History

Evolution of the Catalina 34

The original C34 was introduced in 1986 (first hulls produced in 1985). Designed by Frank Butler, it quickly gained popularity as a fast, stiff, and sturdily built cruising yacht. It is a great light-air performer with commodious accommodations. The C-34 has evolved since 1986, always having the choices of the tall (approximately 52 feet) or the standard (approximately 50 feet) mast, and later in-mast furling. Additionally, the early models had the OPTION of keel or deck-stepped masts (see 1986 price list), then switched to deck-stepped. It also offered a choice of a wing (4 feet 3 inch) or fin (5 feet 7 inch) keel. The model launched with a Universal 25 (21HP) diesel engine, evolved to a 25XP (23HP), and finally to the 35XP. The easiest way to identify the three different models of the C34 is to look at the stern.

The MKI

87small

1986-1989 Enclosed stern.

Sugar_scoop

In 1989, a “sugar scoop was added to the Mk 1 transom for use as a swim/boarding platform. We’ve “tagged” it as the Mark 1 and 1/4!!!

The Mk 1.5

In 1990 the cockpit floor was extended through the transom. The interiors began to transition to the Mark II in the saloon.

Mk1.5_(Small)_(Small)

The “Walk Thru” transom on the Mk 1 hull has been coined the Mk 1.5.

 

The Mk II

In 1994 the transition began to a wider stern shape. The official roll out of the C 34 Mk II was in 1998.

MkII(small)

Hulls produced in the 1995-1997 transition years with the wider profiles are considered Mk II’s.