Catalina Owner Reviews

Serving sailors online since 1997

Review of the Catalina Capri-22 by Leo Zimmermann

Year built	1993
Location of boat	New Fairfield, CT
The boat is sailed on	Lakes
How the boat is used	Racing
Normal wind strength	less than 10 knots
Average size of crew	2-4
Liveaboard?	No
Owner bought the boat in	1994
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again?	Without hesitation. It has been a great performer.
Gear that's been added	I am on my second set of racing sails. Still carry the original sails for fun sailing. I added a 'boomkicker' flexiable Vang. It keeps the boom up after dropping the main and adds boom stability on reach and down wind legs.
Structural or complex improvements	Removed forward lifeline staunchon, and terminated the lifeline at that point. This eliminates interference with the jib. I also increased the purchase on the outhall to 4 to 1.
The boat's best features	Performance. My son and I have club raced her for 10 years. We have ruled the PHRF fleet for the past 4-5 years. This past year, two more club members have bought new Capri 22's. This brings us to a total of 4 boats. Another member is looking to buy a used Capri.
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc.	When the wind drops below 5 knots she is tricky to handle. Particularly if there is significant power boat chop on the lake. I have had no hardware failures in 10 years.
Sailing characterisitcs	We race without spinnakers. She points well, but don't pinch her when going slow, let her accelerate and then bring her up. Downwind with the 155 jib wing on wing (whisker pole) she moves very well. I have a tendency to over trim on a reach. I should install a speed log to show me the best sail trim on the reach. The boom is low, just remember to duck!
Motoring characterisitcs	I have used both a 6 and a 4 hp on her and both are fine on the lake.
Liveability	In 10 years we have never slept on her. We've hidden down below during some heavy rain, no problem. When sailing with friends, youngsters will go below and sleep or play. The porta potty is fine but the headroom is tight up forward.
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any)	I bought her used. I have talked to Catlina engeneering on several occasions and they have been very helpful.
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any
Other comments	Love her.

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