Catalina 315 vs 1982 Freedom 28 — Comparison

Catalina 315Catalina 315
VS
1982 Freedom 281982 Freedom 28

Specifications Side by Side

SpecificationCatalina 3151982 Freedom 28
General
ManufacturerCatalinaFreedom
Year20141982–1988
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerGerry DouglasGarry Hoyt
Dimensions
LOA9.45 m (31.0 ft)8.53 m (28.0 ft)
LWL8.61 m (28.2 ft)7.01 m (23.0 ft)
Beam3.20 m (10.5 ft)2.84 m (9.3 ft)
Draft1.68 m (5.5 ft)1.14 m (3.7 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,536 kg (10,000 lbs)2,495 kg (5,501 lbs)
Ballast1,814 kg (3,999 lbs)907 kg (2,000 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area44.0 m² (474 ft²)29.0 m² (312 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine21 HP10 HP
Fuel Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)38 L (10.0 gal)
Water Capacity132 L (34.9 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths55
Cabins11

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
Catalina 315
16.32
1982 Freedom 28
16.02
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
Catalina 315
39.99
1982 Freedom 28
36.35
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
Catalina 315
0.77
1982 Freedom 28
0.84
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
Catalina 315
18.85
1982 Freedom 28
17.13

Detailed Comparison

The Catalina 315 and 1982 Freedom 28 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The Catalina 315 is a modern design by Catalina from USA, while the 1982 Freedom 28 is a 1980s offering from Freedom from USA. The Catalina 315 was penned by Gerry Douglas. The 1982 Freedom 28 was designed by Garry Hoyt.

In terms of size, the Catalina 315 measures 9.45m (31.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.20m, compared to the 1982 Freedom 28 at 8.53m (28.0ft) with a 2.84m beam. The Catalina 315 is 0.92m longer than the 1982 Freedom 28. The Catalina 315 displaces approximately 82% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the Catalina 315 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.32 and 44.0 m² of sail area. The 1982 Freedom 28, with an SA/D of 16.02 and 29.0 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The Catalina 315 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the Catalina 315 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 18.9) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.77). The 1982 Freedom 28 has a comfort ratio of 17.1 and a capsize screening value of 0.84. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the Catalina 315 and 36.4% for the 1982 Freedom 28, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the Catalina 315 provides 5 berths in 1 cabin with 132L of water capacity and 76L of fuel. The 1982 Freedom 28 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 57L water and 38L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The Catalina 315 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 315 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: Catalina 315 · 1982 Freedom 28