Catalina boats
Catalina is a production sailboat builder known for affordable cruising designs, with 2396 hulls registered in the US fleet. The median size is 25 ft, spanning 30 models primarily from the 1980s era. These boats attract first time cruisers and coastal sailors looking for value and simplicity.
Catalina used price range
From 1,541 live listings in BoatVerdict's market data (10th, 50th, 90th percentile).
See Catalina values by model year →Are Catalina boats reliable?
With zero USCG recalls on record and a large established fleet, Catalina boats show solid build quality for their price point. Owner costs center on aging auxiliary engines (split roughly between diesel and gasoline) and the typical 1980s sailboat maintenance: rigging replacement, deck hardware rebedding, and fiberglass blister repair. The affordable used market ($4500 to $42900, median $12500) reflects their status as workhorse cruisers rather than premium builds.
Common problems to inspect on a used Catalina
- Deck to hull joint separation or crazing
- Rudder bearing wear and tiller post corrosion
- Through hull fittings and seacock condition
- Standing rigging fatigue on 1980s vintage boats
Registry footprint
Sample = US state open-data vessel registries (currently Texas + New York, ~875k vessels). Treat as a representative slice of recreational US inventory.
Models we cover in depth (1)
Recalls (0)
No USCG recalls on file for Catalina.
USCG MIC entries (4)
Frequently asked questions
Are Catalina sailboats good for beginners?
Yes, their straightforward systems, large owner community, and affordable parts make them ideal first cruisers. The 25 ft median size is manageable for new sailors.
What is the typical price range for a used Catalina?
Used Catalinas range from $4500 for older project boats to $42900 for well maintained examples, with a median of $12500. This makes them one of the most accessible entry points to cruising.
How reliable are Catalina boats?
Catalina has zero USCG recalls and a proven track record across 2396 registered hulls. Reliability depends more on prior owner maintenance than inherent design flaws.
What should I inspect on a 1980s Catalina?
Focus on the deck to hull joint, standing rigging (most common years are 1982 to 1988), rudder bearings, and engine condition. These are the highest cost maintenance items.
Looking at a specific Catalina?
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