Catalina 22 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Catalina 22 Mk II’s story begins with the immense success of the original Catalina 22, first introduced in 1969. Frank Butler, driven by a desire to build "good boats" that offered "price for value, are solid and honest," created a phenomenon with the initial Catalina 22, which sold in unprecedented numbers. The Mk II, introduced in 1995, was an upgraded version, featuring a hull that is notably eight inches wider than the original, contributing to a more spacious interior.

Catalina Yachts has consistently applied a robust five-piece construction method, including a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner, ensuring durability and a common-sense approach to boat building. The Catalina 22 Mk II continued this tradition, being constructed with a fiberglass hull and deck. Throughout its production run, the Mk II was available with various keel options, including a fin keel, a wing keel (with a draft of 2.5 feet), and a swing keel for ultimate trailerability (drafting from 2.0 feet up to 5.0 feet when fully extended). This adaptability further broadened its appeal, catering to different sailing environments and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 24 feet (23.83 ft) and a waterline length of 19.33 feet, the Catalina 22 Mk II is designed for ease of handling and enjoyable performance. Its masthead sloop rig, with a total calculated sail area of approximately 209 square feet, provides ample power for its 2,290 lbs displacement. The boat's transom-hung rudder and various keel options contribute to its responsive handling characteristics.

The Catalina 22 Mk II is known for being a forgiving boat, making it an excellent platform for learning to sail. Its stable nature and simple rig allow for confident navigation in a variety of conditions. With a hull speed of 5.89 knots, it offers respectable performance for a boat of its size, capable of both leisurely cruising and competitive club racing within its active one-design fleet. Owners often praise its overall balance and predictable behavior, contributing to a pleasant sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Catalina 22 Mk II boasts a surprisingly accommodating interior, largely due to its wider hull compared to earlier versions. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the redesigned cabin offers a much-improved living space. The typical layout includes sleeping accommodations for up to four, often with a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette in the main salon, and quarter berths aft.

The interior of the Mk II focuses on practical comfort, often featuring warm wood trim combined with durable fiberglass surfaces. A compact galley area is usually found, providing basic amenities for meal preparation, and a dedicated space for a marine head (often a porta-potty) is typically incorporated. Owners appreciate the improved layout for its functionality and the enhanced sense of space, which makes extended weekends on board more comfortable. Storage is generally adequate for a boat of this size, with lockers and compartments integrated throughout the cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina 22 Mk II frequently commend its robust construction, ease of maintenance, and the overall value it provides. The strong and active Catalina 22 owner community is a significant asset, offering a wealth of shared knowledge, support, and organized events. Many owners highlight the boat's excellent stability and its forgiving nature, making it ideal for families or those new to sailing.

Common strengths often cited include its trailerability, allowing for exploration of diverse waterways, and the versatility of its keel options. While generally well-regarded, some owners may note that, like many boats of its vintage, original deck fittings can sometimes develop leaks over time, requiring re-bedding as a common maintenance item. However, these are generally considered manageable issues, and the enduring popularity of the Catalina 22 Mk II speaks to its overall design and quality.