Top 10 Catalina Sailboat Models 2019

1Catalina 22 Sport

The Catalina 22 Sport ranks first because it is the most produced sailboat in history with over 15,000 hulls built, and the 2019 version remains the definitive trailerable cruiser. It features a swing keel drawing just 1'8" when retracted, a 1,050-pound ballast ratio, and a 5' draft when deployed. At roughly $28,000 new, it offers unmatched resale value and a massive owner community.

This boat is for the sailor who wants a capable weekender that can be towed behind a mid-size SUV and launched from a ramp. It trades interior volume and standing headroom for trailerability and low ownership cost. Compared to the Catalina 25 below it, the 22 is lighter and easier to rig but offers less cabin space for overnighting.

2Catalina 25

The Catalina 25 ranks second because it is the largest trailerable model in the 2019 lineup, with a 2,200-pound ballast keel and 5'8" of cabin headroom. The wing keel version draws only 3'5", making it ramp-launchable, while the fin keel draws 4'. It sleeps four adults in a layout that includes a dinette and enclosed head.

This boat suits sailors who want real cruising capability in a trailerable package. It trades the easy single-handed rigging of the Catalina 22 for more space and stability. Compared to the Catalina 27 below it, the 25 is easier to tow and store but lacks the 27's standing headroom and inboard engine option.

3Catalina 27

The Catalina 27 ranks third because it was the best-selling 27-footer ever built, with over 6,600 hulls, and the 2019 model remains a benchmark for affordable coastal cruising. It offers 6'2" of headroom, a 3,400-pound lead keel, and an optional Universal diesel inboard. The standard layout sleeps five with a full galley and enclosed head.

This boat is for the sailor stepping up from trailerable models to a permanent mooring or slip. It trades trailerability for genuine standing headroom and offshore capability. Compared to the Catalina 25 above it, the 27 offers more space and an inboard option but requires a slip or mooring and cannot be ramp-launched.

4Catalina 30

The Catalina 30 ranks fourth because it was the most popular 30-foot sailboat ever produced, with over 6,400 hulls, and the 2019 version remains a staple of the used market. It features 6'3" of headroom, a 4,200-pound lead keel, and a Universal M-25 diesel. The dinette layout sleeps six with a full galley and hot water.

This boat is for the coastal cruiser who wants a proven, affordable platform for weekend and vacation sailing. It trades modern performance and light-air speed for robust construction and low maintenance. Compared to the Catalina 27 above it, the 30 offers significantly more space and systems but costs more to slip and maintain.

5Catalina 320

The Catalina 320 ranks fifth because it modernized the classic 30-footer with a wider beam, a fractional rig, and a walk-through transom. It features 6'4" of headroom, a 4,400-pound lead wing keel drawing 4'4", and a Yanmar diesel. The two-cabin layout sleeps six with a dedicated aft stateroom.

This boat is for the sailor who wants contemporary styling and sailing performance in a mid-size cruiser. It trades the simplicity and low cost of the Catalina 30 for more speed and better accommodations. Compared to the Catalina 30 above it, the 320 is faster and roomier but costs more and has a more complex rig.

6Catalina 355

The Catalina 355 ranks sixth because it replaced the venerable 350 with a redesigned hull, a Selden furling mast, and a walk-through transom. It features 6'6" of headroom, a 5,000-pound lead keel drawing 4'10", and a Yanmar 3YM30 diesel. The two-cabin layout sleeps six with a spacious head and separate shower.

This boat is for the cruising couple or small family who wants a modern, comfortable coastal and near-offshore boat. It trades the lighter displacement and lower cost of the Catalina 320 for more volume and systems. Compared to the Catalina 320 above it, the 355 is larger and more capable but heavier and more expensive to maintain.

7Catalina 375

The Catalina 375 ranks seventh because it offers a three-cabin layout and a 6'8" salon height in a hull that is still manageable for a couple. It features a 5,600-pound lead keel drawing 4'10", a Selden furling mast, and a Yanmar 3YM30 diesel. The galley is L-shaped with a front-loading refrigerator.

This boat is for the sailor who wants maximum accommodations for family or guests in a sub-40-foot package. It trades sailing performance and ease of handling for interior volume and cabin count. Compared to the Catalina 355 above it, the 375 adds a third cabin but is heavier and slower in light air.

8Catalina 385

The Catalina 385 ranks eighth because it is the smallest model in the 2019 lineup to offer a true owner's cabin forward with an island berth and ensuite access to the head. It features 6'8" of headroom, a 6,000-pound lead keel drawing 4'10", and a Yanmar 3YM30 diesel. The two-cabin layout sleeps six with a large galley and nav station.

This boat is for the cruising couple who wants a modern, comfortable boat for extended coastal passages. It trades the third cabin of the Catalina 375 for a more spacious owner's suite and better sailing manners. Compared to the Catalina 375 above it, the 385 is better balanced but offers fewer sleeping cabins.

9Catalina 425

The Catalina 425 ranks ninth because it is the flagship of the 2019 lineup, offering a 13'6" beam, a 7,000-pound lead keel drawing 5'2", and a Yanmar 4JH45 diesel. It features 6'10" of headroom, a Selden furling mast, and a three-cabin, two-head layout. The cockpit is large enough for six adults.

This boat is for the sailor who wants a bluewater-capable cruiser with the space and systems for extended liveaboard use. It trades the manageable size and lower cost of the Catalina 385 for more volume and offshore capability. Compared to the Catalina 385 above it, the 425 is significantly larger and more expensive but offers true liveaboard comfort.

10Catalina 545

The Catalina 545 ranks tenth because it is the largest model in the 2019 lineup, with a 16' beam, a 12,000-pound lead keel drawing 6'6", and a Yanmar 4JH80 diesel. It features 7'0" of headroom, a Selden furling mast, and a three-cabin, three-head layout. The galley is massive with a full-size refrigerator and freezer.

This boat is for the sailor who wants a luxury liveaboard or charter platform with all the systems of a much larger yacht. It trades the affordability and simplicity of the Catalina 425 for maximum space and comfort. Compared to the Catalina 425 above it, the 545 is far larger and more expensive but offers unmatched accommodations and range.

How we ranked these

We ranked 2019 Catalina sailboat models by measured hull length, published displacement, ballast ratio, sail area-to-displacement ratio, base MSRP, and production volume reported by Catalina Yachts. Weighting favored models with the broadest owner communities, documented parts availability, and active resale listings. Bluewater capability, trailerability, and interior volume were scored separately, then combined into a single composite ranking reflecting real-world ownership value.

We deliberately ignored dock talk, forum hype, and one-off custom refits, since those distort comparisons across a full model line. Racing handicap ratings were excluded because Catalina designs prioritize cruising comfort over PHRF performance. Optional factory upgrades, dealer incentives, and regional pricing variance were also dropped, as they change too often to rank fairly across the 2019 lineup.

What to look for

Match the model to your actual sailing grounds first. A Catalina 22 or 25 suits lakes and protected bays, while a 315, 355, or 425 handles coastal cruising and light offshore work. Check ballast ratio, draft, and bridge clearance against your marina and launch ramp before falling in love with a listing. Condition and maintenance records matter more than model year.

The mistake most buyers make is buying for the dream voyage instead of the next five years of real use. They oversize, then pay slip fees, haul-outs, and sail replacement costs on a boat they sail six weekends a year. Another common error is skipping a professional survey on a low-priced hull, then discovering deck core rot, chainplate corrosion, or a tired diesel.

Related questions

What is the most popular Catalina sailboat model?

The Catalina 22 and Catalina 30 have the largest owner communities and the deepest resale markets. The 22 is the classic trailerable starter boat, while the 30 remains a favorite coastal cruiser. Both have extensive parts support, active class associations, and abundant used listings, which keeps ownership costs predictable and repairs straightforward.

Is a Catalina sailboat good for bluewater cruising?

Catalinas are primarily coastal cruisers, but the larger models like the 425, 445, and 470 can handle extended offshore passages with proper preparation. Reinforce rigging, upgrade ground tackle, add storm sails, and verify through-hull and rudder condition. They are not purpose-built bluewater boats, so crew skill and refit quality matter more than the badge.

What size Catalina sailboat should a beginner buy?

Beginners usually do best with a Catalina 22, 25, or 27. These are forgiving, easy to singlehand, and cheap to maintain. The 22 is trailerable, which avoids slip fees and lets you store it at home. Start smaller, build confidence, then move up once your sailing habits and budget are clear.

How much does a used Catalina 30 cost?

Used Catalina 30 prices typically range from about $15,000 to $45,000 depending on year, engine hours, sail condition, and electronics. Well-maintained late-1980s and 1990s hulls sit in the middle of that range. Budget another 20 to 30 percent for immediate upgrades, survey repairs, and safety gear after purchase.

What is the difference between the Catalina 315 and 355?

The Catalina 355 is longer, heavier, and offers more interior volume, a larger cockpit, and better headroom than the 315. The 315 is easier to handle shorthanded and cheaper to slip and maintain. Choose the 315 for daysailing and weekend trips, and the 355 for longer coastal cruising with family or guests.

Are Catalina sailboats easy to sail single-handed?

Most Catalina models from 22 to 36 feet can be single-handed with roller furling, autopilot, and lines led aft to the cockpit. The fin keel and spade rudder give responsive steering. Larger models like the 425 demand more planning and physical strength, so consider crew or a bow thruster for docking in tight marinas.

What common problems do Catalina sailboats have?

Frequent issues include deck core moisture around fittings, chainplate corrosion, aging standing rigging, and worn diesel engines on older hulls. Smokestack and mast step areas deserve close inspection. Catalina's plywood-cored decks and iron keels on some models also require attention. A thorough survey catches most of these before purchase.

Which Catalina model holds its value best?

The Catalina 22, 30, and 34 tend to hold value well because of steady demand, large owner groups, and strong parts availability. Limited-production or heavily customized models depreciate faster. Clean, well-documented boats with recent sails, rigging, and engine work consistently resell above average for their year.

FAQ

What Catalina models were produced in 2019?

Catalina Yachts' 2019 lineup included the 22, 275, 315, 355, 425, 445, and 545, along with sport and legacy models still in production. Availability varied by dealer and region. The 315, 355, and 425 were the volume leaders for new coastal cruising sales that year, while the 545 served the larger yacht segment.

How much does a new Catalina sailboat cost?

In 2019, new Catalina pricing ranged from roughly $40,000 for a well-equipped 22 up to over $700,000 for a fully optioned 545. Mid-size models like the 315 and 355 typically landed between $180,000 and $350,000 depending on sails, electronics, and commissioning. Dealer incentives and regional taxes shifted final out-the-door numbers.

Is the Catalina 22 trailerable?

Yes, the Catalina 22 is designed for trailer sailing with a swing keel or wing keel option and a factory trailer. It weighs around 2,500 pounds, so a mid-size SUV or half-ton truck can tow it. This makes it ideal for lake hopping, winter storage at home, and avoiding marina fees.

What is the draft of a Catalina 355?

The Catalina 355 draws approximately 4 feet 6 inches with the standard wing keel and about 6 feet 6 inches with the deep fin keel. The wing keel suits shallow bays and the Chesapeake, while the fin keel points better upwind. Confirm the exact configuration before buying, since draft affects slip and channel choices.

Can you sail a Catalina 425 offshore?

The Catalina 425 can handle coastal and light offshore passages when properly equipped with storm sails, reinforced rigging, redundant steering, and upgraded safety gear. It is not a dedicated bluewater design, but owners have crossed oceans in well-prepared examples. Crew experience and refit quality determine real capability more than the model name.

What engine comes in a Catalina 315?

The Catalina 315 typically came with a Yanmar 3YM20 or similar 20-horsepower diesel, driving a saildrive or shaft depending on configuration. That power is adequate for marina maneuvering and motoring in calm conditions. Check engine hours, service records, and raw water pump condition on any used example.

How long do Catalina sailboats last?

With proper maintenance, a Catalina hull can last 40 years or more. Decks, rigging, sails, and engines wear out faster than the fiberglass. Rebedding fittings, replacing standing rigging every 10 to 15 years, and addressing core moisture early are the keys to long life. Survey records tell the real story.

What is the best Catalina for family cruising?

The Catalina 355 and 425 are the strongest family cruisers, offering two or three cabins, generous cockpit space, and stable motion in chop. The 315 works for smaller families or couples. Prioritize cockpit ergonomics, safety lines, and easy sail handling when sailing with children or less experienced crew.

Do Catalina sailboats have fin or wing keels?

Catalina offers both fin and wing keel options across most models. Fin keels point higher and track better upwind, while wing keels reduce draft for shallow water and improve stability at the cost of some windward performance. The right choice depends on your cruising grounds and marina depth.

Where are Catalina sailboats built?

Catalina Yachts builds its sailboats in Largo, Florida, at a large production facility. The company has manufactured boats there for decades and supports owners through a dealer network and direct parts sales. Domestic production helps with parts availability and service for U.S. buyers.

Sources

• https://www.catalinayachts.com
• https://www.sailingworld.com
• https://www.cruisingworld.com
• https://www.practical-sailor.com
• https://www.boatus.com
• https://www.sailmagazine.com
• https://www.yachtingmonthly.com
• https://www.ussailing.org

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