I just purchased a 2005 Catalina 34 and spent my first day and night (new years eve) on the boat. Unfortunately what I thought would be a great adventure turned out to be an uncomfortable stay. Now I am having second thoughts and need your help.
First, thing I noticed when I brought my groceries in was that there was no real storage in the Ice Box to store anything of substance. I looked at a Catalina 32 and it had 3 ice boxes !. I though, my boat is bigger it should have more storage.
The next thing was the dinette table. I am not large, but I could barley squeeze in-between the tabletop and the cushions. When it was bed time the frustration continued when I tried to convert the dinette table into a bed. I had to remove all the cushions from the settee (what a pain) to put the table down and that was only after I had to manhandle the table out of its base to remove the center pole that was rusted into its base. Surely their must be a better solution for this.
Once I had the dinette bed set up I moved towards the ¼ birth. The headroom was so low in there that there was barely enough room for my 5 year old. I am only 5-9 and I can not even put my knees up without hitting the ceiling. Again, not to harp on the 32, but the ¼ birth in the 32 seemed like the penthouse suite compared to the ¼ birth on the 34, and my previous boat a Catalina 28 also had more room. Now I have to admit, I did notice this before I purchased the boat but it did not really hit me till I spent the night on the boat.
And last but not least the v-birth. First, has anyone had issues with the mattress insert in the front of the V-birth falling to the floor? This happened to me a few time during the night. Another thing I noticed was that I was unable that unlike my Old Catalina 30 or my previous boat a Catalina 28, I was unable to sit up in the V-Birth and read with my back to the wall.
So... Having said all that, I know I have not actually sailed my boat with the exception of the Sea Trial, but on-board comfort is important too. I just sold my Kidney's to purchase this boat, and what I would like to ask you fine Catalina 34 Owners is... What are some of the good points this fine boat that I may have not noticed in my day on the boat that puts this boat as a better choice over a Catalina 32 or 36.
Many Thanks
Peter
Welcome to our website, and to you and your C34.
As you work your way around the website, you'll find lots of answers to questions you've raised, as well as ones you have yet to think up.
The aft cabin (1/4 berth?) you mentioned has always had admirers and detractors. Many have bought the boat because of that aft cabin (we did) and learn to live with the head knocker entryway. Some people call it the "garage" and you can use the search engine to find more posts that way. We eventually moved up to the (world's biggest) V berth. The question about the insert has been raised a number of times, with varying approaches. Try this: http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,1268.0.html and http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,4340.0.html
Storage in the ice box: I am not familiar with the other boats you mentioned and their coolers. Folks have taken extended cruises with these boats, and we've done long trips with ours. Maybe it's minimalism, but gosh, how much could you need for weekend? :shock: Just kidding. Many of us have augmented the galley storage issue by placing shelving in the nav station hanging locker. See: http://www.c34.org/projects/kindred-spirit/shelves.html
Dinette table: We've used the dinette for sleeping maybe twice, plus a few other times with guests. Our table works fine, and our Mark I cushions are easier to move than the hard bottomed Mark II cushions. You might learn from this: http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,4384.0.html
Sorry you had what seemed to be a negative first experience. You're right about going sailing though! :D
Why did we buy the boat? See: http://www.c34.org/faq-pages/faq-c34-owners-review.html
Nice to see you here, and we look forward to pointing you in the right direction in answer to any questions you might and will have.
You may also be interested in THE GUIDE to the C34 Website, right on the message board (http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,2629.0.html). It will give you some background of what's happening here, and what's available to you.
As for comparisons, it may not be worth going there, but I'll try: I personally feel that the interior saloon layout of the 32 is backwards compared to the C34: think about it -- the head wall on the same side of the dinette seating makes the saloon look much smaller visually, it's like a Beneteau layout. The C36? Great boats, just like ours, almost the same, but a completely different approach to interior layout, plus a forward head. I have lotsa friends with C36s and we exchange much information because the systems on both our boats are the same. I just like the midships head location.
Sounds like you have found all the major issues...
All are correctable with information here on the site. Well, almost all... I have never sailed the 32. I did have a Catalina 30 before and although I thought she was a great boat, the C34 sails better and has more room. I think you need to spend some time sailing before you start regretting your decision.
I've added storage space and shelves. A smaller dinning table cuz I'm a big guy and didn't fit with the old one. I take an ice chest for beer if I'm taking lots of food. Velcro will solve the v-berth insert issue. Let the kids stay in the aft cabin. And I've learned to drink my rum neat....
Or see if Catalina will let you swap for a 32...
Good luck,
Rick
Peter:
Did you sell both kidneys? A few owners have made that mistake. The dialysis supplies take up all the room in the ice box. You were supposed to sell one of yours and one of your wife's.
It sounds like you have a problem boat. I've got a nice clean 1988. V-berth slot stays in. Table goes up and down smoothly. We can do a straight trade. You'll be more comfortable.
Steve
Peter, I'm sorry the experience has been less than desirable for you. I think you'll have to discover the fine points of the boat on your own, because I'm sure they're rather personal; what works for me won't for you. For instance, while I don't think the galley has a ton of storage space, it's not a problem for me because we never sail for more than five or six days and always visit places where we eat in town when we do cruise. So our food storage requirements aren't that great. I use the starboard locker (you have two; I only have on large one on my Mk I) over the saloon settee for additional dry storage.
Do a search on the dinette table pedestal, and you'll find some good guidance on that problem. Whatever you do, don't use any lubricant on it. Counter-intuitively, the use of lubricant will ruin the pedestal action. In fact, I suspect your PO didn't know that and used some on yours. I agree with you about the dimensions of the table. Many of us have fashioned new ones that are smaller. Again, there are good project articles that describe how. (Download the "knowledgebase" to do a convenient search.) Also, you've joined the C34 IA, right? You should be getting a CD with back Tech Notes, and I'm sure the table project is readily found there as well.
I suspect that I'm a bit larger than you (3" in height, but probably quite a bit more in girth as well), but I happen to like the snugness of our interior. I'm not sure if I ever thought to read by sitting against the wall in the v-berth (sounds like I can't), but we tend to go there to sleep (or other adult activities) rather than read. Again, different strokes for different folks. I also tend to think of the aft berth (it's a lot bigger than another boat's "quarter" berth) as a bit of a miracle. I think the original C34s actually didn't have the full berth, but some ingenious owners fashioned the space out, and CY picked up on the idea. (I could be making this up; perhaps it evolved on the C36 first, and then was adapted to the C34.) To me, it's a little cubby hole of a sleeping closet. I don't expect it to be much roomier than a casket. If you turn into a vampire, you're going to love it!
But since you asked, I will tell you that, for me, the finer points of the C34 are very much about how she sails. I love sitting on the lee coaming and watching the wake (on moderate breeze days of course). I love the cockpit in general; in fact, aside from how well she sails, I think it's the most comfortable cockpit of just about any boat around. And she has pretty lines. And her mechanical systems are, for the most part, pretty well thought out and relatively easy to service. I keep looking for reasons to get a different boat, but I can't find any. I go to boat shows, and I don't think there's another boat that compares, although I happen to also like the C36 and the C42. But ours is the perfect size for me. And while I'd like a Morris or Hinkley daysailer as a "second car in the garage," I'm still in love with my C34. Like my wife, I love her (the boat and my wife) more everyday. You might just find the same thing happens to you. And when you whisk past the competition (unknowing or otherwise), you'll wear a C34 smile on your face that won't go away.
BTW, there's an excellent first and second year summary of the ownership experience by Steve Lyle. Do a search for "weblog." It's well worth reading, though you have a much new boat than Steve's, so you won't have as much to fix (but it might make you appreciate yours more <wink>).
Jon, Waterdog, Rick, and Stu, I have to say that you hart felt and knowledgeable responses have made my day. I now feel that I am not alone in this quest and feel honored that you have graciously accepted me into your Catalina 34 sailing community. I will diligently look at all of your recommendations.
I love Catalina's and owned a 30 for 12 years and have had my 28 for 3 ½ Years. I do not think I have had enough time to bond with my new boat as is still at another harbor port as I just sold my Catalina 28 last weekend and are waiting to have that boat moved to its new owner before I can move my new boat to my slip. The word is not out yet on weather my new boat will fit in my slip as it's officially a bit big for the marina's hang over policy.
Looking forward to many more online engagements with you all.
Peter
I will only respond on two items, one of which has been covered.
Guess I better tery again.
1. Already covered, I think you will end up loving the boat.
2. That v-birth insert can be a very dangerous item. I had bruises to prove it the first time I used it. The support boards on both sides needed to be larger on mine. Took off the originals and put on 2x2's stained to match the interior. That allows the board on the insert to be held in place as it was designed (poorly) to do.Stays in just fine now no matter the conditions.
Welcome Peter to the world of the 34. As others have commented on the specifics, I will not opine other than philosophically and practically. Practically, I often wear a bike helmet when rooting around in the aft cabin. Philosophically, view this as the "adjustment period" like in a marriage (although it shouldn't take as long)
Good luck,
Ken
Peter, simply use velcro strips with peel away adhesive backing to hold your v-birth insert in place purchased at a local hardware. You will have to use staples to hold the velcro on the insert itself, but the adhesive backing will hold to the wood well on the structural part. As for the table, many people probably would not go this route, but my wife and I removed our table completely and fixed an inspection plate to it for easy reinstall in the future. For us, this really opened up the interior space. You can just plop down anywhere in the dinette without having to scoot in, and whe its time for another beer you just jump right up. Of course we really dont eat sit down meals in our boat and if we do we can just use trays.
Peter, for the table, some owners on the Markll have added a teak block between the pedestal and the table, keeping the table the same size but raising it a bit. This makes it easier to get in and out. As far as dropping it, I don't bother taking cushions out (we don't use it that much for sleeping, just when grandkids are aboard) I simply loosen the clamp, plop my big behind in the center of the table and do al little wiggling. It slides past the cushions OK. Back up just takes some table wiggling for me. I found it gets easier as you use it.
Re the refer, it takes a bit of planning, but I use all three levels and have been out for as long as 3 weeks with no problems and we stay on the hook most of the time. Just load the things you use last on the bottom and work your way up. As you use it you work your way dow. For cold drinks I keep a cooler that just fits in the stern opening walkway (Costco) and fits tight against the ladder. Sticks out less than the seat depth. That also eliminates getting in the refer and saves on your energy bill.
We love our 34 and would not trade for anything we have seen out there. And sailing, the boat is so balanced that in a steady wind I can leave the wheel unlocked and she will sail herself. I do not have the luxury of an autopilot.
Fair winds and calm seas as you learn the joys of your new mistress.
jack
Peter,
You'll find the C34 as a very well designed sailing machine. I agree, storage is not the best. Nowadays, boats are equipped with side loading refrigerators. The C34 is of the old design. Actually, side loaders don't keep the cold in as well. A couple hints to your issues. You say you had to squeeze your knees between the dinette table and cushions. Well, I am aware that when these boats are delivered, the dealer puts a 2-3" teak doughnut ring mounted between the pedestal and floor. Apparently they miscalculated the table height clearance. Mine has this from the start. Maybe the original dealer that delivered the boat did not do this and the PO never noticed the problem.
V-berth removable cushion. There should be a teak strip of wood on the forward bottom edge that locks into the molded fiberglass. That keeps the cushion in place. We sleep in the v-berth because it's more open and airy. Plus you get air at anchor with the hatch open.
Aft cabin...yes, I've hit my head many times going in and it really hurts! I've thought about sticking a closed cell foam protector there but never got around to do it.
I feel the comprimises on the things you mention are far outweighed with the impeccable sailing characteristics.
Hope this helps.
Peter,
Some additional links for you:
Icebox Management: http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,2991.0.html (http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,2991.0.html)
Table pedestal info: http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,2618.0.html (http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,2618.0.html)
Also, as I've noted in earlier posts, the newer boats have DIFFERENT saloon seat cushions. The Mark I's have light cushions backed with vinyl. The openings to the storage lockers below have the thin particle board covers. It's pretty easy to simply flip up the cushions to lower the table.
The Mark II's have the particle board attached to the bottom of the cushions which makes them way heavier and quite, to my mind, cumbersome to move. That's probably why many have found it a chore to move the cushions to get the table down. Until I actually got on a Mark II and saw the "new" arrangement, I didn't understand the issue.
I agree with Roc about the head knocker - just a few weeks ago a guest kept hitting his head, and I reminded myself about that idea someone had: buy a big pool noodle and cut it and mount it on the edge.
Peter,
I agree with the comments the others have made. I've sailed larger Beneteaus in Thailand, Greece, BVI etc....sure its nice to have more storage and room but one always has to plan your fridge/ice box storage on any boat if out longer than 3 or 4 days.
The Catalina 34 has the best of all worlds in terms of manageable size, sailing, comfort and cruising for a few weeks (with the odd stop to re-provision).
Sounds to me like you need to see the back end of your 28 move out so as to suitably "bond" with your new 34.
Tom
Peter
As you come down the steps into your 34 stop & look around. Look at the open space. It's like a big family room. I haven't found anything like this in a boat this size. My wife & I really like the space. Take out the table & you really have a family room. Make a smaller table if you want to sit there to eat. Store the big table, pull it out for sleeping. A mod here & there & the boat is yours, the way you like it.
My wife likes to read at the table so the table holds the book. The v-berth is for two things, & reading isn't on the list. If you must read, pack some pillows in the corner under the light. Take your time & get to know your 34. You will enjoy it more each year.
Here's a fine TO DO List from Steve: see reply #7
http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,4615.msg27213.html#msg27213
Peter,
Melinda and I sleep in he aft berth. I am 6'1" and 211 lbs so not such a little feller. The first year we suffered sore backs and purchased a queen sized memory foam mattress at WalMart for under $100.00. It is now very comfortable. As for the two things that Capt. Spicer says they do in the V bert? Well, we accomplish them just fine in the aft berth, thank you very much!
We like the table in the salon. Mel likes to read at the table and I like it better than the desk at the nav station when working on paperwork.
Everybody has the same issues with the ice box. In our experience I think you will find a "method" for using yours that works for you.
Remember that you got the boat because you love the water, sailing, peace and serenity that comes from being away from work and other hassles. These things you mention aren't problems, but merely eccentricities of a new woman in your life that you have to adjust to.
Mark Mueller
Blue Moon #815
I do not understand why there is no reference to this anywhere else on the site.
I am not sure why it is such a big secret.
But I'm going to go ahead and disclose the truth and forever enhance the value of the C34 in the global market place.
The C34 was designed for good sex.
I am not going to be vulgar and share the details of the ergonomics of bunk heights and foot bracing and what not. Each owner, I'm sure, eventually discovers it for themselves. The only real shortcoming was in the space behind the wheel on the cockpit of the MKI, but it looks like that was addressed in the MKII.
So there. The truth is out there now.
One more reason to buy a fine sailing machine.
Great bunch of comments about the C34 Mk II I agree with them all. Regarding the "reading" in the V-berth ... Being a vivid night reader this is where I do my serious reading and I simply prop some pillows in the corner of the berth and sit up very nicely. The real problem comes with the light that GLARES in my eyes and also true for the Admiral on the port side.
Our solution has been to wear a visor or billed cap. I've mentioned this to Gerry Douglas and he admitted that light wasn't optimum for reading but offered no solution.
We advanced to the 34 from 18 years with a Cat30 and it took some adjustment .... about one long sail :clap Our table has been used for a berth about 5 times and is is a slight pain to remove the cushions to get it down but what can you do when you have 7 sleeping aboard after an overnight race?
We sail with others owning a Cat36 and area ble to keep up or beat them and my slip fees are sooooo much better. our marina allows 5' of overhang in a 30' slip so no slip availability problems. Love our True Luff and am sure you will too.
I just built a new table to replace the oversized one. Makes a world of difference.
Mike,
That is one sweet looking table...what did you use for materials?
Peter,
Comparing the C320 with the C34, back in 2000 when I looked at both boats, going down the companionway stairs made a big difference. On the C320, the steps are not positioned properly (apparently, to save room, the step 'run' is compressed and makes it difficult to manuever them). On the C34, the steps are wide and positioned properly, making them easier and safer to climb. The other bone I had to pick with the C320 is the tie rods clocked you in the head when sitting at the dinette table. The 34 has no such issue. I did notice on the 'redesigned 320', the chain plate tie rods are set back more.
Overall there are many pros and cons everyone can come up with. Sometimes I shake my head at why did they design something that way on our boats. But the main use for the 34 is that it is a sailboat, and sailing is what she does best!
Those that want more home-like comfort, should buy a Hunter, and enjoy a floating summer home.
I suggest you name the vessel " KWITYERBITCHIN' "
Boats are probably the most expensive things most people buy next to their residence. Due diligence is the normal procedure.
I'd contact the marina and see if you can moor your 34 in your present slip. Good luck!
Up in this part of the country, you line up moorage first, and then buy your boat!
I read this and other Catalina forums long before we bought ours new in 2004.
You actually have the perfect boat - you just have to change and adapt to it!
I too had smaller Catalina's before stumbling into our 1988 C-34 by accident. We were actually looking for a 36 or larger. However, it was love at first sight.
I'm 6'1" and 270 in me swim suit. The aft cabin is awesome to us and one of the features we love. Yes, it is a bit of a game of twister to get in and out of; but, once you're there....... It is an ideal place to stack the pillows up and read with your back against the hull liner. You have two swivel lamps that will light your book rather well. We have one of our dogs, a Jack Russell, sleep with us too. Yes, I too use that space for "Other" things quite easily!!!!! But, the nice thing is, in cooler weather, a down cushion topper and comforter keep us plenty warm. So warm in fact that I have to take my Gill base layer off. That usually leads to the "other" thing....
We also made a smaller "coffee" table. The big one is still stored forward in the V-berth so that we can add more sleeping room or when we want to just lounge around and watch the flatscreen TV on the bulkhead wall.
Our V-bert insert already had the velcro mod and works great.
Is Kitty's Cat puuuuurfect? No, but we are working toward improving the small issues we have. That's also part of the fun of owning a boat ... doing those little things to creat that unique fit between you and the boat.
Cheers!
Here is a photo of the TV and table
Peter,
About your dinette table. Most of the folks I have heard from on this board talk about a table with a spring loaded center post that you must wrestle with and compress until your face turns blue to lower the table to use as a bed. However, mine is different and I don't know if it came that way or a previous owner converted it. Mine basically has a fixed or solid post that I just loosen a retaining nut on the bottom of the table, lift the table off the post, pull the post out of the floor socket and then lay the table in the slots provided. I haven't had to take off the cushions and the post just stores under the table. It's sort of like the tables that are in campers or motor homes.
Does anyone else have my type?
By the way, which Peter are you? The pumpkin eater or the that robbed to pay Paul :D
Welcome to the group!
Mike
I had the table with the Ridged rod in it. Must be the same kind you have. On New years when I spent my first night, the rod was rusted and would not come out. It was 11:30 PM new years and I am running around the dock looking for someone to lend me a pair of heavy duty channel locks. I should have been looking for beers. With that and a socket wrench I was finally able to get the rod out and lower the table.
Even with all that it still took a few people to jiggle and wiggle the table just to get it out and in. I looked online and saw some fancy stainless telescoping gas filled pedestals but they were all from Europe. I am sure they cost a bunch. The pictures you all sent of your tables are great and will give me some ideas for mine.
Not to bitch again about the Ice Boxes, but I just don't get it. The 309 the 310, the 320 have at least two, some three and some even have an additional upright fridge. The 36 also has ample boxes. I keep having this dream that there was another Icebox and I just did not see it. Guess I better go back to bed.
So... Tomorrow they take my 28 away and thus open the door for me to move my new boat in. I still am not sure what the LOA is as I keep seeing different numbers on different websites. So the fun will continue.
Thanks again for all your help
Peter
Peter - Depending on your anchor, assuming the longer bow roller on the MKII, I'd say your LOA is 35'7"
Craig
Michael,
Thank you for the complement on the table.
The table is 1/2" teak plywood and the trim is made of mahogany. Used cetol gloss top coat for the finish. Here is another pic with the old table underneath to give an approximate size.
Quote from: ellispe on January 07, 2009, 05:39:49 PM
Not to bitch again about the Ice Boxes, but I just don't get it. The 309 the 310, the 320 have at least two, some three and some even have an additional upright fridge. The 36 also has ample boxes. I keep having this dream that there was another Icebox and I just did not see it. Guess I better go back to bed.
Peter, you seem pretty focused on the fridge. If you're simply wondering why CY hasn't adopted a more contemporary galley configuration, the answer is that the C34 was designed in 1982-83, and then it was marginally enhanced (IMO) in the Mk II in 1994. IOW, it's an old (I would say classic) design. You're comparing it to much more contemporary designs. I also think you're confusing refrigerated space with dry storage. The 309 (and I believe the 320) have fairly spacious front loading "dorm-like" fridges that require you to bend over to reach in and find stuff. That stuff is also very likely to fall out if you try to open the fridge while sailing on a heel. That's why the C34 continues to be a
SAILboat. There is a smallish built-in, top-loading dry storage locker embedded into the countertop on the 309/320, but it is not refrigerated (I think this is what you are thinking is the second refrigerator). Personally, I think this is the worst of both worlds: a refrigerator that spills cold air out when you open it along with its contents, and a top-loading, prone-to-clutter bin with a heavy-to-remove top. But that's just me. I'm not suggesting that our dated fridge is ideal; it just works for me. That said, I have no doubt that if people really prefer the 309/320 galley configuration, CY will eventually propagate it throughout their line. They're very Darwinian that way; what works survives.
Separately, if you're pissed that the C34 doesn't have the same fridge and dry storage as the 309 and 320, I wonder why you're saying that now after the purchase. After all, it's not like anybody could hide that fact from you, right? Did you not look at it (or any other C34) before you bought it? BTW, did you consider the C350 when you were looking?
Hi, Peter,
The GOOD news is that if it's only the fridge, then ya got it made! Actually, it sounds like fridge and storage. Jon's right about the date of the design, but it sure has kept solid and functional through the years. One of the basic things that most people brought up when they first bought the boat was EXACTLY the issue you are describing. This goes way back to the 1987 Mainsheet Tech Notes. Sounds like you know what you're talking about.
That said, spend some time perusing the website and search on storage. Most of us, having determined that this is what we have, have been very creative in "making space." The shelves in the hanging locker (previously linked) are but one of many examples of how previous C34 owners have dealt with the issue.
The Mark II is different than the Mark II, so I can't contribute much more in detail because our drawers and sliding door shelves are completely different. We have the sliding black doors in the saloon, which hide, believe you me, lotsa stuff. We find everything is pretty much at hand once you figure out where you like to put things. The answer is the fridge is the fridge, and the boat does not have any more of those kind of unrefrigerated spaces. In fact, the Alder Barbour was an option on the early boats and many used, gulp, real ICE.
And Jon's point about it being good for sailing AND for cooling without having stuff come out when sailing is well taken. I reviewed the new C375 and there was a good discussion about their new fridge and storage arrangement. Here's the link: http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,4232.0.html
Quote from: Jon Schneider on January 07, 2009, 07:25:39 PM
Peter, you seem pretty focused on the fridge. If you're simply wondering why CY hasn't adopted a more contemporary galley configuration, the answer is that the C34 was designed in 1982-83, and then it was marginally enhanced (IMO) in the Mk II in 1994. IOW, it's an old (I would say classic) design.
Jon,
I have to say the lines of the boat were hard to resist. She is so sexy from the outside that I just had to own one. I guess my hangups on the fridge are due to my love of hanging out for long weekends with friends at Catalina Island in California. We eat and drink a lot. I think the Ice Chest for the drinks will have to suffice and as I mentioned, I should actuallly leave the dock and head to the Island for a weekend to see how the food storage and refrideration works out. I guess if I really feel that I need more space I could swap out the Oven for a frontloading fridge.
PS that Table looks HOT !. Thats going to be my first project.
Quote from: ellispe on January 07, 2009, 09:29:09 PM
I have to say the lines of the boat were hard to resist. She is so sexy from the outside that I just had to own one.
Well, there you go... you started this thread wondering what was good about the C34 versus the C320 and the C36, and you've already discovered your own answer. Keep thinking about it and you'll find other answers as well. And be sure to test out Waterdog's dirty little secret. The rest of us are pissed that he let that secret out, because it's going to be hard to make it down the dock once it's known that you own a C34 ;)
So sorry it took me so long to get the message. Here's the link to another fridge for you: http://www.c34.org/projects/projects-refrigeration-2.html
I'll resist asking [again]about how much you need for a weekend. When does the party start? :D
Mike,
Thanks for posting the second pic...hope that thing isn't patent protected...plagiarizing is not beneath me. Surely the folks on the Chesapeake could never trace the design back to Louisiana?
:think
I agree with Jon in regards of our top loading fridge. As we all know cold air goes down...so with a front loading unit guess what happen when you do open the door....yes all the cold drops to the floor along with the beerssss and some food. Some Hunters models have there fridge mounted on either port or starboard side so you better open the door when your healing on the "good" side.
Since our units depends mainly on our batteries bank...it does take lots of juice to replenish that lost cold !!!
We go on 3wks trips and my "cook" manage it pretty well by preparing and freezing before our departure and then load the bottom of the fridge with the most lasting/frozen items and built up. We also use a portable ice box with ice for the first few days to contain food that has to be use first.
We don't have any solar panels/wind generator but do have a Honda 2000 that I may use for a max of 3hrs. per trip (3wks) and we anchor most of the time so I must say that our fridge does the job. The batteries recharge very fast when we do motor so that takes care of the bank.
As far of storage...well lets say that no matter where you are...space is always..to an extent a problem. Move from a house to a condo and you'll see!! We use the shelf in the V bert for our clothing, the cabinets on the starboard side for dry food and the one on the port side for CD, dvd, etc. Behind the cushions all pop cans, beer, water btle and wine.
It all boils down to how much you need to bring along for you trip.
I always told my wife that if she needs all that she's got at home to go boating....well we'll stay home.
I'm sure that you've noticed before at the airport some group going on the same vacation spot...some with 3/4 big pieces of luggage and some with 1 or 2 small bags!!!
I'm sure that if you really like sailling you'll not only like but you'll love your boat and you'll forget the rest 'cause you'll change what you can and accept the rest.
Good wind and Happy sailling
Welcome to our group
And, Peter (and all who haven't already), don't forget to join the C34 International Association in order to support this "free" (to you, not to the Association) site and receive Mainsheet magazine. At $25/year ($45 for two years), the ideas you'll get may even save you enough to buy back one of your kidneys ;)
Quote from: Jon Schneider on January 08, 2009, 08:05:54 AM
And, Peter (and all who haven't already), don't forget to join the C34 International Association in order to support this "free" (to you, not to the Association) site and receive Mainsheet magazine. At $25/year ($45 for two years), the ideas you'll get may even save you enough to buy back one of your kidneys ;)
John,
45 bucks for two year is a bargin !. Its the best money I will ever spend on my boat.
Well, its 1AM in California and as seen in this recent picture I just said goodby to my caT 28. Capt Lumpy is sleeping on it now in my slip and taking it about 70 miles to the new owner early in the morning. I sure hope he makes it.
Thanks for all the help.
I procrastinated for a couple years on building a smaller table. While the Admiral was out shopping, on a whim I just took it out. Her response....we should have done that 5 years ago! It really opens up the salon. Keep it all at home, table and cushion easily reachable under a bed in case we need the extra sleeping space, compression strut boxed in the attic.
We use a short strap with a snap on the forward corners of the Vee berth insert to keep it in place. Another option if the velcro doesn't work.
You will get used to the fridge. Check the projects page or do a search on "ice box hinge" Couple different ways to hinge the lid, helps with access. When I purchased mine the ice box was just a big hole with the cooling plate in it. I fabricated a removable shelving system that really helps organize the space. Unless it's just an afternoon sail, we almost always have a cooler to hold drinks, on a hot summer day there is nothing better than pulling a cold one out of the ice. That leaves the fridge for just food. If you have a real fridge rather than an "ice box" it is handy to freeze a partially emptied gallon of water. Use it in the cooler on the trip to the boat to keep the cooler cold, then drop it in the bottom of the fridge to help minimize battery use. We have spent several long weekends with 4 or 5 adults on board. Plenty of space for 3 meals a day once you figure out which storage system works best for you.
I'm sure there are as many ways of storing things as there are boat owners. We use the compartments behind the starboard settee for dry food storage, ones on the port side hold a variety of other stuff.
I guess it's just perspective, our dock neighbor has a Hunter. Her fridge looks like a miniature home unit. She hates it. Doesn't hold near what ours will, stuff/cold falls out every time she opens the door.
Give it some time, many of us have had our boats for a number of years. Still trying to get them just right! After a few sails, everything will start falling into place.
Peter,
"I have never made a mistake. One time I thought I had (Bought a C34)... but I was mistaken, I hadn't."
Hopefully you will get to this conclusion. They are great boats and this board is a wonderful resource.
Steve
Peter,
I too have the 2005 model and the Admiral and I love the 34; so will you. After our first season with our 34 we went to the boat show to look at other boats and compare but there was no comparison. There was not another boat, larger or smaller, that had all that the 34 offers. Yes, the aft cabin is tight; let the kids or guests use it. Yes, the table is difficult to put down; we don't. Yes, the table is tight but you can always swivel it sideways and you have much more room. As for the V berth insert, ours has not fallen if it is in securely but yours may need some modifications.
As for sailing, We owned a Catalina 30 and there too there is no comparison. You will find the 34 to sail better, faster and it is much more stable. It is FAR more of a sailing boat than the 30.
All in all, every boat has good points as well as some challenges. I am sure you will find that the 34 offers much more than any other boat out there!
You made a good choice even if it cost you a kidney or two!
Peter : I have no idea why you bought a C34?? Why did you???
When I bought my C34 I did my homework and examined all of the boats' facets and determined which characteristics I could change and which ones I would have to live with!
I make no apologies for the C34 or it's design. I can say that the design has change over the years from 1986 mainly because of owner comments. Some of these design changes I like and some I don't.
I can say that there is no other Sail Boat company that will give you better tech and parts support than Catalina. This spring I'll be launching mine for the 21st season and still believe that it's the best $60K investment I've ever made. I'm sorry that you don't feel the same.
So don't belittle a boat that doesn't meet your expectations, all because you made an inappropriate/hasty/what ever - decision.
Quote from: Ron Hill on January 09, 2009, 06:52:47 PM
So don't belittle a boat that doesn't meet your expectations, all because you made an inappropriate/hasty/what ever - decision.
Now Ron,
I do love Catalina’s and have owned them exclusively since 1989. This is my third. Many of the other members shared my feelings regarding some of the things that I initially noticed after my first night on the boat.
What C34 owner would complain if Catalina put more head or leg height in the aft birth? My boat came with a spring mattress that Is 3 or 4 inches thicker than the foam mattress that most people have, so I even have significantly less room than others. Even Catalina finally figured that one out, as on the new modes the mattress is ½ as thick.
The salon table mechanism that I have is the solid internal rod and not the hydraulic version that you can push down. You have to actually remove the entire table from its post, remove a steel rod and get it back in and push it down,. I can honestly say that the thing is a piece of %$#@, and the fact that I have to remove all the heavy cushions (newer models have particle board built into the bottom of the dinette cushions) is criminal,. It literally took three people to manhandle the table out and back in.
My boat is 3 years old and the fake Wood Floor is already peeling. Don’t get me wrong, I love Catalina’s but let’s just say I think that someone over there, at least for my year was sleeping. Why put a crappy RV table base in a boat that cost $150,00.00. What I think happened, was all the good folks went to Florida to set up there new factory.
Remember, I never dissed the boat, or said bad things about it, was simply trying to get some vaidation that I was not the only one who noticed theses things. I feel its important that we at least recognize the shortcomings and dialog about the ways to mitigate them. That’s how we made America great, innovation and learning to turn adversity to our advantage. The fine folks on this site have already provided me with great incites to how I can resolve many of my concerns.
Like any good relationship learning to love a boat takes time, lets just say, I have a bad first date.
Many Thanks for the support
Peter
Quote from: ellispe on January 09, 2009, 08:15:39 PM
What C34 owner would complain if Catalina put more head or leg height in the aft birth? My boat came with a spring mattress that Is 3 or 4 inches thicker than the foam mattress that most people have, so I even have significantly less room than others. Even Catalina finally figured that one out, as on the new modes the mattress is ½ as thick.
Peter, two thoughts: First, I really wouldn't want to be sleeping on someone else's mattress, so why don't you go to some big box store and get some memory foam for what might actually be a superior (and more sanitary) sleep, and more headroom to boot. Second, every sailboat is a compromise, so, to answer your question, I might complain about more head or leg height in the aft berth if it affected the boat's lines, freeboard, or cockpit (which it would). That's why Catalina triple-digit models and Hunters look the way they do. Remember, you said you bought the 34 for her lines; you have to live with the consequences of those lines, good and bad (maybe).
Peter, hang in there. I had a bad first date once and she ended up being my wife... OK, so later she became the ex-wife but I'm trying to make a point here.... Just give it some time... And perhaps Rum will make everything look better, I know it works with my ex...
Cheers,
Rick
Peter, I believe Rick is correct that the boat will grow on you. I also went the way of ken and removed my table completely. Makes for a nice open salon if you can part with it. I believe if more owners experienced the salon without the table they would quickly appreciate the spaciousness and clean look of the cabin w/o it.
Pete,
Sounds like you just need to go sailing...forget the fridge.
Tom (A Canadian, its already cold)
Peter,
I agree with those saying, "Give it time." Kitty's Cat is my 6th Catalina product and by far, the best. As I said in an earlier post, working on her will help create a bond that will only get stronger with time.
Go through the projects page and look how others have worked on overcoming the issues you have with your boat. Also, I've gained a load of info from this forum. Hang in there and those sexy lines you fell for will reveal into a great personality too. :thumb:
Cheers!
C-22 (3), Capri-25, C-27 & C-34