1989 Catalina 36 vs 2008 X-Yachts X-46 — Comparison
1989 Catalina 36
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1989 Catalina 36 | 2008 X-Yachts X-46 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Catalina | X-Yachts |
| Year | 1989–1994 | 2008–2014 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | Denmark |
| Designer | Frank Butler | Niels Jeppesen |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 10.97 m (36.0 ft) | 13.95 m (45.8 ft) |
| LWL | 9.14 m (30.0 ft) | 12.00 m (39.4 ft) |
| Beam | 3.65 m (12.0 ft) | 4.10 m (13.5 ft) |
| Draft | 1.83 m (6.0 ft) | 2.35 m (7.7 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 6,804 kg (15,000 lbs) | 11,000 kg (24,251 lbs) |
| Ballast | 2,722 kg (6,001 lbs) | 4,200 kg (9,259 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 56.3 m² (606 ft²) | 93.0 m² (1,001 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 22 HP | 55 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 114 L (30.1 gal) | 160 L (42.3 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 189 L (49.9 gal) | 300 L (79.3 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 7 | 7 |
| Cabins | 2 | 3 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1989 Catalina 36 and 2008 X-Yachts X-46 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1989 Catalina 36 is a 1980s design by Catalina from USA, while the 2008 X-Yachts X-46 is a 2000s offering from X-Yachts from Denmark. The 1989 Catalina 36 was penned by Frank Butler. The 2008 X-Yachts X-46 was designed by Niels Jeppesen.
In terms of size, the 1989 Catalina 36 measures 10.97m (36.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.65m, compared to the 2008 X-Yachts X-46 at 13.95m (45.8ft) with a 4.10m beam. The 2008 X-Yachts X-46 is 2.98m longer than the 1989 Catalina 36. The 2008 X-Yachts X-46 displaces approximately 62% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1989 Catalina 36 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.93 and 56.3 m² of sail area. The 2008 X-Yachts X-46, with an SA/D of 19.10 and 93.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The 2008 X-Yachts X-46 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1989 Catalina 36 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 19.9) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.77). The 2008 X-Yachts X-46 has a comfort ratio of 16.3 and a capsize screening value of 0.74. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1989 Catalina 36 and 38.2% for the 2008 X-Yachts X-46, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1989 Catalina 36 provides 7 berths in 2 cabins with 189L of water capacity and 114L of fuel. The 2008 X-Yachts X-46 offers 7 berths in 3 cabins with 300L water and 160L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1989 Catalina 36 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 2008 X-Yachts X-46 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.
Compare Different Boats
Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats
Or view individual specs: 1989 Catalina 36 · 2008 X-Yachts X-46