The Catalina 34 MkI is a popular sailing boat that was first introduced in 1985 by Catalina Yachts, a renowned American sailboat manufacturer. It is a mid-sized cruiser-racer sailboat designed for comfortable cruising and occasional racing.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Catalina 34 MkI:
1. Dimensions: The boat has an overall length of 34 feet (10.36 meters), a beam (width) of 11 feet 9 inches (3.58 meters), and a draft (depth) of 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters). It has a displacement of approximately 11,950 pounds (5,420 kilograms).
2. Design: The Catalina 34 MkI features a moderate displacement hull with a fin keel and a spade rudder. It has a balanced sail plan with a masthead rig, making it easy to handle and providing good performance in various wind conditions.
3. Accommodation: The boat offers a spacious and comfortable interior layout suitable for extended cruising. It typically has a V-berth cabin in the forward section, a main saloon with a dinette that converts into a double berth, a well-equipped galley, a head (bathroom), and an aft cabin with a double berth.
4. Construction: The Catalina 34 MkI is built using a solid fiberglass hull, which provides strength and durability. The deck is constructed with a balsa core for added stiffness and insulation. The boat has a shoal draft option available for sailing in shallower waters.
5. Sailing Performance: The Catalina 34 MkI is known for its good sailing performance and stability. It has a generous sail area, including a large mainsail and a 135% genoa, which allows for efficient upwind sailing. The boat is also equipped with a roller furling system for easy sail handling.
6. Systems and Equipment: The boat is equipped with various systems and equipment to enhance comfort and convenience on board. This includes a well-equipped galley with a stove, oven, sink, and refrigerator, a marine head with a shower, a freshwater system, and ample storage space.
7. Production and Legacy: The Catalina 34 MkI was produced from 1985 to 1988, with hundreds of units built during that time. It is considered a classic design and has a strong following among sailors. The boat's popularity is attributed to its comfortable interior, good sailing characteristics, and overall value for money.
Overall, the Catalina 34 MkI is a well-regarded sailing boat that offers a balance of comfort, performance, and affordability. It is suitable for cruising enthusiasts who seek a mid-sized sailboat with a spacious interior and reliable sailing capabilities.
