Water Balllast Catalina 250 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Catalina 250 Water Ballast is characterized by its responsiveness and ease of handling, though it exhibits the typical traits of a lightweight, water-ballasted hull. Because the ballast is located lower in the hull than a traditional keel but lacks the concentrated mass of lead, the boat is notably "tender" in the first 10 to 15 degrees of heel. This initial tenderness is often a point of adjustment for sailors moving up from heavier displacement boats. However, as documented in editorial evaluations by Cruising World, the boat stiffens significantly once the hull's broad sections are immersed.

The sail plan is a fractional rig, which keeps the mainsail manageable and allows for a smaller, easier-to-tack jib. The boat features a fiberglass centerboard that provides a deep draft of nearly 6 feet when fully extended, aiding in upwind tracking and reducing leeway. When the board is retracted, the draft is reduced to a mere 1 foot 8 inches, allowing the 250 to be nosed into beaches or navigated through shallow coastal estuaries. While it is not a racing machine, the 250 is capable of respectable speeds in light-to-moderate air; however, in heavy weather, early reefing is essential to maintain control and comfort.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catalina 250 is where the model truly outshines its competitors in the 25-foot trailerable class. By removing the need for a large keel trunk in the center of the cabin, the water-ballast design opens up a floor plan that feels like a much larger vessel. The layout typically features a large V-berth forward, a central settee with a folding table, and a surprisingly generous double aft berth tucked under the cockpit sole.

A standout feature is the enclosed head, which offers a degree of privacy rarely found in boats of this size. The galley is functional, equipped with a sink, a recessed stove, and a cooler storage area. Material choices reflect the Catalina Yachts commitment to durability, utilizing molded fiberglass liners for structural integrity and easy-to-clean surfaces, accented by teak trim to maintain a traditional nautical aesthetic.

The Catalina 250 was also produced in a Wing Keel variant. Unlike the Water Ballast version, the Wing Keel model features a fixed 3-foot 5-inch draft and a heavy lead keel. The Wing Keel version provides superior stiffness and better performance in a blow but requires a more robust towing vehicle and typically necessitates a crane or a deep-water ramp for launching. Prospective buyers should note that the interior remains largely the same between the two, though the Water Ballast version is significantly more popular for those who prioritize portability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Catalina 250 Water Ballast, the following technical areas require specific attention:

• Ballast Gate Valve & Air Vent: The valve that seals the water ballast tank must be watertight. Inspect the handle and the seal at the transom for signs of corrosion or leakage. Additionally, check the air vent located near the companionway; if this vent is blocked, the tank may not fill or drain properly, affecting stability.
• Centerboard and Pendant: The centerboard is raised and lowered via a stainless steel cable (pendant). These cables are prone to fraying over time. Listen for "thumping" sounds while at anchor, which may indicate worn bushings in the centerboard trunk.
• Rudder Blade Integrity: The 250 uses a kick-up rudder to facilitate trailering. The pivot bolt and the fiberglass housing can experience stress cracks or "slop" if the boat has been sailed hard in heavy weather.
• Deck Compression: Inspect the area around the mast step. Like many production boats of this era, the deck core can suffer from compression or moisture intrusion if the mast plate and wiring conduits haven't been regularly re-bedded.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Catalina 250 benefit from one of the most robust support networks in the sailing world. The Catalina 250 International Association serves as the primary technical resource, offering a wealth of owner-contributed "hacks" for mast-raising systems and interior modifications. Furthermore, because Catalina Yachts remains an active manufacturer, many original parts, including mast-raising kits and specialized hardware, are still available through the factory or authorized dealers.

The Verdict

The Catalina 250 Water Ballast is a masterclass in compromise, successfully balancing the conflicting requirements of highway transport and coastal cruising. It is an ideal vessel for families who wish to explore different bodies of water without the expense of permanent slips.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior Volume: Features an enclosed head and two permanent double berths.
• Easy Trailering: Low dry weight and 8'6" beam make it compatible with common towing vehicles.
• Shallow Draft: Capable of beaching and exploring thin water with the centerboard up.

Cons:

• Initial Tenderness: Requires early reefing and a more active helmsman in gusty conditions.
• Ballast Maintenance: The water tank system adds a layer of complexity (valves/vents) not found on fixed-keel boats.
• Limited Heavy Weather Capability: While safe and stable, it lacks the "point-and-shoot" tracking of its Wing Keel sibling in high winds.