1990 1990 Catalina 42

Step aboard and you’ll notice how this 42-footer feels bigger than the numbers suggest. The cockpit is deep and secure, with long bench seats that are perfect for watchkeeping or stretching out on a lazy afternoon at anchor. Wide side decks and inboard shrouds make moving forward under way reassuringly simple, even with a reef going in. Under sail, the hull has that familiar, steady Catalina groove—tracking straight and forgiving in a puff, yet responsive enough to keep a helmsman smiling. Below, ventilation is excellent thanks to multiple opening ports and hatches, keeping the boat dry and comfortable during longer stints aboard.

For these waters, the Catalina 42 hits a sweet spot between performance and comfort. Its moderate draft lets you explore tighter anchorages and marinas, while still carrying enough keel to stand up to afternoon sea breezes. The generous sail plan moves the boat well in lighter air, so you’re not relying on the engine on those calmer days, yet it remains manageable for a short-handed crew. The big cockpit and swim-friendly transom make it ideal for warm-weather harbor hopping, while tankage and storage capacity support longer coastal runs or extended weekends on the hook.