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

History

Copies of Catalina Yachts C34 sales brochures

1985 review of the "new" C34 in Sailing Magazine. Sailing Review (published with permission)

C34 Seaworthiness metrics