Chris-Craft Catalina 34: A Newer, Bigger Catalina is On the Way
Chris-Craft Boats has announced that the new Catalina 34, the biggest Catalina model yet, will be introduced this fall.
August 27, 2014
A few years back we brought you an in-depth look at the Chris-Craft Catalina 26, last spring we took a long hard look at the Catalina 29, and now we’re getting ready for the first glimpse of the all-new Chris-Craft Catalina 34. This will be the biggest Catalina model yet, and will run with either twin or triple outboards.
The all-new Chris-Craft Catalina 34 is set to be introduced in the late fall of 2014.
Even though the Catalina 34 is a CC, overnighting is in the cards.
Like others in the Catalina line this is a center console model, which tilts far from fishing and much more towards fun in the sun. In the bow, for example, the seating will convert into a big sun lounger with cup holders and arm rests. And inside the console instead of finding rod-racks and tackle stowage, there’s a berth and a head for overnighting.
But like the other Catalina models, the boat is still thoroughly fishable. Along with the 360-degree fishability of the center console design, you get aft seating that folds away to open up the cockpit for working rods, a 40-gallon livewell, two 50-gallon fishboxes, four gunwale rodholders, and a raw water washdown. Outriggers, underwater lights, and a windlass with chain are all options.
The Catalina 34 will be fishable, but fishing isn't necessarily its main mission.
Although the 34 Catalina will maintain Chris-Craft’s reputed cushy comfort levels, there will also be a few options cruisers and schmoozers will want to consider. You can get a “Summer Kitchen” in the leaning post, which adds an electric grill, pull-out refrigerator and freezer, and a sink. A generator and cabin air-conditioning is also on the wish-list. And a bow thruster can be added, as well.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Length | 34'0" |
| Beam | 10'10" |
| Draft | 2'2" |
| Deadrise | 21 degrees |
| Displacement | 10,000 lbs |
| Fuel capacity | 325 gal. |
| Water capacity | 40 gal. |
A few big-boat features more commonly found on yachts than center consoles will also be on the 34. The T-top, for example, will house one of those extending sunshades that have become standard fare on 50-footers. And if you opt for the teak package, the boat’s eye-appeal should go through the roof.
Will the new Catalina share it’s predecessor’s flair for surprisingly fast performance and exceptional handling? We can’t say, of course, until the first hull hits the water and we get a chance to run it. But if past history is any indication it’s a good bet. In any case, one thing is for sure: this is going to be the biggest Catalina yet, and it seems like a good bet it’s also going to be the best.
For more information, visit Chris-Craft.
