Catalina 34 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Catalina 34 Mk II emerged from Catalina Yachts, an American builder founded by Frank Butler in 1969 with the goal of constructing "good boats" that offered "price for value, are solid and honest.". The original Catalina 34 debuted in 1985, and its success paved the way for the Mk II iteration in 1996. The Mk II represented a thoughtful refinement of the initial design, retaining the successful underwater profile of the original while introducing a redesigned deck and cockpit with a wider aft section. This update aimed to enhance the boat's livability and cockpit space without altering its fundamental sailing characteristics, allowing it to maintain its one-design racing potential.

Key changes in the Mk II included a revised deck mold, the elimination of dorade vents, a lower traveler, and a redesigned companionway hatch. The exterior also saw the removal of most topside teak and the relocation of the engine control panel to the steering pedestal. Below deck, improvements featured new interior cabinetry, the addition of a hanging locker in the aft cabin, a revised galley counter, and a relocated electrical panel. Catalina Yachts, under Butler's direct influence, primarily designed their cruising lines in-house, ensuring that the boats adhered to their core principles of practicality and durability through methods like a five-piece construction that includes a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 34.5 feet and a waterline length of just under 30 feet, the Catalina 34 Mk II is categorized as a moderately heavy cruiser. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 201 indicates a vessel that offers a comfortable motion in a seaway without sacrificing reasonable performance. The sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at around 16.35, suggests that the Catalina 34 Mk II is a capable performer in average wind conditions, rather than a light-air specialist or a heavy-weather slug. This balance makes it well-suited for a variety of cruising scenarios.

The boat typically features a fin keel, though a shoal draft wing keel option was also available, offering a draft of 4.25 feet compared to the standard 5.58 feet. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.418 for the fin keel version, the Catalina 34 Mk II exhibits good initial stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up to a decent breeze and provide a secure feel under sail. Owners frequently commend the 34 Mk II for sailing well on all points of sail and being a generally pleasant and forgiving boat to handle. It is often described as a very nice cruising boat, offering respectable results even on the racecourse when sailed to its ratings.

Accommodations and Layout

The Catalina 34 Mk II is well-regarded for its spacious interior, designed to maximize comfort and utility for cruising. The interior typically features a traditional layout with a teak finish, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Entering the cabin, a spacious saloon usually offers comfortable seating with a dining area, often to port, and a settee to starboard. The galley is generally positioned along one side, equipped with a stove, oven, refrigeration, and ample counter space, including a revised galley counter with a trash bin in the Mk II.

Forward, there is typically a V-berth cabin, providing a private sleeping area. Aft, a spacious aft cabin offers a double berth, often with the addition of a hanging locker in the Mk II version. The boat usually includes a single wet head with a marine toilet, sink, and shower, which received a new mold in the Mk II for better drainage and easier cleanup. Overall, owners praise the roominess of the Catalina 34 Mk II, finding it comfortable for two people and accommodating for additional guests. The interior cabinetry in the Mk II featured louvered teak fronts, contributing to its refined aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina 34 Mk II consistently praise its spaciousness and suitability as a comfortable cruising boat. Many highlight its solid construction and general ease of handling, noting that it sails well across various points of sail. The boat is often considered to offer good value and is frequently seen as a reliable choice for those looking for a well-built production cruiser.

While generally well-regarded, some common points of discussion among owners of Catalina yachts, including the 34 Mk II, occasionally include issues like potential deck failures from water ingress if original fittings are not properly maintained, or concerns about mast compression fatigue. Some owners have also noted the engine, while reliable, can be loud and vibrate the cabin. However, these are often manageable with routine maintenance and surveying a boat before purchase can identify any specific issues. The strong community of Catalina owners, supported by resources like Mainsheet Magazine and owner associations, further enhances the ownership experience, providing a network for support and shared knowledge.