Catalina 250 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Catalina Yachts, a venerable American institution founded in 1969 by Frank Butler, the 250 benefits from a design philosophy focused on producing "good boats" that are "straightforward, offer price for value, are solid and honest". This ethos emphasizes robust construction, practical layouts, and a common-sense approach to boat building, which has allowed Catalina to become one of the largest boat manufacturers globally, with over 80,000 boats produced to date.

History and Design

The Catalina 250 made its debut in 1995, marking a significant milestone for Catalina Yachts as their first water ballast trailerable sailboat. This innovative design aimed to provide sailors with the freedom to explore a wider range of sailing grounds, addressing a growing demand for boats that could be easily transported by road. The design team, including chief designer Gerry Douglas, focused on creating a purpose-built boat adequate for day sailing and casual overnighting, prioritizing functionality and value.

Throughout its production, the Catalina 250 was offered with several keel variations to suit different sailing needs and preferences. These included a fixed fin keel, a wing keel, and a water ballast system combined with a lifting centerboard. The water ballast model, a hallmark of the 250, utilized a slab-like box inside the hull to hold water, allowing for lighter trailering and increased stability once launched. Catalina's consistent manufacturing ethos, involving a robust five-piece construction method with a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner, ensured durability across all versions. Later models, such as the Catalina 250 MKII, saw refinements including a redesigned hull and deck joint for enhanced robustness.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catalina 250, with a length overall of 25 feet and a waterline length of 21.25 feet, is primarily regarded as a versatile pocket cruiser suitable for day sailing and casual overnight trips. Owners often praise its all-around versatility and report good performance in moderate wind strengths of 10-15 knots. Its transom-hung rudder contributes to responsive steering and maneuverability.

The availability of multiple keel configurations significantly impacts its handling characteristics. The water ballast model, while offering the convenience of trailering, is generally considered suitable for lighter conditions and is not designed for serious offshore cruising. Some owners of the water ballast model have noted that it may perform less effectively upwind and have added extra ballast forward to correct this. The fin keel and wing keel versions, with their fixed ballast, tend to offer more stability and better upwind performance than their water ballast counterparts. However, even the wing keel version has been noted by some to have challenges going to weather. Overall, the Catalina 250 is designed to be a forgiving and enjoyable boat for its intended use, offering a balanced sailing experience for those seeking accessible adventure.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Catalina 250 offers a surprisingly bright and roomy interior for a boat of its size, designed to provide comfort for overnight stays and weekending. The layout is typically open, maximizing the usable space. Forward, a V-berth provides sleeping accommodations, often separated by a privacy curtain. The main salon usually features settees that can serve as additional berths, accompanied by a small dinette table.

A compact galley area, often to port, includes a sink and space for a portable stove or cooler, reflecting its design as a weekend cruiser rather than a long-distance vessel. Headroom, while not specified in the data, is generally adequate for a boat in this class, and the interior's open design enhances the sense of space. A private head compartment, often with a portable toilet or a curtain for privacy, is typically situated. Owners appreciate the design for its thoughtful use of space, creating a comfortable environment for small crews. The finish quality is consistent with Catalina's reputation for practical and value-driven construction, often featuring teak laminate bulkheads and solid teak trim in later models, contributing to a warmer interior ambiance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina 250 consistently highlight its exceptional versatility and good value for money. Many would buy the boat again, appreciating its balance of affordability, ease of handling, and comfortable accommodations for its size. The strong sense of community among Catalina owners is a significant benefit, with active associations and forums providing a wealth of information and support.

However, some common points of discussion and potential weaknesses have emerged. For the water ballast models, some owners report less-than-ideal upwind performance and have considered or implemented additional fixed ballast to improve this. Another recurring concern across various Catalina models, which may also affect the 250, is the potential for deck delamination due to water intrusion, often originating around deck fittings or the mast. While Catalina is known for solid construction, owners recommend vigilance regarding maintenance to prevent such issues. Despite these potential points, the Catalina 250 is widely regarded as a great starter boat or a reliable platform for day sailing and casual cruising, fulfilling Frank Butler's vision of making sailing accessible and enjoyable.