The Catalina 16.5 is a popular sailing boat designed and manufactured by Catalina Yachts. It is a small, trailerable sailboat that offers a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience for both beginners and experienced sailors.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Catalina 16.5:
1. Size and Dimensions: The Catalina 16.5 has an overall length of 16 feet, 6 inches (5.03 meters) and a beam (width) of 7 feet, 6 inches (2.29 meters). It has a shallow draft of 2 feet, 3 inches (0.69 meters), making it suitable for sailing in various water conditions.
2. Construction: The boat is built with a fiberglass hull, which provides durability and strength. The deck is also made of fiberglass, ensuring a sturdy and reliable structure.
3. Sailing Performance: The Catalina 16.5 is designed to be easy to handle and sail. It features a simple rigging system with a single mast and a mainsail. The boat has a large cockpit, allowing for comfortable seating and easy maneuverability. It can accommodate up to four people, making it ideal for small groups or families.
4. Stability and Safety: The boat offers good stability, thanks to its wide beam and low center of gravity. It has a fixed keel, which helps in maintaining stability and prevents capsizing. The Catalina 16.5 also has positive flotation, meaning it will remain afloat even if it fills with water.
5. Trailerable: One of the advantages of the Catalina 16.5 is its trailerability. It can be easily transported on a trailer, allowing sailors to explore different sailing locations and launch from various ramps or marinas.
6. Optional Features: The boat offers various optional features to enhance the sailing experience, such as a roller furling jib, a boom vang, a spinnaker kit, and a motor mount for an outboard engine.
Overall, the Catalina 16.5 is a versatile and user-friendly sailing boat that provides a great balance between performance, comfort, and affordability. It is suitable for day sailing, weekend trips, or even racing in certain classes.
