The Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 vs Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkII - Tall Rig Tall rig 1996 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 at 34,6 ft versus Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkII - Tall Rig Tall rig 1996 at 35,8 ft. At 11 934 lbs and 11 949 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 carries a rated maximum of 30 hp. Engine data for the Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkII - Tall Rig Tall rig 1996 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.
Both boats are rated for 10 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 11 934 lbs for the Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 and 11 949 lbs for the Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkII - Tall Rig Tall rig 1996. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.
Both boats draw a similar depth — 5,7 ft and 5,7 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
The Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 uses Sloop rigging. The Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 has a documented auxiliary engine of 30 hp.
Hull speed is rated at 7,3 knots for the Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkII - Tall Rig Tall rig 1996 and 7,3 knots for the Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985.
Bottom line: The Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkI - Tall Rig Tall Rig 1985 and Catalina Yachts Catalina 34 MkII - Tall Rig Tall rig 1996 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.