1974 Catalina 27 Sold Boat in Aeia, HI 96701 US
27
1 Engine (Universal)
26.8 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Despite the fact that the Catalina 27 was designed and built as a coastal cruiser-racer, several have actually made circumnavigations.
In 1979 a young 28 year old Patrick Childress set off in his shoal draft Catalina 27, Juggernaut, on a successful 3 year single-handed circumnavigation which included a 6400-mile, 53-day passage of the Indian Ocean.
"LUNA" General Information
Launched in 1971, the Catalina 27 has been a popular favourite, enjoying the kind of commercial success that’s led to one of the longest and largest production runs of its era spanning 22 years and 6,600 boats. From the outset she was designed to be affordable for weekend excursions, club racing and coastal cruising – offshore work was always outside of the design scope. Yet despite this there has been at least one circumnavigation demonstrating that this vessel, with the right preparation and skills, can be an ocean passage maker.
The Catalina 27 was conceived in a 1970 design partnership between Robert Finch, and the founder of Catalina Yachts, Frank Butler. Butler built an incredible number of 27s at his boat factory in Southern California using modern boatbuilding processes that are not too different to methods employed today. Initial production started in 1971. She had a incredibly spacious interior.
Specifications
LOA: 26′ 10″
LWL: 21′ 9″
Beam: 8′ 6″
Draft, Standard: 4′ 0″
Draft, Shoal Keel: 3′ 5″
Displacement, Standard: 6,850 lbs.
Displacement, Shoal Keel: 7,300 lbs.
Ballast, Standard: 2,700 lbs.
Ballast, Shoal Keel: 3,150 lbs.
Sail Area, Standard: 340 sq. ft.
Sail Area, Tall Rig: 364 sq. ft.
Bridge Clearance, Standard: 38’3″
Bridge Clearance, Tall Rig: 41′ 0″
Headroom: 6’ 1″
Engine: Universal Diesel
Fuel: 15-20 US. Gal.
Water: 18 US. Gal.
Designer: Robert Finch / Frank Butler
Builder, United States: Catalina Yachts, California
Builder, Canada: Cooper Enterprises, British Columbia
Builder, United Kingdom: Eric Birch, Essex / Russell Marine, Essex
Year Introduced: 1971
Year Ended: 1991
Total Built: 6662
Also Known As: Jaguar 27 (UK/Europe)
Electrical Equipment
Shore Power Inlet:✓
Electronics
Compass:✓
GPS:✓
VHF:✓
Inside Equipment
Electric Bilge Pump:✓
Manual Bilge Pump:✓
Marine Head:✓
Refrigerator:✓
Battery Charger:✓
Outside Equipment
Solar Panel:✓
Swimming Ladder:✓
Rigging
Steering Wheel:✓
Sails
Battened Mainsail:✓
Furling Genoa:✓
Engine Make:Universal
Engine Model:M-18
Engine Year:1974
Total Power:18hp
Engine Hours:1196
Engine Type:Inboard
Drive Type:Direct Drive
Fuel Type:Diesel
Propeller Type:3 Blade
Propeller Material:Bronze
Length Overall:28ft
Length on Deck:26.83ft
Max Draft:4ft
Beam:8.83ft
Length at Waterline:21.75ft
Tanks
Fresh Water Tank:
Fuel Tank:
Holding Tank:
Accommodations
Guest Heads:1
The company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change or withdrawal without notice.
1974 Catalina 27 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1974 Catalina 27
Customers praise the 1974 Catalina 27 for its classic design, solid construction, and excellent sailing performance
Many highlight its spacious interior for a boat of its size, making it comfortable for weekend cruising. Owners appreciate the ease of handling and the boat’s stability in various wind conditions. The 1974 Catalina 27 is also noted for its reliable build quality and timeless appeal, making it a popular choice among both new sailors and experienced enthusiasts. Some users mention minor maintenance typical for a vessel of its age but agree that it offers great value and a rewarding sailing experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1974 Catalina 27 is a classic cruiser that has earned a loyal following over the years. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this popular sailboat:
Pros
Solid Construction: Built with a sturdy fiberglass hull, the Catalina 27 offers durability and longevity.
Spacious Interior: For a 27-foot boat, it provides a surprisingly roomy cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to five people.
Easy Handling: Its manageable size and sail plan make it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors.
Versatile Design: The Catalina 27 performs well in a variety of conditions, whether coastal cruising or casual day sailing.
Strong Community Support: Being a popular model, there is a wealth of knowledge, parts, and accessories available from other owners and enthusiasts.
Cons
Older Design: As a boat designed in the early 1970s, some aspects of the design and materials may feel dated compared to modern sailboats.
Limited Headroom: While spacious for its size, taller sailors might find the cabin headroom somewhat restrictive.
Maintenance Needs: Like many older boats, it may require ongoing maintenance and upgrades to systems such as electrical, plumbing, and rigging.
Performance Limitations: While versatile, it’s not a high-performance racer and may be outpaced by newer designs in competitive sailing.
Weight: The boat’s relatively heavy displacement can affect acceleration and light-wind performance.
Made For
The 1974 Catalina 27 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and reliable cruiser that offers comfortable accommodations in a manageable size. Perfect for couples, small families, or solo sailors, this boat is well-suited for weekend getaways, coastal cruising, and club racing. Its combination of ease of handling, solid construction, and classic design makes it a great choice for both beginner and experienced sailors looking to enjoy time on the water with confidence and style.
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Meet the Broker

Address
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Boat Location
Contact Honolulu Yacht Brokerage about 1974 Catalina 27
24 Sand Island Access Road, Suite 19, Honolulu, HI, 96819







