1969 Ericson 35 vs Catalina 425 — Comparison

1969 Ericson 35
VS
Catalina 425Catalina 425

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1969 Ericson 35Catalina 425
General
ManufacturerEricsonCatalina
Year1969–19762013
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerBruce KingGerry Douglas
Dimensions
LOA10.67 m (35.0 ft)12.95 m (42.5 ft)
LWL7.92 m (26.0 ft)11.28 m (37.0 ft)
Beam3.05 m (10.0 ft)3.96 m (13.0 ft)
Draft1.52 m (5.0 ft)2.06 m (6.8 ft)
Weight
Displacement5,443 kg (12,000 lbs)9,616 kg (21,200 lbs)
Ballast2,177 kg (4,799 lbs)3,719 kg (8,199 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area48.6 m² (523 ft²)78.0 m² (840 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine18 HP55 HP
Fuel Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)152 L (40.2 gal)
Water Capacity114 L (30.1 gal)322 L (85.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths67
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1969 Ericson 35
15.96
Catalina 425
17.52
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1969 Ericson 35
40.00
Catalina 425
38.68
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1969 Ericson 35
0.69
Catalina 425
0.75
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1969 Ericson 35
24.76
Catalina 425
17.02

Detailed Comparison

The 1969 Ericson 35 and Catalina 425 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1969 Ericson 35 is a classic design by Ericson from USA, while the Catalina 425 is a modern offering from Catalina from USA. The 1969 Ericson 35 was penned by Bruce King. The Catalina 425 was designed by Gerry Douglas.

In terms of size, the 1969 Ericson 35 measures 10.67m (35.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.05m, compared to the Catalina 425 at 12.95m (42.5ft) with a 3.96m beam. The Catalina 425 is 2.28m longer than the 1969 Ericson 35. The Catalina 425 displaces approximately 77% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1969 Ericson 35 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.96 and 48.6 m² of sail area. The Catalina 425, with an SA/D of 17.52 and 78.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The Catalina 425 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1969 Ericson 35 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 24.8) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.69). The Catalina 425 has a comfort ratio of 17.0 and a capsize screening value of 0.75. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1969 Ericson 35 and 38.7% for the Catalina 425, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1969 Ericson 35 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The Catalina 425 offers 7 berths in 2 cabins with 322L water and 152L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1969 Ericson 35 is the better choice for comfortable cruising thanks to its higher comfort ratio, offering a gentler motion at sea that crews will appreciate on longer passages.

For racing: The Catalina 425 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.

For liveaboard: The Catalina 425 offers more sleeping accommodation, making it better suited for extended living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.

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Or view individual specs: 1969 Ericson 35 · Catalina 425