Catalina 25 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Catalina 25 emerged from Catalina Yachts' production lines in 1978, continuing the builder's tradition of creating accessible and reliable sailboats. Production of the model ran until 1994. notes Frank Butler, the founder and chief designer for Catalina, instilled a design ethos focused on practicality, comfort, and value. The Catalina 25 reflects this commitment, aiming to construct "good boats" that are "straightforward, offer price for value, are solid and honest." During this era, Catalina Yachts embraced fiberglass as its primary construction material, employing a robust five-piece construction method that included a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner, ensuring durability.

Throughout its production run, the Catalina 25 saw several variations to cater to diverse sailing needs. Beyond the standard fin keel configuration, the model was also available with a swing-keel for shallow water access and trailerability, and a cast lead wing keel option. 1, notes Additionally, sailors could choose between a standard rig and a tall rig version, offering different sail plan characteristics. notes

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catalina 25, with its modest dimensions and robust build, is generally regarded as a fair sailer, prioritizing comfort and stability over outright speed. It is well-suited for inland and coastal waters, serving as a versatile racer/cruiser.

Analysis of its key performance ratios reveals a balanced approach to design:

• With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.74, the Catalina 25 performs adequately across a range of wind conditions, leaning towards a comfortable cruising pace rather than a high-performance profile.
• Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 41.7% indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a reassuring motion in a seaway.
• The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 186.27 places the Catalina 25 in the moderate displacement category, suggesting a design that balances interior volume and robust construction with reasonable sailing efficiency.

Anecdotal reports from experienced Catalina 25 sailors suggest a tendency toward weather helm, which can often be managed through early reefing or adjustments to rudder design. Overall, the boat is appreciated for its predictable handling and solid feel under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its 25-foot length overall, the Catalina 25 is praised for offering a surprisingly spacious interior, a direct result of its full hull shape. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the cabin generally provides a comfortable environment for its size, designed for weekend cruising and short-term stays.

The interior layout typically features a forward V-berth, which some taller owners note can be snug. A marine head, often a porta-potty, is commonly situated between the V-berth and the main salon. The salon usually includes opposing settees that can double as berths, often flanking a central table. The galley typically comprises a sink and space for a portable stove, catering to basic meal preparation. Storage is integrated throughout the cabin, with lockers and compartments built in under seats and berths. The main cabin is frequently trimmed with solid teakwood, contributing to a classic and warm interior aesthetic. The Catalina 25 was offered with at least two different interior layout options.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina 25 frequently commend its robust construction relative to its price point, highlighting its lasting value and versatility for various sailing activities, including racing, trailering, and day or night sailing. Many express satisfaction with their purchase, citing the boat's sturdy nature once any initial weak points are addressed.

However, common maintenance considerations and potential issues have been noted by the owner community. A recurring concern is the possibility of bottom blistering, particularly on models where an epoxy barrier coat was not applied beneath the antifouling paint. Deck delamination due to water intrusion, often originating around the mast, is another frequently mentioned problem that owners may encounter. Furthermore, "keel smiles"—issues with the keel-to-hull joint—can be a common problem on fixed-keel versions, and general Catalina models have sometimes faced issues like mast compression fatigue or deck fitting leaks. Despite these points, the Catalina 25 benefits from a strong and active owner community that offers extensive support and resources for maintenance and upgrades.