The new Catalina 356 is among five of the Florida builder’s models that are part of the 6 Series, a newly launched range that represents significant changes and upgrades to the popular 5 Series. In that earlier version, Catalina built 187 of the 356’s predecessor, the 355, says the company’s head of engineering, Jon Ames, so the new 356 is likely to be a similarly popular mid-size model.
Though the hull and deck have not changed, the new series benefits from more than 20 modifications, and arguably the most significant of these from a sailing standpoint are a new keel and rig. Ames says that the most popular keel shape had been the wing, but working with Mars Metal, the designers created a new shape—a cruising bulb—that lowers the boat’s center of gravity and reduces wetted surface by 22%. Both changes will enhance the boat’s performance, Ames says.
Up top, a new, double-spreader Seldén rig enables several beneficial changes, not least that all shrouds now lead to one attachment point that’s inboard and close to the cabintop, keeping the side decks completely clear as you move forward. The new LMP sections allow for weight savings aloft, and a Doyle code sail will complement the new rig for off the wind sailing.
“Our partners at Mars Metal and Seldén were instrumental in driving forward the 6 Series,” says Ames. “Our goal throughout was to focus on improved performance and technology, while also delivering Catalina’s legendary quality, craftsmanship, and value.”
The new in-mast furling main is sheeted double-ended—similar to a German sheeted system—taking the mainsheet through two blocks on either side of the cabintop just ahead of the dodger and then back to the cockpit winches, enabling easy trimming from both sides of the cockpit and eliminating a traveler. A new electric winch on the cabintop helps with halyard handling.
In the cockpit, a solid stainless steel railing completely encircles the space up to the gates on the side deck, adding to security. A new steering pedestal built by Edson for Catalina, called the Butler Explorer, is added for the helm. The transom, with its centerline walkthrough to the sugar scoop stern, and the matching stern cockpit seats are the same as on the 355.
Belowdecks, fans of the 355 will find much the same in terms of layout, and upgrades are throughout including new hull-side fixed ports and new cabin side opening ports for added light and a more contemporary look. New solid countertops are in the galley and head, and the head sink has been changed to the popular “vessel” style.
Mechanical upgrades include a larger Group 31 starting battery, the Sensar Marine Boat Monitor system as standard, a diesel heating system option for extending your sailing season, and new LED lighting and outlets throughout. In terms of construction, multiaxial fiberglass was used in the laminate, as well as carbon in certain locations, to help stiffen the structure.
In a media release, the company notes that, “The development of the 6 Series was heavily influenced by feedback from both direct calls with owners and the new owner survey app. This feedback helped identify the features and improvements that customers wanted to see in updated models. Catalina is proud to say that the 6 Series reflects the desires and expectations of these loyal sailors.”
“Catalina has always been committed to listening to our owners and our dealers,” says company President Sharon Day. “That was how Frank built Catalina into a trusted brand and America’s largest sailboat builder, and I’m proud that we are carrying his vision forward with the new 6 Series.”
LOA 36’6″ LWL 30’2″ Beam 12′ Draft 4’6″ (shoal) 6’8″ (fin) Air Draft 54.9” Displacement 16,800 lbs (half load) Ballast 6,200 lbs (shoal) 5,200 lbs (fin) Sail Area 1,222 sq ft (main and 135% genoa) Power Yanmar 30hp Base Price $284,838 Catalina Yachts
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