass, impact, and loosened bolts.

It also happens when, over time, the seal between the keel and the hull fails and water corrodes the bolts. This problem isn't unique to Catalina sailboats—it can happen on any fin keelboat. It's common because the company was an early and widespread adopter of the fin keel design.

So can it be fixed, and is the Catalina Smile a fatal flaw? It depends entirely on the extent of the damage and when it occurs. If corroded bolts cause the keel to loosen, it can swing from side to side and crack the hull. There are a few cases of boats sinking this way.

But if it's not too severe, then you can have a competent boatyard repair it for a reasonable price. Additionally, you don't have to repair all cases of the Catalina Smile immediately, as minor cases require attention but aren't an immediate threat to the boat.

5. Chain Plate and Chain Plate Attachment Failure

Chainplates and chain plate attachments occasionally fail on Catalina sailboats, especially if they've been allowed to corrode. Another common cause of chain plate failure is the use of dissimilar or weak metals for replacement parts.

Some of these sailboats are over 50 years old. There have likely been many owners, and some may have improperly replaced chain plate attachments over the years.

Some use hardware store parts to replace high-strength and corrosion-resistant rigging components, which can break under pressure or cause irreversible galvanic corrosion when exposed to saltwater.

Luckily, this isn't the end of the world on used Catalina sailboats. Assuming the chainplate hasn't deformed the hull or torn out, you can replace all the potentially dangerous parts and bolts for a reasonable cost.

Failure most often occurs around chainplates when sails are deployed or when rigging is tightened. Replace all corroded or questionable parts before tightening rigging, and especially after you upgrade your standing rigging.

6. Fiberglass Delamination

Fiberglass delamination is a common issue on earlier fiberglass boats, especially those produced by Catalina in the 1960s and 1970s. Fiberglass delamination happens due to exposure to sunlight, abrasion, and water ingress, and it can happen almost anywhere on the boat.

Delamination occurs when one (or several) layers of fiberglass cloth become unglued from the others. Since Catalina sailboats are built with several layers of cloth, the occasional delamination due to age or abuse isn't uncommon—and it usually isn't immediately catastrophic.

Delamination can become an issue if it runs deeper than the first layer. Additionally, de-lamination can allow water to seep into the core and rot out the deck from within—a process that is extraordinarily difficult to stop once it starts.

Luckily, most cases of fiberglass delamination can be repaired with relative ease. Small areas of delamination can be fixed with a simple fiberglass cloth and resin kit from West Marine or by an experienced boatyard for a reasonable cost.

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Catalina 28MkII, 270 and Hunter 27

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Looking for a weekender, cost is a factor, inland lake use. The Catalina 28 mkII has been highly recommended, the 270 has not. The Hunter 27 is a nice boat, but the B&R rig and the quality control stories are a matter of concern. The Hunter is cheaper, the 270 next and the 28 the most expensive. Suggestions?  

You would likely get better answers to your question if you told us more--large lake or small, family or not (how many usually aboard), day use or weekend or longer, approximate budget to buy boat, why you are considering only these two boats and not the whole range of boats usually available, buying new or used, etc. Frank.  

Sure. Lake is 5 miles by 1 mile, 2 sailors, with occasional guests who are not sailors, day and weekend use only, 100K or less. These three are under consideration because of two dealers in my area. A J boat would be nice, but my spouse wants more live-in amenities. Beneteau doesn't make anything this size. A used boat is an option, but due to work schedule, I need to get one fairly new because of a limited amount of time for renovation jobs.  

If it were me, I would buy a 320 versus the 28. I think you will be happier. You can get a not too used 320 under 100k. It is an awesome sailing boat and is very comfortable for weekends, etc. If you ever did change your plans in the years to come and wanted to drop it in the coast, you would be very pleased with how it handles too. It is a very sure-footed boat, tracks well, has great refrigeration, and lots of room down below. It even turns within its length (or almost) which is very unusual for a sailboat. You can also add air conditioning and heat without taking out too much of the valuable cabinet space. Yes, I have owned one and loved it. Since then, I have owned a 380 and 400 (all Catalina). Catalina makes a very, very good boat (for the price) and has an awesome owners group - including a magazine called Mainsheet which is written and run by Catalina owners - not the company. They go through lots of technical issues, etc., specific to each make. Regarding Hunter, I personally like Catalina better and I personally feel they have a much better following. They feel stiffer to me, their rigging is more traditional, they seem to weather better, and I like the lines better. There were some technical problems with the older Hunters, but to be fair, all manufacturers have had their quirks (from Catalina to Valiant), and I understand that the new Hunters are better built boats than the old ones. For lake use & coastal, there is really nothing wrong with a Hunter - in my opinion. You might also look at a Beneteau. They make a similarly priced boat for the size, and make a good boat too. Still, for my dollar, I have always bought Catalinas over Bene, Jeauneau, Hunter, and even IP's (though they are much more expensive). Others may feel different. - CD PS I think the bad rap Hunters have gotten in the past has really been a bit over-done.  

On a 5x1 lake I think a 32 footer would be a bit much, but I agree with the Catalina choice. I'd go for the 28 if you can handle the cost as it seems a bit roomier and better laid out. At a mile wide...I hope you get a self tacking jib! Good luck...  

dgarr75456 said: Sure. Lake is 5 miles by 1 mile, 2 sailors, with occasional guests who are not sailors, day and weekend use only, 100K or less. These three are under consideration because of two dealers in my area. A J boat would be nice, but my spouse wants more live-in amenities. Beneteau doesn't make anything this size. A used boat is an option, but due to work schedule, I need to get one fairly new because of a limited amount of time for renovation jobs. Click to expand...

Umm...is it me...or does a 28' boat seem to be a bit overkill for a lake that is only 5 square miles.  

Unless you need headroom, I personally would think something a bit smaller would be just as much fun on a lake that small. I used to have plenty of fun in the North end of Lk Washington in a Glen-L 8ball, ie a typical 8' pram. My step dad had a glenl 21CB model, more than fun...... There are older Jeanneau and Benateau models in the 25-30' range, and if you can talk a local dealer into bringing a none sold here typically model, both also still make sub 30 even down to 20'ish ft. A Cat 25 or 22 would also make great daysailers on a lake that size too. The bigger the cockpit the better. GOod luck Marty  

Don't get hung up on the lake size issue. The area is the part of the lake around the marina. When all the inlets and tributaries are added up the lake is much bigger. It appears to me that Hunter had some serious quality control issues and styling miscues several years back and Glenn Henderson is trying to put it back in order. The B&R rig is still a real question. The Catalinas appear overbuilt in comparison, and the rig is conventional and more familiar. The H27 on paper would be a better performing boat, while the C28 would be stiffer in a blow. As we all know, however, sailing ratios and computer analysis don't tell the whole story. The C28 was strongly recommended by a current owner, as was the 320. The conventional wisdom on the C270 was not so good. The H27 is new and unknown. Comments?  

I had a '96 c28mkII and a '99 c320 and while I liked the c28 a lot the c320 was always on my mind. In fact I bought the c28 in the fall and wintered next to a c320 and all winter I was saying to myself even before splashdown of the c28 - that's the boat I really want. The c320 is much faster than the c28 so I may agree with a previous post that it is too much boat for your lake. I say that because the way Narragansett Bay is peppered with islands and sub-bays it is basically a bunch of your lakes patched together but without another section to slip into you would get bored flying back and forth in the same place. I know the c320 certainly shrunk NGBay quite a bit for me. The quite possibly largest fridge on any 32' boat mentioned is great on the c320 but I think the Ice Box on the c28 will do you fine for cruising around your lake as we cruised out to Block Island and had plenty of cold food for a week. Stan  

Thanks for the input. Does anyone have any experience with the three boats I mentioned, the Catalina 28, 270 and Hunter 27?  

have experience on the 270 and the hunter27, both very nice sailing boats for your purposes. The QC on the hunter isn't all that bad. I just get a hinky feeling about that rigging, Yea, I know its not logical, but its how I feel Now, this is my personal opinion, that and 50 cents gets you a newspaper.... If it were me, and if it were my cash, (and its not), I'd save a pile of that by looking for a used catalina 27. they're rock solid, are as nicely oufitted as either of the above (ok, no sugar scoop,deal with it) and you can pocket a serious amount of cash you were going to spend and have just as much fun.  

In my previous post I got caught up talking about the c320 but I had 3 great years with the c28. It is a lot more boat than the c27 or c270. It's not just the sugar scoop transom that is so nice in comparison to the 'tiny hiny' of the c27, it's the walk-thru that gives you your own private dock/swim platform which is especially good for the lake sailing you're talking about. The big fat ass which I agree may not be good for offshore work is great for lake or coastal cruising because it gives you a large bed underneath the giant cockpit. As for the c270 I don't like the idea of the only 2 winches stuck up on the cabin top instead of the 4 where they belong on the c28. Some like the open forward berth of the c270 while my preference is the separate room type on the c28 even if it is only used for storage. I don't take the 'floating condo' remark as some kind of horrible insult because the c28 sails reasonably well and I like to be comfortable whether at the dock, anchored 5 miles away after a nice day sail, or 50 miles away on a cruise. Stan  

TB, Because he is reminiscing about the worlds finest built yachts and realizes he should have stayed!! HAHA. I think even Cam had Catalinas, if I am not mistaken. Now, if I can only get Sailingdog to come out of the closet... - CD  

CD- My love for Catalinas will Never be relegated to the 'closet' because as you Ha Ha'd - I DO think they build the best $$ for $$ # for # - Coastal Cruising Yachts - in the world. I think Frank Butler's dream of building a good boat for the common man has been realized - a thousand fold. TB- I was actually ready to accept the c320 as my last boat until as luck would have it while steering the Admiral and Chief Financeer towards an older Nauticat for a re-furbish the 'perfect for us' newer one became available. I'm still in shock she actually went for it..$$$. Even after some extension work on my part to stretch the aft berth into a Full she misses the Queen size bed we had on the c320 though. Other than that - We Be Happy !!!  

Stan, If there's one thing my wife (unfortunately, NOT the Cheif financier) wasn't completely happy with also, is the pullman style, double size aft cabin berth - which I believe is the same size as on your later model NC 331. We actually like the forward V-berth much better. With the filler cushion at almost 8 feet wide x 7 ft long, the V-berth is the largest I've ever seen on ANY size sailboat. With the ensuite head, the master aft cabin makes a great private suite for our cruising guests. They love it. Hope to see you both on the Bay again next season.  

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