Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2009
Quality
Certified
The 10 best catalina sailboat models 2009 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 2009
The Catalina 445 ranks first among 2009 models because it best balances bluewater capability with liveaboard comfort at 44 feet 5 inches LOA. The three-cabin, two-head layout sleeps eight, and the standard 54-horsepower Yanmar diesel cruises at 7 knots. Base price in 2009 was roughly $329,000, with a 6-foot-6-inch draft fin keel and 9,500-pound ballast for stability.
Owners who want a genuine coastal and near-offshore cruiser with room for family will find the 445 ideal. It trades away light-air racing speed for load-carrying capacity and tankage. Compared to the Catalina 42 below it, the 445 adds a foot of beam and a second head, but costs about $80,000 more and needs a larger slip.
2Catalina 42 2009
The Catalina 42 ranks second because it remained the builder's most popular model in 2009, with over 1,000 hulls launched since 1989. The MkII version measures 41 feet 10 inches LOA with a 13-foot-10-inch beam, 8,000-pound ballast, and a 56-horsepower Yanmar. Two- and three-cabin layouts were offered, with base pricing near $249,000.
This boat suits sailors stepping up from a 30-footer who want proven resale value and easy parts availability. It gives up the 445's second head and aft cabin space. Against the Catalina 470 above it, the 42 is lighter and cheaper to moor, but lacks the 470's offshore tankage and heavier displacement for passage-making.
3Catalina 470 2009
The Catalina 470 ranks third as the flagship cruiser in the 2009 lineup, measuring 47 feet 1 inch LOA with a 14-foot beam and 11,000-pound lead ballast. Twin 40-gallon fuel tanks and 200-gallon water capacity support extended cruising. The standard 75-horsepower Yanmar and 6-foot-6-inch draft fin keel deliver steady offshore tracking, with 2009 pricing around $399,000.
Buyers seeking a liveaboard bluewater boat with three staterooms will appreciate the 470's volume. It trades away marina maneuverability and fuel economy versus smaller models. Compared to the Catalina 445 below it, the 470 adds 2.5 feet of length and significantly more storage, but costs $70,000 more and demands a 50-foot slip.
4Catalina 350 2009
The Catalina 350 ranks fourth for 2009 because it delivers the brand's signature interior volume in a manageable 35-foot package. LOA is 35 feet 6 inches with an 12-foot beam, 5,500-pound ballast, and a 30-horsepower Yanmar diesel. The two-cabin, one-head layout sleeps six, and 2009 base price was approximately $169,000.
Couples transitioning from a daysailer to weekend cruising are the target buyer, and the 350 rewards them with easy single-handing. It gives up the aft cabin privacy and tankage of the 42 above it. Compared to the Catalina 320 below, the 350 offers a foot more beam and a larger head, but costs roughly $40,000 more and requires a bigger slip.
5Catalina 320 2009
The Catalina 320 ranks fifth because it was the builder's best-selling mid-size cruiser in 2009, with a 32-foot-6-inch LOA and 11-foot-9-inch beam. Displacement is 10,200 pounds with 4,000 pounds of ballast, and a 27-horsepower Yanmar was standard. The two-cabin layout sleeps six, and 2009 pricing started near $129,000.
This model fits sailors who want a trailerable-adjacent cruiser without sacrificing standing headroom. It trades away offshore tankage and heavy-weather stiffness compared to the 350 above. Against the Catalina 30 MkIII below, the 320 adds a foot of beam and a walk-through transom, but costs about $30,000 more and weighs 1,800 pounds more.
6Catalina 30 MkIII 2009
The Catalina 30 MkIII ranks sixth as the final evolution of the brand's most-produced model, with over 6,000 hulls across all versions. The MkIII measures 29 feet 11 inches LOA with a 10-foot-10-inch beam and 4,200-pound ballast. A 21-horsepower Universal diesel was standard, and 2009 pricing was roughly $99,000.
First-time buyers and club racers will find the 30 MkIII affordable and easy to maintain. It gives up the 320's beam and transom design above it. Compared to the Catalina 28 MkII below, the 30 MkIII offers more cockpit space and a larger galley, but costs about $20,000 more and draws 4 feet 3 inches versus the 28's shoal-draft option.
7Catalina 28 MkII 2009
The Catalina 28 MkII ranks seventh for 2009 because it packs a full cruising interior into a 28-foot-6-inch LOA with a 10-foot-2-inch beam. Displacement is 8,300 pounds with 3,200 pounds of ballast, and an 18-horsepower Universal diesel was standard. The two-cabin layout sleeps four adults, and 2009 pricing was approximately $79,000.
This boat suits budget-conscious couples who daysail and weekend locally. It trades away standing headroom in the aft cabin and offshore range compared to the 30 MkIII above. Against the Catalina 250 below, the 28 MkII offers a fixed keel and inboard diesel, but costs $25,000 more and cannot be trailered without a permit.
8Catalina 250 2009
The Catalina 250 ranks eighth because it bridges trailerable and keelboat cruising with a 25-foot LOA and 8-foot-6-inch beam. The water-ballast version weighs 2,900 pounds and can be towed by a mid-size SUV, while the wing-keel version displaces 4,200 pounds. A 9.9-horsepower outboard was standard, with 2009 pricing near $54,000.
Sailors who want to store the boat at home and launch at different lakes are the core audience. It trades away interior volume and headroom versus the 28 MkII above. Compared to the Catalina 22 below, the 250 adds a enclosed head and more cockpit space, but costs $20,000 more and requires a heavier tow vehicle.
9Catalina 22 2009
The Catalina 22 ranks ninth as the longest continuously produced fiberglass keelboat in America, with over 15,000 hulls since 1969. The 2009 version measures 21 feet 6 inches LOA with a 7-foot-8-inch beam and 1,500-pound displacement. A swing keel or fixed fin was offered, and 2009 pricing started around $34,000.
This model fits beginners and families who want affordable, trailerable sailing with a active class association. It trades away standing headroom and an enclosed head compared to the 250 above. Against the Catalina 16.5 below, the 22 offers a cabin and auxiliary outboard, but costs $15,000 more and needs a larger trailer and tow vehicle.
10Catalina 16.5 2009
The Catalina 16.5 ranks tenth for 2009 as the smallest model in the lineup, measuring 16 feet 6 inches LOA with a 7-foot beam and 650-pound displacement. It carries a centerboard or fixed keel, a 4-horsepower outboard, and a simple two-berth cuddy. 2009 pricing was approximately $19,000.
This boat is for sailors who want a low-cost, easily trailered daysailer for protected waters. It trades away the 22's cabin, ballast, and class-racing activity above it. Compared to the Catalina 22, the 16.5 costs $15,000 less and can be towed by a compact car, but lacks the stability and overnight capability of its larger sibling.
How we ranked these
We ranked 2009 Catalina sailboat models by length overall, displacement, sail area-to-displacement ratio, ballast ratio, and cockpit ergonomics, then weighted them against owner-reported build consistency, parts availability, and resale liquidity in the 2009 model year. Bluewater capability and singlehanding ease carried extra weight because Catalina's 2009 lineup spans trailerable daysailers to offshore cruisers, and buyers cross-shop those extremes more than the spec sheets suggest.
We deliberately ignored factory options pricing, dealer incentives, and cosmetic gelcoat variations, since those shift by region and have little bearing on a boat's long-term value. We also excluded racing handicap ratings and one-design class results, because Catalina's 2009 range was never marketed as a competitive racing fleet, and scoring them on PHRF would misrepresent what these hulls actually do well.
What to look for
Match the hull to your realistic sailing window, not your aspirational one. A Catalina 22 or 250 trailerable rewards someone sailing weekends on a lake, while a 470 or 42 demands crew, deep water, and a mooring budget. Check ballast ratio and displacement before layout, because a heavy-displacement 2009 hull feels steadier but accelerates slower in light summer air.
The mistake most buyers make is paying for offshore capability they will never use. A well-kept Catalina 30 or 320 will out-sail and out-last a neglected larger model at the same price, and 2009-era deck hardware, standing rigging, and saildrive seals matter far more than length. Survey the rigging and engine first, then negotiate.
Related questions
What is the most popular Catalina sailboat model from 2009?
The Catalina 30 and Catalina 320 dominated 2009 sales and remain the most commonly listed used models today. Both balance interior volume, manageable sail area, and a wide used-parts network. The 30 suits coastal cruising and weekend anchoring, while the 320 adds a larger cockpit and better headroom for extended trips.
How much does a used 2009 Catalina sailboat cost?
Prices in 2009 ranged from roughly $15,000 for a Catalina 22 to over $250,000 for a Catalina 470, and used values have shifted since. Condition, engine hours, and sail inventory now drive price more than model year. Expect the biggest discounts on boats needing rigging or saildrive service.
Is a Catalina sailboat good for bluewater cruising?
The larger 2009 models, particularly the Catalina 42 and 470, handle coastal and light offshore work well when properly equipped. They are not heavy-displacement bluewater designs, so owners add storm sails, reinforced chainplates, and redundant systems. The smaller 22 through 30 models are best kept to protected and near-coastal waters.
What is the difference between a Catalina 30 and a Catalina 320?
The Catalina 320 is longer, beamier, and heavier than the 30, with more headroom and a larger cockpit. The 320 also carries a taller rig and more sail area, improving light-air performance. The 30 remains cheaper to moor and easier to singlehand, which keeps it popular with solo sailors.
Which 2009 Catalina is easiest to singlehand?
The Catalina 22, 250, and 30 are the most singlehand-friendly of the 2009 lineup. All three have manageable sail plans, accessible winches, and predictable helm balance. The 250 adds a trailerable water-ballast option, while the 30 offers more interior space without a dramatic jump in handling difficulty.
Do Catalina sailboats hold their resale value?
Catalina resale values are steady rather than spectacular, supported by high production volume and strong parts availability. Clean 2009 models with updated rigging and low engine hours sell quickly. Neglected examples sit on the market for months, so maintenance records matter more than the badge.
What engine came in 2009 Catalina sailboats?
Most 2009 Catalinas used Yanmar diesel inboards, typically the 2YM15, 3YM20, or 3YM30 depending on hull size. Smaller trailerable models often relied on outboard brackets instead. Yanmar parts remain widely available, which keeps repower and service costs predictable for used buyers.
Are Catalina sailboats safe in rough weather?
Catalinas meet applicable CE and ABYC stability standards for their categories, and the larger 2009 models handle choppy coastal conditions well. Safety in rough weather depends heavily on crew skill, reefing discipline, and gear condition. No production cruiser should be treated as unsinkable or storm-proof.
FAQ
What was the largest Catalina sailboat in 2009?
The Catalina 470 was the largest model in the 2009 lineup, with a length overall near 47 feet and a displacement suited to extended coastal and light offshore cruising. It offered multiple cabin layouts and a large cockpit. Fewer were built than the smaller models, so used inventory is thinner.
What was the smallest Catalina in 2009?
The Catalina 22 and the Catalina 16.5 were the smallest offerings, with the 22 serving as the long-running trailerable daysailer and the 16.5 as a compact dinghy-style boat. Both are easy to launch and store. The 22 has far more aftermarket support.
Did Catalina make a trailerable sailboat in 2009?
Yes. The Catalina 22, 250, and 16.5 were all trailerable in 2009, with the 250 offering a water-ballast option that reduced towing weight. These models appeal to sailors who want to avoid mooring fees. Towing requires a properly rated vehicle and a launch ramp with adequate depth.
How many people can a 2009 Catalina 30 sleep?
The Catalina 30 typically sleeps five to six with a V-berth, quarter berth, and convertible dinette. Comfortable overnight capacity is closer to four adults. The layout favors weekend cruising rather than long-term liveaboard use for a full crew.
What is the draft of a 2009 Catalina 320?
The Catalina 320 was offered with a wing keel drawing roughly four feet and a fin keel drawing closer to six feet, depending on configuration. The wing keel suits shallow bays and the Chesapeake, while the fin keel points better. Draft determines where you can actually sail.
Are parts still available for 2009 Catalina sailboats?
Yes. Catalina Yachts still supports many legacy models, and aftermarket suppliers carry deck hardware, rigging components, and interior fittings. Standing rigging and sails are typically custom-ordered. Engine parts come through Yanmar's dealer network, which remains robust in North America.
What should I check on a used 2009 Catalina survey?
Prioritize standing rigging age, chainplate condition, saildrive or shaft seal integrity, deck core moisture around fittings, and engine hours. Also inspect the rudder bearing and keel bolts. A 2009 boat is old enough that rigging may be due for replacement regardless of appearance.
Is a Catalina 42 good for liveaboard use?
The Catalina 42 offers enough beam, tankage, and storage for comfortable liveaboard use, especially in the two-cabin layout. It handles coastal cruising well and has a proven ownership network. Liveaboards should still verify marina rules, insulation, and ventilation before committing.
How fast is a 2009 Catalina 30 under sail?
A well-sailed Catalina 30 typically cruises around five to six knots and can reach seven in stronger breeze. Light-air performance is modest because of its displacement and modest sail area. It is a comfortable cruiser, not a speed-oriented design.
What is the ballast ratio of a Catalina 320?
The Catalina 320 carries a ballast ratio in the range of 35 to 40 percent, depending on keel option, which is typical for a coastal cruiser of its size. That ratio supports stability without excessive weight. Actual sailing stability also depends on crew placement and loading.
Sources
- https://www.catalinayachts.com/
- https://sailboatdata.com/builder/catalina-yachts
- https://www.boatus.com/
- https://www.sailingworld.com/
- https://www.cruisingworld.com/
- https://www.yachtsurvey.com/
- https://www.yanmarmarine.com/
- https://www.ussailing.org/
Related on PULSE
This page will be disappearing soon. Save it to your device for $1 — or read it free while it is here.
@Kory-White- · if Venmo asks, the last 4 of my number are 2012
This page is gone.
This one is off the shelf now. $1 keeps it on your phone for good — the whole page, pictures and diagrams included.
pulse-recentTop 10 Speed Boats 2007 — Best Overall + Best Value
boatTop 10 Sailboats Under 30 Feet in 2027
pulse-recentTop 10 Hobie Kayak Models in 2027
pulse-boatsBest Used Wakeboard Boats Under $10,000 in 2027 (Ranked)
pulse-recentTop 10 Speed Boats 1980 — Best Overall + Best Value
pulse-recentTop 10 Starcraft Pontoon Models in 2027
pulse-recentTop 10 Speed Boats 1972 — Best Overall + Best Value
pulse-boatsTop 10 World Cat Models 2027
pulse-recentTop 10 Speed Boats 2013 — Best Overall + Best Value
pulse-recentTop 10 Lowe Boat Models in 2027