Capri 23.5 (Catalina) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Capri 23.5 emerged in the late 1990s as part of Catalina's performance-oriented Capri series. During this era, Catalina Yachts, guided by Frank Butler's vision, prioritized building "good boats" that were "straightforward, offer price for value, are solid and honest." Their manufacturing ethos emphasized robust construction, typically employing a five-piece method with a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner.

The design of the Capri 23.5 specifically targeted the growing segment of sport boats, aiming for high sailing speed. A distinctive feature that enabled both performance and practical trailering was its innovative water ballast system. This system allowed the boat to maintain sufficient ballast for sailing while remaining light enough for easy transport on a trailer. Further enhancing its performance profile, the rig featured a carbon-fiber mast and a retractable carbon-fiber bowsprit, indicative of its lean towards competitive sailing. Despite its innovative features, the Capri 23.5 had a relatively short production run and was noted by Catalina standards as "not a big seller."

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catalina Capri 23.5 was explicitly designed for exhilarating sailing, characterized by its light displacement and a generous sail plan. With a length overall of 23.5 feet and a waterline of 23 feet, combined with a beam of 8.25 feet, the boat exhibits a sleek profile. Its design, featuring a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, contributes to its nimble and responsive handling. The boat's light displacement makes it lively in various conditions, while its fractional sloop rig provides efficient sail management. The inclusion of a carbon-fiber mast and retractable bowsprit further underscores its performance credentials, allowing for larger, more powerful downwind sails. The Capri 23.5 is particularly well-suited for protected coastal waters and lake sailing, where its speed and responsive nature can be fully appreciated.

Accommodations and Layout

As a "pocket cruiser" focused on performance and trailerability, the Catalina Capri 23.5 offers a compact yet functional interior, primarily designed for weekend trips rather than extended liveaboard cruising. While specific detailed layouts can vary, boats of this size and design typically feature a basic V-berth forward, a small convertible dinette or settee in the main salon area, and often a quarter berth aft. Given its performance orientation and light displacement, ample standing headroom throughout the cabin is generally not a feature. The interior likely emphasizes practicality and efficient use of space, with basic amenities suitable for short stays. Storage is typically modest, focused on essentials for day sailing and overnight trips.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina Capri 23.5 often praise its lively sailing characteristics and the convenience of its trailerable design, which expands its cruising grounds significantly. The innovative water ballast system is frequently highlighted for its dual benefit of enhancing stability while sailing and reducing overall weight for road transport. However, a common issue noted in owner forums and maintenance logs revolves around water intrusion in deck fittings. This suggests that older models may require attention to re-bedding deck hardware to prevent leaks, a typical maintenance item for many production sailboats of its vintage. Despite this, the Capri 23.5 remains appreciated for its ability to deliver an engaging sailing experience in a manageable and versatile package.