Multiple honours for Catalina Yachts

by Bob Wonders on 14 Jul 2011 When a boat manufacturer’s creation is named ‘ a best’ in any category, it’s usually time to ‘pop’ the occasional champagne bottle.

However, in the case of US sailboat builder, Catalina Yachts., a number of bottles of the famed ‘bubbly’ may be more appropriate.

Two of the company’s vessels, the Catalina 355 and the Catalina 445 have each picked up two awards, the 355 being named ‘Domestic Boat of the Year;’ and ‘Best Mid-size Cruiser, 30’to 39’ (9.14-11.88-metres) by Cruising World magazine.

The Catalina 445 carried off Sail Magazine’s ‘Best Cruising Monohull under 50’ (15.24-metres) and Cruising World’s ‘Best Full-size Cruiser.’

For Australian Catalina fans, the Sydney International Boat Show (July 28-August 1) gives them the opportunity to inspect both models at the display hosted by the Ausail Group on the Cockle Bay Marina.

Industry identity Norman Ambrose is confident the display will clearly drive home to visitors the quality and value for money offered by the Catalina range.

'The Catalina 445, which received its awards in the US during the past 12 months, has built a solid reputation and 60 examples have already been sold worldwide,' he said.

'Best described as a slim-line model, it’s a vessel that does not compromise on outdoor space.

'I rate it as a sporty design, a lower profile, less freeboard and a sleeker hull shape when compared with earlier Catalina models.

'It will appeal, I’m sure, not only to the cruising market, but also to those sailors keen to do some racing,' he added.

Mr Ambrose said the design parameters of the Catalina 445 had been so well received that those design elements had been carried forward into the new Catalina 355.

It is certainly a handsome design, with a low profile cabin structure, a long waterline and moderate beam and freeboard.

Both models boast delightful interiors, with hand-finished teak, clear varnish finishes and superb joinery and upholstery throughout.

Incidentally, all Catalina Yachts carry lead keels.

According to Norman Ambrose, Catalina philosophy is straightforward; 'Design boats that stand up to real world conditions and sail well,' he said.

'They must also be comfortable above and below, offer easy maintenance and hold their value,' he added.

Catalina Yachts has also won a fine reputation for its commitment to owner satisfaction and the company believes this has enhanced consumer confidence and loyalty around rhe world.

'And with the Australian dollar consistently high against the US dollar, owing a Catalina is n o longer just a dream,' Mr Ambrose was quick to point out.

In addition to the two award-winning models, the Ausail Group will also display the popular 309 and 375 from the Catalina range.

For further information contact the Ausail Group, telephone (07) 5514-8541 or (02) 9979-7217 or visit the website, www.catalina.com.au