1993 Moody 31 vs Catalina 28 — Comparison

1993 Moody 311993 Moody 31
VS
Catalina 28Catalina 28

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1993 Moody 31Catalina 28
General
ManufacturerMoodyCatalina
Year1993–20001998–2004
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUKUSA
DesignerBill DixonGerry Douglas
Dimensions
LOA9.45 m (31.0 ft)8.69 m (28.5 ft)
LWL7.80 m (25.6 ft)7.62 m (25.0 ft)
Beam3.13 m (10.3 ft)2.90 m (9.5 ft)
Draft1.52 m (5.0 ft)1.37 m (4.5 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,500 kg (9,921 lbs)2,812 kg (6,199 lbs)
Ballast1,800 kg (3,968 lbs)1,134 kg (2,500 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area40.5 m² (436 ft²)33.5 m² (361 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeBilgeFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine18 HP15 HP
Fuel Capacity68 L (18.0 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Water Capacity114 L (30.1 gal)95 L (25.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins21

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1993 Moody 31
15.10
Catalina 28
17.09
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1993 Moody 31
40.00
Catalina 28
40.33
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1993 Moody 31
0.76
Catalina 28
0.82
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1993 Moody 31
21.98
Catalina 28
16.59

Detailed Comparison

The 1993 Moody 31 and Catalina 28 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1993 Moody 31 is a 1990s design by Moody from UK, while the Catalina 28 is a 1990s offering from Catalina from USA. The 1993 Moody 31 was penned by Bill Dixon. The Catalina 28 was designed by Gerry Douglas.

In terms of size, the 1993 Moody 31 measures 9.45m (31.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.13m, compared to the Catalina 28 at 8.69m (28.5ft) with a 2.90m beam. The 1993 Moody 31 is 0.76m longer than the Catalina 28. The 1993 Moody 31 displaces approximately 60% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1993 Moody 31 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.10 and 40.5 m² of sail area. The Catalina 28, with an SA/D of 17.09 and 33.5 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The Catalina 28 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1993 Moody 31 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 22.0) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.76). The Catalina 28 has a comfort ratio of 16.6 and a capsize screening value of 0.82. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1993 Moody 31 and 40.3% for the Catalina 28, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1993 Moody 31 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 68L of fuel. The Catalina 28 offers 6 berths in 1 cabin with 95L water and 57L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1993 Moody 31 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 28 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: 1993 Moody 31 · Catalina 28