1994 J/105 vs Catalina 36 MkII — Comparison
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1994 J/105 | Catalina 36 MkII |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | J/Boats | Catalina |
| Year | 1994–2008 | 1999–2006 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Rod Johnstone | Gerry Douglas |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 10.52 m (34.5 ft) | 10.97 m (36.0 ft) |
| LWL | 8.97 m (29.4 ft) | 9.60 m (31.5 ft) |
| Beam | 3.28 m (10.8 ft) | 3.55 m (11.6 ft) |
| Draft | 1.98 m (6.5 ft) | 1.83 m (6.0 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 3,856 kg (8,501 lbs) | 6,577 kg (14,500 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,678 kg (3,699 lbs) | 2,495 kg (5,501 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 57.6 m² (620 ft²) | 56.5 m² (608 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 27 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 38 L (10.0 gal) | 95 L (25.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 189 L (49.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 7 |
| Cabins | 2 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1994 J/105 and Catalina 36 MkII represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1994 J/105 is a 1990s design by J/Boats from USA, while the Catalina 36 MkII is a 1990s offering from Catalina from USA. The 1994 J/105 was penned by Rod Johnstone. The Catalina 36 MkII was designed by Gerry Douglas.
In terms of size, the 1994 J/105 measures 10.52m (34.5ft) overall with a beam of 3.28m, compared to the Catalina 36 MkII at 10.97m (36.0ft) with a 3.55m beam. The Catalina 36 MkII is 0.45m longer than the 1994 J/105. The Catalina 36 MkII displaces approximately 71% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1994 J/105 has generous sail power for spirited sailing with an SA/D ratio of 23.80 and 57.6 m² of sail area. The Catalina 36 MkII, with an SA/D of 16.35 and 56.5 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The 1994 J/105 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1994 J/105 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 13.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.84). The Catalina 36 MkII has a comfort ratio of 18.7 and a capsize screening value of 0.76. The ballast ratios are 43.5% for the 1994 J/105 and 37.9% for the Catalina 36 MkII, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1994 J/105 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 57L of water capacity and 38L of fuel. The Catalina 36 MkII offers 7 berths in 2 cabins with 189L water and 95L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The Catalina 36 MkII 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 1994 J/105 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 36 MkII offers more sleeping accommodation, making it better suited for extended 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: 1994 J/105 · Catalina 36 MkII