New boat: Catalina 309

The Catalina 309 has big shoes to fill. Modeled after the original Catalina 30—which was launched in 1974 and went on to become one of the most popular family racer-cruisers—the 309 seeks to provide its owners with comfort, performance and durability.

The cockpit is designed to be comfortable, a challenge on a 32-foot boat. The seats are long enough to sleep on and a folding Lewmar wheel allows better traffic flow when the boat is moored. The winches can be converted to electric if an owner chooses.

In-mast furling is standard on the 309 and the Selden rig features a redundant network for less friction and mechanical backup systems so the furling system never becomes a hazard. A 135-percent genoa helps power the boat.

Down below, private fore and aft cabins are supplemented by a large settee, to make cruising with the family comfortable. A U-shaped galley with a two-burner stove, oven and refrigerator should make cooking simple. Hot pressured water and a hot and cold shower on the stern are other creature comforts.

Owners can choose between a wing keel drawing 4 feet, 4 inches, or a fin keel drawing 6 feet, 3 inches.