Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
"Just months after being purchased by Michael Reardon of Daedalus Yachts, Catalina Yachts has announced that they will cease production. The company cites “short-term financial challenges” for the reason and intends to return to building boats in the future. Significant concerns raised by employees suggest that major changes will be necessary."
I question if it was really financial problems as, from what I have heard, sales were reasonably strong. I fear another private equity firm overpaid and is cutting bait.
Frank Butler must be spinning in his grave!!!!!!
Peter Bigelow PO - C-25 TR/FK #2092 Limerick Rowayton, Ct Port Captain: Rowayton/Norwalk/Darien CT
Just got that, too. Startling! I had long thought of Catalina as the most solid producer this side of the pond, with such a strong reputation quality, design, and overall value. I guess there just isn't room on their transoms for the three 350 hp outboards everyone wants. (Even Hinckley is making the shift.)
Dave Bristle Association "Port Captain" for Mystic/Stonington CT PO of 1985 C-25 SR/FK #5032 Passage before going over to the Dark Side (2007-2025); now boatless for the first time since 1970 (on a Sunfish).
More news: On April 30, Daedalus Yachts founder Michael Reardon announced that he and his company had acquired Catalina Yachts, but issues behind the scenes have now become public. After disgruntled employees of Catalina Yachts began sharing news on social media of missed payrolls and cancelled health insurance, Catalina Yachts President Patrick Turner released this statement:
"I want to share an important update directly with those who matter most to this company — our owners, future owners, and the broader sailing community that has supported Catalina for more than 50 years.
We have initiated a temporary production pause while we reorganize key areas of our operation. Like many manufacturers in today’s environment, we are navigating short-term financial challenges. Rather than pushing ahead in a way that could compromise quality or consistency, we have chosen to take a responsible pause while we finalize the support needed to move forward stronger.
This decision reflects our commitment to Catalina’s long-term health — not just the next boat out of the factory, but the thousands that already exist and the many more still to come."
Peter Bigelow PO - C-25 TR/FK #2092 Limerick Rowayton, Ct Port Captain: Rowayton/Norwalk/Darien CT
So, if I were considering a Catalina, Beneatau, Jeaneaua, or other boat I would, with this information, stay clear of Catalina. I do feel sorry for the dealers!
Peter Bigelow PO - C-25 TR/FK #2092 Limerick Rowayton, Ct Port Captain: Rowayton/Norwalk/Darien CT
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.