Evolution of the Catalina 34
The original C34 was introduced in 1986. 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 easiest way to identify the 3 different models of the C34 is to look at the stern.
The Mk I
1986-1989 Enclosed stern.
In 1989, a "sugar scoup" was added to the Mk 1 transom for use as a swim/boarding platform.
The Mk 1.5
In 1990 the cockpit floor was extended through the transom.
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.
Hulls produced in the 1995-1997 transition years with the wider profiles are considered Mk II's.
Items of Interest
Copies of sales brochures. Brochures
1985 review of the "new" C34 in Sailing Magazine. Sailing Review
A discussion of the Seaworthyness of the C34 [1]