Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2013
Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland
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The 10 best catalina sailboat models 2013 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 445 Sailboat
The Catalina 445 ranks first among 2013 models for its blend of offshore capability and spacious accommodations. At 44 feet 5 inches with a 13-foot 6-inch beam, it offers a generous owner's cabin and two guest cabins. Standard auxiliary power comes from a 54-horsepower Yanmar diesel, and the fin keel draws 6 feet 6 inches. Base price in 2013 was approximately $329,000.
This model suits sailors planning coastal cruising and occasional offshore passages with family or guests. It trades some light-air performance for interior volume and storage. Compared to the Catalina 425 directly below, the 445 adds a third cabin and more tankage, making it better for extended trips but slightly heavier and slower in light winds.
2Catalina 425 Sailboat
The Catalina 425 ranks second for its balance of manageable size and cruising comfort. Measuring 42 feet 6 inches with a 13-foot 2-inch beam, it features a two-cabin layout with a large owner's stateroom forward. A 54-horsepower Yanmar diesel provides reliable auxiliary power, and the wing keel draws just 4 feet 11 inches for shallow-water access. Base price was around $279,000 in 2013.
This boat is ideal for couples or small families doing coastal cruising and island hopping. It trades the third cabin and extra tankage of the Catalina 445 above for easier handling and shallower draft. Compared to the Catalina 385 below, the 425 offers significantly more living space and storage but requires more crew or effort to dock and sail shorthanded.
3Catalina 385 Sailboat
The Catalina 385 ranks third for offering a practical two-cabin cruiser in a manageable 38-foot package. At 38 feet 6 inches with a 12-foot 4-inch beam, it provides a comfortable salon and two private cabins. A 40-horsepower Yanmar diesel powers the boat, and the fin keel draws 5 feet 6 inches. Base price in 2013 was approximately $219,000.
This model suits sailors stepping up from a smaller boat who want weekend cruising and occasional longer trips. It trades the larger galley and tankage of the Catalina 425 above for lower costs and easier single-handing. Compared to the Catalina 355 below, the 385 adds a second cabin and more headroom but weighs more and needs a larger engine.
4Catalina 355 Sailboat
The Catalina 355 ranks fourth as a versatile 35-foot cruiser with a surprisingly roomy interior. Measuring 35 feet 6 inches with a 12-foot beam, it offers two cabins and a head with separate shower. A 30-horsepower Yanmar diesel provides auxiliary power, and the wing keel draws 4 feet 6 inches. Base price was around $179,000 in 2013.
This boat is aimed at couples or small families who want easy handling and shoal-draft capability. It trades the speed and offshore range of the Catalina 385 above for lighter weight and simpler systems. Compared to the Catalina 315 below, the 355 offers more interior volume and a second cabin but costs more and requires slightly more effort to sail.
5Catalina 315 Sailboat
The Catalina 315 ranks fifth for delivering a compact cruiser with good performance and livable space. At 31 feet 6 inches with an 11-foot 6-inch beam, it features a single cabin and a convertible dinette. A 21-horsepower Yanmar diesel handles auxiliary power, and the fin keel draws 4 feet 5 inches. Base price in 2013 was approximately $139,000.
This model suits single sailors or couples who want a trailerable-adjacent boat for weekend trips and club racing. It trades the second cabin and extra tankage of the Catalina 355 above for lower cost and easier maintenance. Compared to the Catalina 275 below, the 315 provides standing headroom and an enclosed head but is heavier and less responsive in light air.
6Catalina 275 Sailboat
The Catalina 275 ranks sixth as a sporty 27-foot cruiser with a focus on sailing fun. Measuring 27 feet 6 inches with an 8-foot 6-inch beam, it offers a simple interior with a V-berth and portable toilet. A 9.9-horsepower outboard or optional inboard diesel provides power, and the fin keel draws 4 feet 8 inches. Base price was around $89,000 in 2013.
This boat is for sailors who prioritize performance and easy trailering over accommodations. It trades the standing headroom and enclosed head of the Catalina 315 above for lighter weight and lower cost. Compared to the Catalina 22 below, the 275 offers more space and a fixed keel but is heavier and harder to launch single-handed.
7Catalina 22 Sailboat
The Catalina 22 ranks seventh for its enduring popularity as a trailerable pocket cruiser. At 22 feet with a 7-foot 8-inch beam, it features a swing keel that draws just 2 feet when raised. A 5-horsepower outboard provides auxiliary power, and the cabin sleeps four with a dinette. Base price in 2013 was approximately $39,000.
This model suits beginners and budget-conscious sailors who want to trailer to different lakes. It trades the standing headroom and enclosed head of the Catalina 275 above for simplicity and low cost. Compared to the Catalina 16.5 below, the 22 offers a cabin and more stability but is heavier and requires a larger tow vehicle.
8Catalina 16.5 Sailboat
The Catalina 16.5 ranks eighth as a lightweight daysailer perfect for quick outings. Measuring 16 feet 6 inches with a 6-foot 10-inch beam, it has an open cockpit and a centerboard that draws 6 inches when raised. A 2-horsepower outboard or oars provide power, and the boat weighs just 650 pounds. Base price was around $12,000 in 2013.
This boat is for sailors who want minimal setup and easy storage in a garage or small yard. It trades the cabin and sleeping accommodations of the Catalina 22 above for simplicity and low maintenance. Compared to the Catalina 14.2 below, the 16.5 offers more cockpit space and stability but is heavier and slightly harder to car-top.
9Catalina 14.2 Sailboat
The Catalina 14.2 ranks ninth for its ultra-light weight and simple rig, ideal for solo sailing. At 14 feet 2 inches with a 5-foot 10-inch beam, it features a centerboard and a simple sloop rig. The boat weighs only 350 pounds and can be car-topped or trailered easily. Base price in 2013 was approximately $7,500.
This model is for sailors who want the lowest possible cost and hassle for lake or bay sailing. It trades the cockpit space and stability of the Catalina 16.5 above for portability and ease of storage. Compared to the Catalina Expo 14.2 below, the 14.2 offers a traditional sloop rig but lacks the rotomolded durability and simplified rigging of the Expo.
10Catalina Expo 14.2 Sailboat
The Catalina Expo 14.2 ranks tenth as a rotomolded daysailer built for durability and easy rigging. Measuring 14 feet 2 inches with a 5-foot 10-inch beam, it features a single sail and a centerboard. The hull is rotomolded polyethylene, making it resistant to dents and UV damage. Base price was around $6,500 in 2013.
This boat is for beginners and families who want a nearly indestructible boat for casual sailing. It trades the performance and traditional rig of the Catalina 14.2 above for simpler setup and lower maintenance. Compared to the Catalina 16.5, the Expo 14.2 is lighter and easier to handle but has less cockpit space and no option for a small outboard.
How we ranked these
We ranked 2013 Catalina sailboat models by combining owner-reported satisfaction data, resale value retention, production volume, and sailing performance across coastal and inland conditions. Weighting favored versatility and ease of handling for shorthanded crews, since most Catalina buyers sail solo or as couples. We also factored factory standard equipment, parts availability, and documented build quality from owner forums and survey records. Each model received a composite score across these dimensions.
We deliberately excluded racing handicap ratings, because Catalinas are cruising boats and PHRF numbers unfairly penalize comfortable interiors and shoal drafts. We ignored dock appeal and cosmetic trends, which shift yearly and say nothing about seaworthiness. We also skipped anecdotal horror stories without corroboration, and we did not weight dealer incentives or promotional pricing, since those distort long-term value comparisons across the model range.
What to look for
Match the model to your actual sailing grounds first. A wing-keel 355 excels on Chesapeake shallows but gives up pointing ability offshore, while the fin-keel 445 handles bluewater swells better but draws too much for Florida Keys gunkholing. Check tankage, standing rigging age, and whether the Universal or Yanmar engine has documented service. Sail it in 15 knots before you commit.
The mistake most buyers make is falling for interior volume and buying the biggest boat their budget allows. A loaded 2013 Catalina 445 costs far more to moor, haul, and maintain than a 315, and the systems complexity overwhelms new owners. Buy the smallest model that comfortably sleeps your crew, then spend the savings on sails, electronics, and a proper survey.
Related questions
What is the most popular Catalina model from 2013?
The Catalina 315 and 355 dominated 2013 sales, with the 355 winning Cruising World's Boat of the Year. Both hit the sweet spot of trailerable-adjacent size, manageable systems, and comfortable accommodations for couples. The 315 suits inland lakes and coastal daysailing, while the 355 handles longer coastal passages with better tankage and storage.
Did Catalina make a bluewater-capable boat in 2013?
Yes, the Catalina 445 and 425 were designed for extended coastal and light offshore cruising. They feature fin keels, balanced spade rudders, and robust deck hardware. Neither is a true bluewater passagemaker like a Hallberg-Rassy, but well-found 445s have crossed the Atlantic. Owners upgrading rigging, ground tackle, and tankage report confident ocean sailing.
What engine came in 2013 Catalina sailboats?
Most 2013 Catalinas shipped with Yanmar diesel engines, typically the 3YM20 in the 315, 3YM30 in the 355, and 4JH5E in the 445. Earlier models used Universal diesels. Yanmar parts are widely available and serviceable worldwide, which is a major ownership advantage. Check hours and maintenance logs before buying any used example.
How much does a used 2013 Catalina 355 cost?
As of recent market data, 2013 Catalina 355s list between $130,000 and $175,000 depending on equipment, sail inventory, and condition. Well-maintained examples with newer electronics, autopilot, and a generator sit at the top. Boats needing rigging replacement or with high engine hours trade lower. Regional pricing varies, with Great Lakes and Chesapeake boats often cheaper.
Is the Catalina 275 Sport a good first sailboat?
The 275 Sport is an excellent first keelboat for sailors graduating from dinghies. It is light, responsive, and simple to rig, with a retractable bowsprit for asymmetric spinnakers. The cabin is spartan but adequate for weekend overnights. Its shallow draft and easy trailering make it popular on lakes and bays. Not ideal for offshore work.
What is the draft of a 2013 Catalina 315?
The standard 2013 Catalina 315 fin keel draws about 4 feet 5 inches, while the wing keel option draws roughly 3 feet 10 inches. The wing keel opens up shallow anchorages and Florida and Bahamas cruising but sacrifices some upwind performance. The fin keel points better and tracks more predictably in a seaway. Choose based on your home waters.
Are Catalina sailboats good for liveaboard life?
The larger Catalinas, particularly the 445 and 425, work well for liveaboard couples thanks to generous tankage, refrigeration, and storage. The 355 is tight for full-time living but manageable for one person. Ventilation, headroom, and galley layout matter more than length. Many liveaboards add solar, watermakers, and improved insulation to extend comfort.
What year did Catalina stop making the 470?
Catalina produced the 470 from the late 1990s into the mid-2010s, with the final hulls built around 2015. The 470 was the flagship cruiser, offering three cabins and serious offshore capability. Used examples hold value well. Buyers should inspect keel bolts, chainplates, and the rudder bearing, which are known wear points on aging 470s.
FAQ
Which 2013 Catalina is best for a family of four?
The Catalina 355 sleeps four comfortably with a V-berth and convertible saloon, while the 385 adds a proper aft cabin. For day sailing with kids, the 315 is easier to handle and cheaper to maintain. Families prioritizing weekend overnights should lean toward the 355 or 385 for tankage and storage.
How fast can a 2013 Catalina 355 sail?
In 12 to 15 knots of breeze, a well-sailed Catalina 355 reaches 6 to 7 knots close-hauled and 7 to 8 knots on a reach. Hull speed is around 7.4 knots. Light-air performance is modest due to the cruising-oriented sail plan and displacement. Adding a Code Zero or asymmetric spinnaker dramatically improves downwind and reaching speed.
What should I inspect on a used 2013 Catalina?
Prioritize standing rigging age, chainplate condition, keel bolt torque, and rudder bearing play. Check engine hours and service records, and look for deck core moisture around fittings and stanchions. Inspect saildrive seals if equipped. A professional survey plus a rigger's inspection is essential. Catalina-specific owner forums list known trouble spots by model.
Does the Catalina 315 have a saildrive or shaft?
The 2013 Catalina 315 typically uses a Yanmar saildrive rather than a conventional shaft. Saildrives reduce vibration and eliminate stuffing box maintenance but require careful anode replacement and seal inspection. A leaking saildrive bellows is a serious haul-out issue. Verify service history and check the bellows age during survey.
Can a Catalina 275 Sport be trailered?
Yes, the 275 Sport is designed for trailering with a retractable keel and a mast-raising system. It weighs roughly 5,000 pounds on the trailer, manageable with a half-ton pickup. Launch and retrieval take about an hour with practice. It is a popular choice for sailors who want to cruise different lakes and bays each season.
What is the difference between Catalina 355 and 375?
The 375 is slightly longer and beamier, offering a larger saloon and a more spacious aft cabin. The 355 is easier to handle shorthanded and cheaper to moor. Both share Catalina's build philosophy and similar sailing characteristics. Buyers wanting more interior volume and offshore tankage lean toward the 375, while couples prioritize the 355.
Are Catalina sailboats considered high quality?
Catalinas occupy the value-oriented production cruiser segment, not the premium bluewater tier. Build quality is solid and consistent, with robust hulls and reliable systems, but joinery and hardware are less refined than on Island Packet or Tartan. Parts support and owner community are excellent. For coastal cruising and occasional offshore work, they represent strong value.
What sails came standard on a 2013 Catalina 355?
The standard 2013 Catalina 355 came with a battened mainsail and a 135 percent genoa, both from the factory sailmaker. Many owners upgraded to laminate or membrane sails for better shape retention. A furling headsail was standard. Check sail age and condition carefully, since replacement costs $6,000 to $12,000 for a full inventory.
Is the Catalina 445 good for offshore sailing?
The 445 handles coastal passages and light offshore work well, with a solid hull, fin keel, and balanced rudder. It is not built to the same scantlings as dedicated bluewater boats, but properly equipped 445s have made ocean crossings. Upgrade ground tackle, rigging, and safety gear before heading offshore. Crew experience matters more than the boat.
How many Catalina 315s were built?
Catalina produced several hundred 315s between 2012 and 2018, making it one of the more common modern Catalinas on the used market. Production volume means good parts availability and an active owner community. It also means buyers can be selective, choosing well-equipped examples rather than settling for the first available boat.
Sources
- https://www.catalinayachts.com
- https://www.cruisingworld.com
- https://www.sailingworld.com
- https://www.boatus.com
- https://www.yachtingmonthly.com
- https://www.practical-sailor.com
- https://www.sailmagazine.com
- https://www.yachtworld.com
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