I have sailed both boats. There is very little difference. A 30 has a bit more beam which only comes into play when docking. The big jump comes when you move from a 25 to a 30 or a 30 to 35. I would go with the 30 due to better accomidations down bellow. Both boats are fun and easy to sail.

 

I own a C30 and have sailed both. PHRF of So. Cal. rates the C30 at 192 and the C27 at 207. I agree - the big difference is in comfort as both are great boats for coastal cruising. The C30''s extra beam allows for a much roomier feel below.

 

We own a 1972 Catalina 27 and have some good friends who own a 30 foot. Theirs has a bunch more room in the salon and sleeping quarters plus wheel steering where ours has tiller steering. Boats seem to handle about the same although mine seems to be a little quicker on the helm. From a comfort perspective bigger is usually better. On the other hand, ours is paid for even if it is 3 feet shorter!

John Eastin
S/V Solas
Olympia, WA

 

I just closed on my first c30 yesterday. I had a Sunfish dinghy a few decades ago and a little Hobie renting here and there. I single handed the C30 yesterday in 25 Knot winds. I have a lot to learn, but it was pretty easy. The 30 is so much more livable!!! Get the 27 only if you want to trailer yourself.