2003 Catalina 310 vs Catalina 323 — Comparison
2003 Catalina 310
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 2003 Catalina 310 | Catalina 323 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Catalina | Catalina |
| Year | 2003–2007 | 2004–2009 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Gerry Douglas | Gerry Douglas |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 9.45 m (31.0 ft) | 9.75 m (32.0 ft) |
| LWL | 8.38 m (27.5 ft) | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) |
| Beam | 3.30 m (10.8 ft) | 3.25 m (10.7 ft) |
| Draft | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) | 1.75 m (5.7 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs) | 4,763 kg (10,501 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,814 kg (3,999 lbs) | 1,814 kg (3,999 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 45.3 m² (488 ft²) | 46.0 m² (495 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 18 HP | 21 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 76 L (20.1 gal) | 76 L (20.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 114 L (30.1 gal) | 151 L (39.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 6 |
| Cabins | 2 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 2003 Catalina 310 and Catalina 323 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 2003 Catalina 310 is a 2000s design by Catalina from USA, while the Catalina 323 is a 2000s offering from Catalina from USA. The 2003 Catalina 310 was penned by Gerry Douglas. The Catalina 323 was designed by Gerry Douglas.
In terms of size, the 2003 Catalina 310 measures 9.45m (31.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.30m, compared to the Catalina 323 at 9.75m (32.0ft) with a 3.25m beam. The Catalina 323 is 0.30m longer than the 2003 Catalina 310. The Catalina 323 displaces approximately 5% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 2003 Catalina 310 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.80 and 45.3 m² of sail area. The Catalina 323, with an SA/D of 16.51 and 46.0 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The 2003 Catalina 310 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 2003 Catalina 310 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 18.8) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.80). The Catalina 323 has a comfort ratio of 18.3 and a capsize screening value of 0.77. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 2003 Catalina 310 and 38.1% for the Catalina 323, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 2003 Catalina 310 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 76L of fuel. The Catalina 323 offers 6 berths in 1 cabin with 151L water and 76L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 2003 Catalina 310 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 2003 Catalina 310 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: 2003 Catalina 310 · Catalina 323