2010 Catalina 250 Wing Keel

This 250 feels much bigger than the number on the hull suggests. The wide beam carries well forward, so you get a surprisingly open saloon and a genuinely usable aft berth instead of the usual crawlspace. Light and ventilation are excellent for a boat this size, thanks to the large ports and opening hatches, which makes weekends aboard far more pleasant in warmer weather. Under sail, the wing keel keeps her on her feet and forgiving if you’re still honing your skills, while the deck layout is simple enough for short-handed days. The cockpit is deep and secure, with plenty of bracing points and coamings at a comfortable height for longer tacks.

In these waters, a Catalina 250 with a wing keel hits a sweet spot between performance and practicality. The moderate draft opens up quieter anchorages and shallower channels that deeper fin-keel cruisers can’t comfortably use, yet you still get enough bite to track well in open fetch and afternoon chop. The hull form is kind to less experienced crew when the breeze builds, and the generous cockpit works beautifully for relaxed daysailing with friends. When the sea breeze fades, the efficient outboard setup gets you home without fuss. For a sailor wanting an easy-to-own, trailerable cruiser that suits local depths and variable conditions, this design is a smart match.