36 Catalina MkII vs 35' Jeanneau Sun Odyssey

[sab30]

Both 2005 Im a looking at both boats which are going to shake out for around the same price (within $2000) with similar options. Going to test sail both in a couple weeks just wondering peoples opinions on the good and bad and which way they would lean.

Thanks

[Melrna]

I just got back from a week on the Catalina 36.. Love the boat. Saw 8.2 knots beating into the wind. Cabin layout is great. Lots of room and storage.

[sailmed]

One of the factors that led me to Catalina was the very strong owner's association. The web based forums are very useful, and there are many activities all over the country, all the time. They have saved the day many times with advice, parts sourcing, etc. I'm not sure if Jeanneau has as strong a presence in that manner.

[blt2ski]

In the US, Jeanneau will not have as strong a presence as Catilina. But world wide, Jeanneau is a bigger name. There is an owners Jeanneau site based in England, but gets hits from NA quite often. Generally speaking, Jeanneau is a bit higher price point when new than Catalina, altho IMHO, similar in useages length for length with an overall slight advantage to Jeanneau.

If you are still looking at the SO35 vs a 36 cat, the SO will probably out sail a cat. Most Jeanneaus are rated 5-10 secs under PHRF faster for equal lenghts vs Cats.

Yes I own a jeanneau, both are good boots, will serve you well. I like teh Jeanneaus better personally. I still feel for local, ie puget sound sailing, the local 02 SO35 would be the best of the boats you have asked/talked about.

marty