First time boat in SC

rcoll14450 · #1 05-15-2011

Hello All,

I have been a member of Sailnet for some time now. Mainly reading what's going on with others and looking for that first step into sailing.

I grew up on powerboats but I have had a desire to sail for years but financially did not want to make the move for formal classes, especially when I didn't have a boat to practice on. So I found a guy at the local marina in Georgetown, SC and the first thing he told me was to read Colgate’s basic sailing theory. In a couple of weeks my daughter and I went out in Winyah Bay on a rented Hunter 23 (boat was for sale) and had a blast but most of all learned a lot. I also got with a sailing club on a local lake and spent some time on a Sunfish and Hobie cat. The biggest problem with the club was you had to own a boat to join and only members have access to the Sunfish, Dock, and ramp. This makes it very hard.

Well after looking at Craigslist, classifieds, and other forums for over a year for a dingy to learn on. I found a deal on a 1972 Catalina 22 in very good shape. I was looking for something smaller but also wanted something to take the family out on. This was also too good of a deal to pass up. I’m in the process now of transferring the titles and getting her ready to sail. I hope by next Saturday everything will be in order and ready to go.

Is there anything I should be aware of for in this model boat? I have read and talked to people about it and have heard this is a very good starter boat and is very forgiving.

Silvio · #2 05-16-2011

Hello and welcome to Posting on SN!
Enjoy your Catalina 22, it is a very nice model to learn on and big enough to take your family out for a day or even an overnight camping trip at anchor. My wife and I learned on a Catalina 22 and had a wonderful time day sailing Pensacola Bay on one.

CalebD · #3 05-16-2011

It is a good starter model boat for several reasons. For one thing Catalina is still in business and some parts are probably still available for it. Having a trailer sailor reduces marina/club/storage fees and allows more mobility.
On any boat that old (1972) you should carefully check the chain plates and check the deck for soft spots.
Enjoy.

rcoll14450 · #4 05-22-2011

Took the boat out yesterday to the lake. Winds were light be we had some good moments. Boat is in great shape with a few things I have to work on. We had a great time and look forward to the next time out. It did make me realize I have a lot to learn.

smackdaddy · #5 05-22-2011

rcoll - welcome to SN dude. And congrats on your sail yesterday.

Catalinas are great boats.