1996 Catalina 250 Sold Boat in Hingham, MA US
250
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25 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Catalina boats for sale in Massachusetts, United States
Yard maintained vessel. Low engine hours, autohelm, GPS, VHF, bottom soda blasted 2016, Jib 6 years old. Won't last long at this price.
Yard maintained vessel. Low engine hours, autohelm, GPS, VHF, bottom soda blasted 2016, Jib 6 years old. Won't last long at this price.
1996 Catalina 250 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1996 Catalina 250
Customers of the 1996 Catalina 250 often praise the boat for its excellent balance of performance and comfort
Many appreciate its roomy interior, which offers surprising space for a 25-foot sailboat, making it ideal for weekend cruising or short trips. The boat's ease of handling and responsive sailing characteristics are frequently highlighted, making it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. Owners also note the solid construction and reliable build quality typical of Catalina yachts. Some mention minor maintenance needs typical of boats from this era, but overall, the 1996 Catalina 250 is regarded as a well-designed, versatile, and enjoyable cruiser.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1996 Catalina 250 is a popular trailerable sailboat known for its balance of performance, comfort, and ease of handling. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Trailerable and Easy to Launch: With a retractable swing keel, the Catalina 250 can be easily trailered and launched, making it convenient for weekend sailors and those without permanent dock space.
Spacious Interior: For a 25-foot boat, it offers a surprisingly roomy cabin with sleeping accommodations for up to five, a functional galley, and a private head, making it comfortable for extended cruising.
Stable and Forgiving Design: The boat’s hull and keel design provide good stability and a forgiving sailing experience, which is ideal for beginners and casual sailors.
Good Performance: It offers respectable sailing performance with balanced handling and decent speed in a variety of wind conditions.
Solid Construction: Known for durable fiberglass construction and quality fittings, the Catalina 250 holds up well over time with proper maintenance.
Cons
Limited Headroom: Cabin headroom is somewhat restricted (around 5’6”), which can feel cramped for taller individuals during extended stays below deck.
Swing Keel Maintenance: The swing keel mechanism requires regular inspection and maintenance to prevent corrosion or mechanical issues, which can be a concern for some owners.
Modest Storage Space: While the interior is spacious, storage compartments are limited compared to larger cruisers, requiring careful organization for longer trips.
Basic Outfitting: As a boat designed in the mid-90s, some models may have outdated hardware or systems that owners might want to upgrade for improved comfort or performance.
Performance in Light Air: The Catalina 250 can be sluggish in very light wind conditions due to its displacement and sail area.
Made For
The 1996 Catalina 250 is ideal for sailing enthusiasts seeking a versatile and manageable sailboat that combines comfort with performance. It’s perfect for couples or small families looking for a reliable cruiser that’s easy to handle both on day sails and longer weekend trips. Its spacious interior and practical design also make it a great choice for sailors new to keelboats who want a boat that’s forgiving yet capable on the water. Whether you’re exploring coastal waters or enjoying a relaxed weekend getaway, the Catalina 250 offers an excellent balance of convenience, comfort, and sailing enjoyment.
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Hingham, MA






















