[Bluesmoods]

We are looking at buying a new Catalina 42 Mk II or a new 400. The 400 is about the sme price as the 42.

So, what does one do. We are 4 kids and 4 adults most of the time. This would lean me toward the space offered by the 42. I sail often and it''s all coastal cruising. I guess maybe buy as much boat as I can for the same dollar?

I am looking for input here. Which boat is a better performing boat? Which has a history with fewer problems? All that good stuff.

I don''t particularly care for the two helm stations on the 400 but I don''t mind it if it is all around a better boat than the 42.

I do like the interior appointment of the 400. I am coming off of a 350 which has been great, but does not offer the room we need with so many on board all of the time.

The 42 is a lot of boat. We will not get in mast furling on either boat. Is it hard to manage short handed? (or with full crew for that matter?

Thanks....