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Catalina 142
Designer: Frank Butler  ·  First built: 1994
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About the Catalina 142

Built as a compact trailerable sailboat, the Catalina 142 represents an entry-level option in Catalina Yachts' diverse lineup of recreational sailing vessels. This small daysailer was designed to provide an accessible introduction to sailing while maintaining the build quality and thoughtful design characteristics that have made Catalina one of America's most recognized sailboat manufacturers. The boat's compact dimensions make it well-suited for protected waters, small lakes, and near-shore coastal sailing. Its trailerable design opens up opportunities for sailors who lack permanent marina access or want the flexibility to explore different sailing venues. The cockpit layout prioritizes simplicity and ease of handling, making it particularly appealing to new sailors learning the fundamentals of sail trim and boat handling. Like other boats in Catalina's entry-level range, the 142 likely features straightforward rigging and controls that reduce complexity without sacrificing sailing performance. The design emphasizes stability and forgiving handling characteristics over pure speed, creating a confidence-inspiring platform for skill development. While not intended for extended cruising or challenging offshore conditions, this model serves its purpose well as a stepping stone into the sailing world and weekend recreation boat for small crews.

Market Price Estimate Beta
Small sample size. This estimate is based on fewer than 5 listings and may not be representative of the true market. Use with caution.
$1,295 – $3,200
typical asking price
Median $1,500  ·  3 listings used
All listings
$1,295 – $3,200 3
Rate a listing price
$
About this estimate
  • Prices are based on recent asking prices from public listings — not actual sale prices, which are typically lower.
  • Condition is not factored in. A well-maintained boat with new sails and engine can be worth significantly more than a project boat of the same model.
  • Location affects price. Boats in landlocked states or areas with fewer buyers often sell for less than those on the coast.
  • Year of manufacture is not filtered. Older examples of this model will generally be priced lower than newer ones.
  • Included equipment varies widely. A boat with a full suite of electronics, dodger, and new standing rigging may command a large premium.
  • Outliers are automatically excluded using statistical filtering to improve accuracy, but some bad data may remain.
Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 14.17 ft / 4.32 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 13.00 ft / 3.96 m
Beam 6.00 ft / 1.83 m
Max Draft 1.75 ft / 0.53 m
Displacement 650 lb / 295 kg
Ballast 225 lb / 102 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 80 ft² / 7.43 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Centerboard
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Frank Butler
First Built 1994
Last Built 2004
Number Built 800
Owner Reviews

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Performance Ratios
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
 17.05
Ballast/Displacement Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
30–35% — Typical cruiser35–45% — Stiff performance boatOver 45% — Racing oriented
 34.62
Displacement/Length Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
 132.08
Comfort Ratio Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
 6.87
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
 2.77
Hull Speed Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions. 4.83 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 1.67 pounds/inch
Find a Catalina 142 For Sale
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