$ 40K for a 1986 Cat30 sounds high even in Canadian dollars. It would have to be in perfect shape to demand this
price. Of course, the Canadian market may be different than the US market..
The Cat30 was designed as a coastal cruiser.
The Tall Rig (TR) is the better configuration. More sail area, faster and the
bowsprit moves the center of effort of the
genoa forward thus reducing
weather helm (and improving speed due less
rudder drag...)
If it is an 1986, it will probably already have factory modifications that my 1984 was lacking such as a
PROPANE (not pressurized alcohol)
stove and a STRAIGHT traveler (as opposed to a useless curved one).
As stated, with the Cat 30 you can get
parts easily through Catalina Direct. If it has a Universal
diesel engine, the
engine is originally from Kubota and you can get cheaper parts from the tractor supply houses.
The
Catalina 30 is basically a camper with
sails. The wider
cabin however leads to narrow side decks for going back & forth to the bow.
Things to check on the Catalina:
-The upper
shroud chain plates should be removed and checked for crevice
corrosion
-Leaky windows
-Blisters in the
hull due
osmosis (my boat had a lot...)
-Deck
leaks under the
mast causing
compression issues (not that common, but it does exist)
-Keel bolt condition
-Steering play (cables,
pedestal / rudder)
-Lifeline/ stanchion condition.
The hull is solid
fiberglass and Catalina used a good quality
plywood as coring for the decks & inner soles, so sponginess is not an issue.
Cheers.