Catalina 270 vs 1990 Island Packet 29 — Comparison
Catalina 270
1990 Island Packet 29
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | Catalina 270 | 1990 Island Packet 29 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Catalina | Island Packet |
| Year | 1992–2002 | 1990–1998 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Gerry Douglas | Bob Johnson |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 8.31 m (27.3 ft) | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.24 m (23.8 ft) | 7.47 m (24.5 ft) |
| Beam | 2.74 m (9.0 ft) | 3.05 m (10.0 ft) |
| Draft | 1.47 m (4.8 ft) | 1.12 m (3.7 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 2,313 kg (5,099 lbs) | 3,856 kg (8,501 lbs) |
| Ballast | 907 kg (2,000 lbs) | 1,588 kg (3,501 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 31.0 m² (334 ft²) | 33.5 m² (361 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Full |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 12 HP | 18 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 45 L (11.9 gal) | 76 L (20.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 68 L (18.0 gal) | 132 L (34.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 5 | 5 |
| Cabins | 1 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The Catalina 270 and 1990 Island Packet 29 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The Catalina 270 is a 1990s design by Catalina from USA, while the 1990 Island Packet 29 is a 1990s offering from Island Packet from USA. The Catalina 270 was penned by Gerry Douglas. The 1990 Island Packet 29 was designed by Bob Johnson.
In terms of size, the Catalina 270 measures 8.31m (27.3ft) overall with a beam of 2.74m, compared to the 1990 Island Packet 29 at 8.84m (29.0ft) with a 3.05m beam. The 1990 Island Packet 29 is 0.53m longer than the Catalina 270. The 1990 Island Packet 29 displaces approximately 67% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the Catalina 270 has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 18.01 and 31.0 m² of sail area. The 1990 Island Packet 29, with an SA/D of 13.84 and 33.5 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The Catalina 270 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the Catalina 270 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 16.2) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.83). The 1990 Island Packet 29 has a comfort ratio of 21.6 and a capsize screening value of 0.78. The ballast ratios are 39.2% for the Catalina 270 and 41.2% for the 1990 Island Packet 29, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the Catalina 270 provides 5 berths in 1 cabin with 68L of water capacity and 45L of fuel. The 1990 Island Packet 29 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 132L water and 76L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1990 Island Packet 29 is the better choice for comfortable cruising thanks to its higher comfort ratio, offering a gentler motion at sea that crews will appreciate on longer passages.
For racing: The Catalina 270 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.
Compare Different Boats
Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats
Or view individual specs: Catalina 270 · 1990 Island Packet 29