Lady K Sailingvideo
Best 30ft Sailboat to Buy? Catalina 30 Walkthrough & Review - Ep 349 - Lady K Sailing
September 29, 2025 · 9 min · 60K views
What this video covers
The Catalina 30, produced by Catalina Yachts from 1974 to 2008, remains a benchmark for 30-foot sailboats due to its extensive production run of over 6,400 units, robust owner community, and parts availability.1:31 The design features a 29-foot-11-inch length overall, a 10-foot-10-inch beam, and three keel options: a 5-foot-3-inch standard, 4-foot-4-inch shoal, and 3-foot-10-inch wing.2:26 Displacement is 10,200 pounds with 4,200 pounds of ballast.2:48 While the hull is solid fiberglass, decks are cored with balsa or plywood.3:15 Prospective buyers should prioritize inspecting for deck core water intrusion, particularly around chainplates and stanchions, and evaluate the keel-to-hull joint for the "Catalina Smile," a common deformation where filler separates from the seam.6:03 While original models featured the Atomic 4 gas engine, many have been repowered with Beta Marine diesels.2:54 Prices typically range from $10,000 to $25,000 depending on condition and equipment.7:41
Boats in this video
More from Lady K Sailing
From Lady K Sailing — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.