Catalina 28 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Catalina 28 Mk II is characterized by its predictable, forgiving nature on the water. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 161 and a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of roughly 16.7, the boat sits firmly in the category of a "spirited coastal cruiser." It is not a light-air racer, but it is efficient enough to move well in a moderate breeze. The masthead sloop rig is easily managed from the cockpit, often equipped with a furling headsail and all lines led aft to the coachroof.

Handling is influenced significantly by the choice of keel. The Mk II was offered with either a deep fin keel for better upwind tracking or a wing keel for those navigating thin water, particularly in regions like the Chesapeake Bay or the Florida Keys. According to technical insights from the Catalina 28 International Association, the boat is notably stable due to its generous 10' 4" beam, though it can become "tender" if over-canvassed in heavy gusts. Sailors often recommend reefing the mainsail early (at around 15-18 knots of apparent wind) to keep the boat flat and maintain rudder authority. The inclusion of a large-diameter destroyer wheel in the T-shaped cockpit provides excellent leverage and feel, a significant upgrade over the tiller steering found on many smaller competitors of that era.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 28 Mk II is widely regarded as one of the most voluminous for its class. By pushing the beam well aft, Catalina was able to incorporate an athwartships double berth under the cockpit, providing a dedicated "master" cabin that is physically separated from the main salon. The forward V-berth is suitable for children or guests, while the central salon features a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard.

The galley is surprisingly functional for a 28-foot vessel, typically featuring a two-burner stove, a deep sink, and a well-insulated icebox. Headroom is a standout feature, reaching approximately 6' 2" in the main cabin, which eliminates the "crouch" often required on boats under 30 feet. The use of lighter ash or teak trim (depending on the production year) combined with numerous opening ports and a large overhead hatch keeps the interior bright and well-ventilated. While the original Mk I model shared much of this layout, the Mk II refined the upholstery and storage configurations to feel more integrated.

A notable sibling in the Catalina lineup is the Catalina 270, which was produced concurrently. While similar in length, the 270 focused more on "daysailing with style," whereas the 28 Mk II was built as a dedicated cruiser with more substantial tankage and a heavier displacement to handle offshore chop more comfortably.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Catalina 28 Mk II with a focus on several common maintenance areas typical of the brand’s construction methods during the 1990s:

• The "Catalina Smile": This refers to a vertical crack that can appear at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often a cosmetic issue in the sealant, it can indicate the need for re-torquing keel bolts or addressing minor compression in the fiberglass stub.
• Compression Post/Deck Sag: Check the area around the mast step for any depression or "pooling" of water. If the wooden block inside the deck or the support post has been compromised by moisture, it can lead to structural sag.
• Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder can develop "play" or vibration over time. Inspect the bushings and the steering quadrant for wear, especially on boats that have spent significant time in high-surge moorings.
• Portlight Leaks: The Lewmar ports used on many Mk II models are prone to gasket failure. Evidence of water tracking down the interior cabinetry is a sign that the ports need re-bedding or new seals.

Community & Resources

The model is supported by a robust network of owners, primarily through the Catalina 28 International Association. This group maintains a technical library covering everything from engine maintenance for the Universal M2-12 or M-320 diesel engines to rigging diagrams. Because Catalina remains in operation and many parts are standardized, owners can still source model-specific hardware and canvas through Catalina Direct, an independent parts supplier that specializes in the marque.

The Verdict

The Catalina 28 Mk II remains a premier choice for sailors graduating from dinghies to cruisers or for those downsizing from larger, more complex yachts. It offers "big boat" systems—inboard diesel, pressurized hot water, and a private aft cabin—in a package that is exceptionally easy to dock and maintain.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its length.
• The walk-through transom makes swimming and dinghy boarding effortless.
• Strong resale value and an active, helpful owner community.
• Manageable sail plan for single-handed or couple cruising.

Cons:

• The wing keel version sacrifices some upwind performance and "pointing" ability.
• Light-duty deck hardware may require upgrading for serious heavy-weather sailing.
• The large beam can lead to a "slappy" ride in short, steep head-seas.