The 2012 Catalina 355 is a versatile and popular coastal cruising sailboat known for its comfort, performance, safety features, and ease of handling. It was awarded "2011 - Cruising World - Boat of the Year: Domestic Boat" and "Midsize Cruiser".

Key Features & Design

The 2012 Catalina 355 incorporates several innovative features: 

• "StrikeZone" Collision Bulkhead: A watertight compartment forward of the anchor locker, filled with high-density foam, designed to increase safety in case of a collision.
• Spacious Interior: Features a two-cabin, one-head layout with 6'5" headroom, solid hardwood trim, and an open salon design. The forward owner's stateroom has an articulating, inner-spring mattress that can be electrically raised for reading.
• Large Cockpit: Designed for comfort with contoured coamings, long benches, raised helm seats for better visibility, and an insulated folding table.
• Ease of Handling: All sail controls are led aft to the cockpit, including the mainsheet traveler system and self-tailing winches, making it manageable for solo or short-handed sailing.
• High-Quality Systems: The boat has a well-designed electrical panel, three large water tanks that are removable through the companionway, and thoughtful access for engine and system maintenance. Reviewers praise the logical systems and attention to detail in the build. 

Reviews

Experts and owners generally praise the Catalina 355 for its balance of comfort and performance, ease of use, and innovative safety features. Reviewers found it performs well even in light winds and has a responsive helm. Owners appreciate the spacious "spa-style" head with a separate shower stall and the quality of the solid wood interior. The boat is often described as a great mid-sized cruiser suitable for coastal cruising and extended periods aboard.