The Catalina 36 MkI is a popular sailing boat that was first introduced in 1982 by Catalina Yachts, a renowned American sailboat manufacturer. It is a mid-sized cruising sailboat designed for comfortable and enjoyable sailing experiences.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Catalina 36 MkI:
1. Size and Layout: The Catalina 36 MkI has an overall length of 36 feet (10.97 meters) and a beam of 11 feet 11 inches (3.63 meters). It typically has a spacious and well-designed interior layout with a comfortable cabin, a saloon, a galley, a head (bathroom), and sleeping accommodations for up to seven people.
2. Construction: The boat is built with a solid fiberglass hull, a lead keel for stability, and a fiberglass deck. The construction is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for both coastal cruising and offshore passages.
3. Sailing Performance: The Catalina 36 MkI is designed to offer a good balance between performance and comfort. It has a moderate displacement and a fin keel, which provides stability and helps in maintaining a good sailing speed. The boat is known for its easy handling and responsiveness, making it suitable for both experienced and novice sailors.
4. Rigging and Sail Plan: The boat features a masthead sloop rig, which consists of a single mast and a foretriangle. It typically comes with a roller furling headsail, making it easy to handle and adjust the sail area according to the wind conditions. The mainsail is usually equipped with slab reefing, allowing for easy reefing and reducing sail area in strong winds.
5. Interior Comfort: The Catalina 36 MkI offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior. The cabin usually features a spacious saloon with a dining area, a well-equipped galley with a stove, oven, sink, and refrigerator, and a navigation station. The head is equipped with a marine toilet, sink, and shower. The boat's interior is known for its ample storage space and good ventilation.
6. Cockpit and Deck: The cockpit of the Catalina 36 MkI is designed for comfort and safety. It typically features a large seating area with cockpit cushions, a steering pedestal with a compass and engine controls, and easy access to the sail controls. The deck layout is well-organized, with wide side decks and sturdy handrails for safe movement around the boat.
Overall, the Catalina 36 MkI is a well-regarded cruising sailboat known for its comfortable interior, good sailing performance, and durability. It has become a popular choice among sailors looking for a mid-sized boat that offers a balance between performance and comfort.
