The CATALINA 42 MK II is a popular sailboat model produced by Catalina Yachts, a renowned American sailboat manufacturer. It is a cruising sailboat designed for comfort, performance, and ease of handling. Here are some key features and characteristics of the CATALINA 42 MK II:
1. Size and Layout: The boat measures 42 feet in length, with a beam (width) of 13 feet and a draft (depth) of 6 feet. It typically has a spacious two-cabin layout, with a large master cabin in the aft (rear) and a guest cabin in the forward section. The saloon area offers ample seating and a well-equipped galley.
2. Construction: The CATALINA 42 MK II is built using a solid fiberglass hull, ensuring durability and strength. The deck is made of a balsa core sandwich construction, providing stiffness and insulation. The boat features a moderate displacement design, striking a balance between stability and performance.
3. Rigging and Sails: The sail plan of the CATALINA 42 MK II includes a masthead sloop rig with a furling headsail. The mainsail is typically equipped with in-mast furling, allowing for easy reefing and sail handling. The boat's rigging is designed to be manageable by a small crew, making it suitable for single-handed sailing.
4. Performance: The CATALINA 42 MK II offers a comfortable and stable sailing experience. It has a moderate beam and a fin keel, providing good upwind performance and maneuverability. The boat's design emphasizes ease of handling, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those new to sailing.
5. Interior Comfort: The interior of the CATALINA 42 MK II is designed to provide comfort and livability. The master cabin in the aft typically features a centerline queen-sized berth, ample storage, and an en-suite head (bathroom). The guest cabin in the forward section usually has a double berth and a shared head. The saloon area offers a spacious seating arrangement, a well-equipped galley with a stove, oven, refrigerator, and a navigation station.
6. Amenities and Features: The CATALINA 42 MK II is equipped with various amenities and features to enhance the onboard experience. These may include air conditioning, heating, a generator, a watermaker, a chartplotter, autopilot, and a sound system. The boat also has a large cockpit with comfortable seating, a swim platform, and a walkthrough transom for easy access to the water.
Overall, the CATALINA 42 MK II is a well-regarded cruising sailboat known for its comfort, performance, and ease of handling. It offers a spacious interior, a versatile sail plan, and various amenities to ensure an enjoyable sailing experience.
