
Catalina is an island off the coast of California. The size of boat you need to get there depends on the weather conditions and the number of passengers. Some people recommend a boat of at least 18' for a solo trip, while others suggest a minimum of 23-26' for a family.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smallest boat size | 14' |
| Smallest boat size for a family | 23-26' |
| Smallest boat size for a family recommended by some | 24' or more |
| Boat size for a learning vessel | 18' |
| Boat size for a hardcore trip | 17 1/2' |
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14' boats
If you're planning to take a 14-foot boat to Catalina, you should be aware that this is considered a small vessel for this crossing. One source describes the 14-foot boat as the smallest they would take to Catalina, and they were travelling with their wife and child. Another source describes the crossing as "nasty" and warns that the weather is everything.
If you're an inexperienced boater, you might want to consider a larger vessel. One source describes a 19-foot boat as small for a run to Catalina, and they were an inexperienced boater who had found the ferry journey pretty rough. Another source describes a 24-foot boat as the smallest they would take their family on.
However, it is possible to make the crossing in a 14-foot boat, as demonstrated by a Reddit post about taking a 14-foot Jon boat with a 6hp outboard to Catalina. If you're planning to take a family, a cuddy cabin is recommended.
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17' boats
If you're planning on taking your family to Catalina, it's recommended that you opt for a boat that's at least 23-26 feet long. This is because the waters can get pretty rough, so you'll want a vessel that can handle the conditions and keep your loved ones safe.
That being said, some boaters have made the trip in smaller boats, with some even venturing out in a 17-foot vessel. However, this is not recommended unless you're an experienced boater who knows the waters well.
If you're looking for a boat that can handle the trip to Catalina and provide a comfortable fishing experience for you and your family, there are a few brands you might want to consider. Arima, Striper, and Whaler all offer capable boats in the 17-foot to 21-foot range.
When choosing a boat for Catalina, it's important to prioritise safety and comfort. A cuddy cabin can provide extra protection from the elements and make the journey more enjoyable for you and your family. Additionally, make sure to carefully plan your trip and always check the weather conditions before setting out.
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18' boats
If you're planning a trip to Catalina, the size of the boat you'll need depends on the weather conditions and the number of people you're taking. For a family trip, it's recommended to have a boat that's at least 23-26 feet long. If you're looking for a boat for two people, an 18-foot Whaler Outrage could be a good option, although this may be pushing it to the limit. There are also some capable 17-foot, 19-foot and 21-foot boats available from brands like Arima, Striper and Whaler.
If you're an experienced boater, you might be able to get away with a smaller boat, but it's important to be careful and plan accordingly. The crossing to Catalina can be rough, with 5-foot swells, so it's not advisable to take a small boat if you're not confident in your abilities or the boat's capabilities.
Some people have attempted the crossing in very small boats, such as a 14-foot Jon boat with a 6hp outboard motor, but this is not recommended. Even a 19-foot open-bow boat with a V8 engine might be too small for a family trip, especially if you're not an experienced ocean boater.
When choosing a boat for Catalina, it's important to consider the comfort and safety of your passengers, as well as the weather conditions. It's always better to err on the side of caution and choose a larger, more capable boat.
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19' boats
If you're planning a trip to Catalina, the size of the boat you need will depend on the weather conditions and the number of people you're taking with you. For a family trip, it's recommended to have a boat that's at least 23-26 feet long. If you're going with your wife and kid, a boat that's 19 feet long should be fine, but if you want a cuddy cabin, you'll need something bigger.
Some people have made the trip to Catalina in smaller boats, such as a 17-foot Whaler Outrage or even a 14-foot Jon boat with a 6hp outboard motor. However, these trips can be challenging and may push your boat to its limits. The weather can also play a significant role in the difficulty of the crossing, so it's essential to plan accordingly and be careful.
If you're considering buying a 19-foot open-bow boat with a V8 engine, it's worth noting that this size boat may be too small for a family trip to Catalina, especially if you're not an experienced boater. The ferry to Catalina can be pretty rough, and you'll need to make sure your boat is in top shape and capable of handling ocean conditions.
Overall, while it is possible to make the trip to Catalina in a 19-foot boat, it may not be the most comfortable or safest option, especially if you're bringing your family along. A larger boat will provide more stability and comfort, making your trip more enjoyable and reducing the risk of encountering challenging conditions.
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24' boats
A 24-foot boat is a good size for a family trip to Catalina. This size is large enough to provide a comfortable trip for a family, although some people have made the trip in smaller boats. The weather is an important consideration when planning a trip to Catalina, as the crossing can be rough. It is recommended that you plan accordingly and be careful.
There are a variety of boat brands that offer 24-foot boats, including Arima, Striper, and Whaler. When choosing a boat for a trip to Catalina, it is important to consider the size and capabilities of the boat, as well as the experience level of the boater. For example, a 19-foot open bow boat with a V8 engine may be too small for a family trip to Catalina, especially if the boater is not very experienced.
Some people have reported taking smaller boats to Catalina, such as a 17-foot Whaler Outrage or a 17 1/2-foot Edgewater. However, these trips can be challenging and may push the limits of the boat and the boater. It is important to consider the safety of everyone on board when planning a trip to Catalina.
When choosing a boat for a family trip to Catalina, it is recommended to consider a cuddy cabin, which can provide more comfort and protection from the elements. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the boat is in top shape and that all necessary safety equipment is on board. By planning carefully and choosing the right boat, a family can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Catalina.
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Frequently asked questions
The smallest boat size to go to Catalina is 14'. However, some sources suggest that 17' or 18' is the smallest boat size for a safe trip.
For a family trip to Catalina, a boat size of 23-26' is recommended. Some sources suggest a minimum of 24'.
Recommended boat brands for a trip to Catalina include Arima, Striper, and Whaler.
For a trip to Catalina, a cuddy cabin boat is recommended.




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