Catalina Owner Reviews

Serving sailors online since 1997

Review of the Catalina 30 by Michael H. Bellm

Year built	1990
Location of boat	Lake Carlyle, Carlyle Illinois
The boat is sailed on	Lakes
How the boat is used	Weekends and longer
Normal wind strength	10-15 knots
Average size of crew	2-4
Liveaboard?	No
Owner bought the boat in	2002
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again?	Yes, it is the right boat for my family. We started looking at trailer boats, but after finding out the hassles associated with rigging and moving we started to look at bigger boats. Also many of the people selling the 25-27 ft sizes were looking into 30's. The poor condition of most trailers was also a clue that moving the boat was not practical. We then focused on a good weekender for our young family of 4. The C30 provides great livability for the price and seems to have the biggest cabin of the 30's.
Gear that's been added	We have added a small window style AC in the v berth and a cabin heater. DermaGRIP marine grade gloves have been a great hand saver. Otherwise the boat was well equipped.
Structural or complex improvements	There was a crack in the hull near the shaft log that we repaired prior to launching. Adding the AC system and related ventilation.
The boat's best features	For the $ the best design we could find.
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc.	With a wing keel and std. rig, I find the boat does not have the best performance. Initially, I was sailing with only the main due to a furler problem. Adding the 150 has added a lot of heel, but not much in performance. Granted, I am a new sailor!
Sailing characterisitcs	Turning up wind when on a beam reach in heavier wind. Othherwise quite nice.
Motoring characterisitcs	The engine is pretty noisy. I think I may have a shaft that is bent. Otherwise the Universial M320 runs well.
Liveability	As good as you can get in a 30. Last weekend we had 4 adults and 5 children on the boat for 2 nights. It was a blast.
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any)	Bought from the 2nd owner.
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any	DNA
Other comments	It is a great boat for the family. It is not a high performance racer. I can single hand the boat easily.

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