Any Catalina 34 or 36 owners out there??

[devilfishlane]

Im interested in either one for the Bahamas and possiblely the Caribbean. I'm looking at both, in the early 90's. Is there much difference between them, sailing wise? I think the layout on the 34 suits my tastes better, but the 36 seems very popular.

I would appreciate anyone with either one, to comment on their experiences, positive or negative

Thank you

[BigAssHam]

You might want to post at Catalina Owners.com for owners sailing production sailboats.

[tommyt]

If you do some searches on this site you will find some discussions on exactly your subject.

The boats are very similar but different. Sailing characteristics are same. Cockpit is identical today, and I think as far back as both were built. You need to determine which salon and head placement you like best because as the end of the day that is the real difference. I won a 34 MKII, and love the 36 as well.

Both the 34 and the 36 have very active owners groups with lots of information on them. You could also join the online community and ask your question there.

[erps]

We owned a C-34 for three years and loved it. There is a C-34 owner named Randy on the C34IA website that sailed his in the Bahamas. He has it in the PNW now.

The Catalina 34 International Association

[Cruisingdad]

I would vote 36, but would try to find a way to get the MKII. Simply a perfect boat for that use.

- CD

[Maine Sail]

I owned a 36 and sailed many 34's & 36's before deciding on a 36 due to the way she sailed. While they are similar the 36 tends to drive through the waves and seas where the 34 really tended to bob on and over the tops. I actually prefer the layout of the 34 but like the sailing of the 36 better. If you can sail both in 20-25 knots and you'll see what I mean.

I vote 36 but the 34 has a slightly better owners association though both are excellent. I have also owned an 80's C-30 and a 2005 C-310 and the 36 is the best sailing of all three..!