Capri 30 (Catalina) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Catalina Capri 30 began in 1982, continuing through the late 1990s. Designer Frank Butler's philosophy, deeply embedded in Catalina Yachts' ethos, aimed to produce "good boats" that were "straightforward, offer price for value, are solid and honest." While Catalina is widely known for its practical cruisers, the Capri series, including the 30, represented a deliberate foray into the performance segment. The Capri 30's hull design is notably lighter and narrower compared to its cruising counterparts, a direct reflection of its performance aspirations. During this era, Catalina Yachts, which expanded significantly in the 1980s, maintained its robust five-piece construction method, incorporating a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner to ensure durability and a common-sense approach to boat building. While the broader Catalina 30 model saw various iterations like the MkII and MkIII, the Capri 30 maintained its specific identity as a performance model with a deep fin keel and spade rudder, features indicative of its intended responsive handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catalina Capri 30's design ratios underscore its performance leanings. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 25.56, the Capri 30 is well-equipped for excellent performance in lighter air conditions, suggesting a boat that will be lively and responsive even in moderate breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.461 indicates substantial stability and stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a good amount of wind and maintain its sail plan effectively. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 157.8 places it firmly in the category of lighter, more performance-oriented vessels.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Capri 30 for its responsive handling and strong upwind ability, making it a capable club-level PHRF racer. The combination of a fin keel and spade rudder contributes significantly to its agility and control. While generally considered a "racing boat, limited cruising," it handles well and sails nicely in various conditions, although some owners might caution against taking it too far offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Catalina Capri 30 offers a practical and functional interior described as "spartan but usable." While not designed for luxurious long-distance cruising, the layout typically includes essential amenities for overnight or weekend trips. Common arrangements feature a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon area, a galley, and quarter berths. The focus on performance meant that interior volume and lavish finishes were secondary to sailing dynamics, resulting in a functional rather than opulent living space. Specific details on maximum headroom are not available in the provided data or general search results, but the overall design prioritizes sailing efficiency and ease of maintenance over expansive living quarters.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina Capri 30 generally appreciate its attributes as a capable and budget-friendly performance sailboat. The responsive handling and ability to point well are frequently cited strengths, making it a popular choice for club racing and dynamic day sailing.

However, common issues noted by owners, particularly on older models, include the potential for moisture intrusion in the deck core. While this is a recurring problem in many older fiberglass boats, it is specifically mentioned as a known concern for the Capri 30, requiring careful inspection and potential remediation by prospective buyers or current owners. Other general maintenance considerations common to older Catalina models, such as potential for issues with mast stays, mast compression, or keel attachment, are always aspects to consider when evaluating a vintage vessel. Despite these potential maintenance points, the Capri 30 generally offers a great value for those seeking a spirited sailboat.