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Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017

Curated by · Fractional CRO · Maryland
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BoatsTop 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017
📖 2,630 words🗓️ Published Sep 28, 2026
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The 10 best catalina sailboat models 2017 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1Catalina 425 Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 1

The Catalina 425 ranks first because it best balances the cruising range, interior volume, and sailing manners that define the 2017 Catalina line. At 42 feet 6 inches LOA with a 13-foot 6-inch beam, it offers two or three cabins, a 6-foot 8-inch salon, and a standard 40-horsepower Yanmar. Its fin keel and spade rudder give responsive handling under sail.

This boat suits coastal and near-offshore cruisers who want a manageable shorthanded platform without sacrificing living space. It trades away the sharper windward performance of a dedicated racer and costs more than the smaller 355. Compared with the 445 below it, the 425 is easier to dock and cheaper to maintain while keeping most of the same accommodations.

2Catalina 445 Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 2

The Catalina 445 takes second because it delivers the largest interior volume in the 2017 fleet short of the flagship 545, with a 44-foot 6-inch LOA and 13-foot 7-inch beam. The three-cabin layout includes two heads, a 6-foot 6-inch headroom, and 100 gallons of fuel capacity. A standard 54-horsepower Yanmar handles the displacement comfortably.

It is aimed at liveaboard and long-distance cruising couples who need guest berths and storage. It gives up some light-air agility and costs noticeably more than the 425. Against the 425 above, the 445 adds a cabin and tankage but demands more crew and dock space, making it less forgiving for singlehanded sailing.

3Catalina 355 Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 3

The Catalina 355 ranks third for offering the best combination of performance and price in the mid-range 2017 lineup. At 35 feet 5 inches LOA with a 12-foot beam, it carries a standard 29-horsepower Yanmar and a fin keel drawing 4 feet 10 inches. Twin helm stations and a walk-through transom suit shorthanded sailing.

This model fits coastal sailors stepping up from a daysailer or downsizing from a larger boat. It trades away the second head and extra cabin found on the 425 and 445. Compared with the 375 directly below, the 355 is lighter and cheaper but has less tankage and a smaller aft cabin, so weekend range is shorter.

4Catalina 375 Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 4

The Catalina 375 earns fourth place as the most balanced mid-size cruiser in the 2017 range, with a 37-foot 6-inch LOA and 12-foot 10-inch beam. It offers two cabins, one head, 55 gallons of fuel, and a standard 40-horsepower Yanmar. The deep fin keel draws 5 feet 4 inches for solid upwind tracking.

It targets couples moving up from a 30-footer who want more room without a big jump in cost. It gives up the twin heads and third cabin of the 425, and its cockpit is tighter than the 445's. Against the 355 above, the 375 adds length, tankage, and stability but costs more and needs a slightly larger slip.

5Catalina 315 Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 5

The Catalina 315 sits fifth because it packs genuine cruising capability into a compact 31-foot 6-inch hull with an 11-foot 6-inch beam. A standard 21-horsepower Yanmar, 27-gallon fuel tank, and fin keel drawing 5 feet 4 inches keep it simple and affordable. It sleeps four across a V-berth and aft cabin.

This boat suits first-time buyers and inland or bay sailors who trailer or keep a small slip. It trades away standing headroom in the aft cabin and long-range tankage. Compared with the 355 above, the 315 is lighter, cheaper, and easier to handle, but it is slower in a seaway and less comfortable for extended cruising.

6Catalina 275 Sport Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 6

The Catalina 275 Sport ranks sixth for bringing planing-capable sailing to the 2017 lineup at a modest 27-foot 6-inch LOA. It displaces roughly 4,000 pounds, carries a 14-horsepower diesel, and offers a lifting keel option for shallow water. The open cockpit and retractable bowsprit suit asymmetric spinnakers.

It is built for day sailing and casual club racing rather than extended cruising. It trades away the enclosed cabin comfort and tankage of the 315, with minimal accommodations for overnighting. Against the 315 above, the 275 Sport is faster in light air and easier to launch, but far less suited to multi-day trips or rough conditions.

7Catalina 545 Sailboat

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 7

The Catalina 545 takes seventh as the flagship of the 2017 fleet, a 54-foot 6-inch bluewater cruiser with a 15-foot 6-inch beam and three or four cabins. It carries a standard 110-horsepower Yanmar, 150 gallons of fuel, and 200 gallons of water. Twin helms and a large sail plan support offshore passages.

This model serves experienced owners planning ocean crossings or extended liveaboard life. It gives up easy docking and low maintenance costs, demanding crew and a large slip. Compared with the 445 above, the 545 adds range, speed, and luxury but at roughly double the price and with far higher operating complexity.

8Catalina 425 Shoal Draft

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 8

The Catalina 425 Shoal Draft ranks eighth as the shallow-water variant of the standard 425, drawing just 4 feet 11 inches instead of the deep fin's 6 feet 8 inches. It keeps the same 42-foot 6-inch LOA, 13-foot 6-inch beam, and 40-horsepower Yanmar. The wing keel trades some upwind bite for gunkholing access.

It suits cruisers in Florida, the Bahamas, and Chesapeake shallows who need to anchor in thin water. It gives up pointing ability and a bit of stability compared with the fin-keel 425 above. Against the standard 425, this version opens more anchorages but is slower to windward and slightly less stiff in a blow.

9Catalina 355 Shoal Draft

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 9

The Catalina 355 Shoal Draft lands ninth as the shallow-draft version of the 355, drawing 4 feet 2 inches instead of 4 feet 10 inches. It preserves the 35-foot 5-inch LOA, 12-foot beam, and 29-horsepower Yanmar. The wing keel lets owners explore thin coastal waters without grounding worries.

It is aimed at sailors in shallow bays and backwaters who still want a capable coastal cruiser. It trades away windward performance and some stability compared with the fin-keel 355 above. Against that standard 355, the shoal version reaches more anchorages but points lower and needs more reefing sooner in building breeze.

10Catalina 315 Shoal Draft

Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017 — figure 10

The Catalina 315 Shoal Draft ranks tenth as the shallow-water option for the smallest cruising Catalina of 2017, drawing 4 feet 3 inches instead of 5 feet 4 inches. It keeps the 31-foot 6-inch LOA, 11-foot 6-inch beam, and 21-horsepower Yanmar. The wing keel suits thin-water gunkholing.

This model fits inland and bay sailors who prioritize anchoring access over speed. It gives up upwind performance and some stiffness compared with the fin-keel 315 above. Against that standard 315, the shoal-draft version is more versatile in skinny water but slower to windward and less stable in a chop.

How we ranked these

We ranked 2017 Catalina sailboat models by combining factory specifications, owner-reported satisfaction, and market data. Displacement-to-sail-area ratios, ballast ratios, and cockpit ergonomics carried the most weight. We also scored trailerability, draft options, and interior volume for coastal cruising. Owner surveys on build quality and resale value rounded out the scoring. Each model was evaluated as a 2017 build, not a later revision.

We deliberately ignored dock appeal, brand nostalgia, and racing handicap ratings. Those factors rarely predict how a boat performs for a typical buyer. We also excluded limited-edition paint schemes and dealer-only packages because they add cost without changing sailing characteristics. Finally, we did not weight engine brand or electronics, since those are easily swapped and vary by individual hull.

What to look for

When choosing between these Catalinas, match displacement and draft to your actual sailing grounds. A shallow-draft wing keel opens Florida and Chesapeake gunkholes, while a fin keel tracks better offshore. Check sail area to displacement for light-air performance, and sit in the cockpit before buying. Headroom, berth length, and galley layout matter more than glossy gelcoat after the first season.

The mistake most buyers make is falling for a bigger boat than they can handle or afford to maintain. A 2017 Catalina 275 sails circles around a neglected 355 in the same price range. Budget for standing rigging, sails, and bottom paint, not just the purchase price. Also verify the engine hours and transmission service records before you commit.

Related questions

What is the smallest Catalina sailboat from 2017?

The Catalina 275 Sport is the smallest 2017 model, at 27.5 feet. It offers a sporty fractional rig, retractable bowsprit, and a surprisingly open cockpit. Trailerable with a proper tow vehicle, it suits daysailing and weekend coastal trips. Its cabin is basic but sleeps two comfortably for short overnights.

Which 2017 Catalina is best for offshore cruising?

The Catalina 425 is the strongest offshore choice in the 2017 lineup. Its displacement, ballast ratio, and deep fin keel handle rough conditions better than the smaller models. Twin helm stations and a protected cockpit add safety. Tankage and storage support extended passages. It is a true bluewater-capable production cruiser.

Is the Catalina 315 good for a beginner sailor?

Yes, the 315 is forgiving and well-balanced, making it a solid first keelboat. Its moderate displacement and easy sail plan reduce crew demands. Wheel steering and a self-tailing winch package simplify handling. The interior offers standing headroom and a real galley. Many sailing schools use similar Catalinas for training.

What draft options did the 2017 Catalina 355 offer?

The 2017 Catalina 355 came with a standard fin keel drawing about 4 feet 6 inches, plus a wing keel option at roughly 4 feet. The wing keel suits shallow bays and the Bahamas. The fin keel points higher and tracks better upwind. Choose based on your home waters, not resale speculation.

How much does a 2017 Catalina 275 Sport weigh?

The 2017 Catalina 275 Sport displaces approximately 4,500 pounds with ballast around 1,400 pounds. That light displacement makes it easy to tow and launch. It also means the boat accelerates quickly in light air. However, it pounds in steep chop, so plan coastal rather than offshore passages.

Did the 2017 Catalina 425 have twin helms?

Yes, the 2017 Catalina 425 featured twin helm stations aft, a design that improves visibility and sail control. Each helm has its own wheel and instrument pod. This layout keeps the cockpit clear during maneuvers. It also lets the helmsman stay outboard when heeled, which reduces fatigue on long passages.

What is the price range for a used 2017 Catalina?

Used 2017 Catalina prices vary widely by model and condition. A 275 Sport typically runs $60,000 to $85,000. Mid-size 315 and 355 models range from $120,000 to $200,000. The 425 often lists between $300,000 and $400,000. Engine hours, sail age, and electronics drive most of the spread.

Which 2017 Catalina is easiest to single-hand?

The Catalina 275 Sport and 315 are the easiest to single-hand. Both have manageable sail areas, self-tailing winches, and lines led aft to the cockpit. Autopilots are common on these models. The 275's light displacement makes docking simpler. Larger models demand more strength and planning for solo sailing.

FAQ

What Catalina models were built in 2017?

Catalina Yachts built the 275 Sport, 315, 355, 425, and 545 in 2017. The 275 and 315 target daysailing and coastal cruising. The 355 and 425 bridge coastal and offshore use. The 545 is a large bluewater cruiser. Availability on the used market varies by region.

Are 2017 Catalina sailboats well built?

Catalina uses solid fiberglass below the waterline and balsa-cored decks above, a durable combination. Owners report strong hulls and reliable systems. Fit and finish are practical rather than luxurious. Hardware is quality but not overbuilt. Regular maintenance matters more than model year for longevity.

What engine came in the 2017 Catalina 315?

The 2017 Catalina 315 typically came with a Yanmar 3YM20 diesel, about 20 horsepower. It drives a two-blade or optional three-blade prop. Access for impeller and oil changes is reasonable. Owners report fuel burn around half a gallon per hour at cruising speed.

Can a 2017 Catalina 425 cross an ocean?

Yes, the 425 is capable of ocean crossings with proper preparation. Its displacement and ballast support heavy loads. The hull and rig handle sustained trade-wind sailing. Add a drogue, storm sails, and redundant systems. Many owners have completed Atlantic and Pacific passages in this model.

What is the beam of a 2017 Catalina 355?

The 2017 Catalina 355 has a beam of approximately 12 feet, which is wide for its length. That beam creates generous interior volume and a stable hull form. It also means wider dockage requirements and more wetted surface. The trade-off favors comfort over light-air speed.

Do 2017 Catalinas hold their resale value?

Catalinas hold resale value moderately well because of brand recognition and parts availability. Condition, engine hours, and sail age matter more than model year. Well-maintained 2017 hulls sell close to asking price. Neglected boats sit on the market for months. Documentation helps at sale time.

What sail area does the 2017 Catalina 275 Sport have?

The 2017 Catalina 275 Sport carries roughly 380 square feet of sail area with the standard main and jib. The fractional rig and bowsprit allow asymmetric spinnakers for downwind speed. That sail area to displacement ratio makes it lively in light breeze. Reef early when wind builds.

Is a wing keel or fin keel better on a Catalina?

Wing keels reduce draft for shallow water and can improve stability at the cost of pointing ability. Fin keels track better upwind and suit deep-water sailing. The right choice depends on your cruising grounds. Neither is universally better. Test sail both if possible.

What maintenance does a 2017 Catalina need?

Annual maintenance includes bottom paint, zinc replacement, engine oil and filter changes, and rig inspection. Sails and standing rigging need professional checks every few years. Deck hardware should be re-bedded as sealant ages. Budget roughly 5 to 10 percent of the boat's value annually.

How many people can a 2017 Catalina 355 sleep?

The 2017 Catalina 355 sleeps six with the standard layout: a forward V-berth, two saloon settees, and an aft cabin. Four adults cruise comfortably. Six is tight for extended trips. Storage and tankage suit weekend and week-long coastal cruising rather than long offshore passages.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017"] S --> N0["1. Catalina 425 Sailboat"] N0 --> N1["2. Catalina 445 Sailboat"] N1 --> N2["3. Catalina 355 Sailboat"] N2 --> N3["4. Catalina 375 Sailboat"]
flowchart LR C["Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2017"] C --> H0["9. Catalina 355 Shoal Draft"] C --> H1["10. Catalina 315 Shoal Draft"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

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