Introduction to the Chris Craft Catalina 24

The choice of a new boat can be a big step, and understanding what makes each model unique can help you find something that fits just right for your days on the water. The Chris Craft Catalina 24 is made for boaters who want something that covers a lot of needs—spending time with family and friends, taking short trips, or heading out on fishing adventures. Chris Craft is a company with a long tradition of building boats that combine classic design with modern features. With the Catalina 24, you get a center console boat that has a roomy, open deck layout and plenty of useful features. The design is simple and lets everyone move freely, and the equipment and comfort levels make it great for people new to boating and those who have lots of experience.

Details About the Hull, Size, and Dimensions

One thing that sets apart the Catalina 24 is its size and layout, which manages to be practical and comfortable without becoming too large or tough to handle. The Catalina 24 hull is 23 feet 8 inches long and 8 feet 3 inches wide, so it gives you space to bring friends and family without making it difficult to tow or launch. The dry weight of the Catalina 24 is around 5,400 pounds (depending on options and engine setup). Its fuel tank holds about 100 gallons of gas, and the water tank has a 9-gallon capacity. The hull uses a deep-V shape, which helps the boat cut through small waves and keeps the ride smoother during rougher water. The draft—how deep the boat sits in the water—is about 16 inches with the motor up, so you can head into shallow spots for swimming or exploring.

The Center Console Advantage

The center console design means the main control area is right in the middle of the boat, protected by a sturdy windshield and a stylish T-top that gives shade. You can walk all the way around the console from front to back, which helps with fishing, getting to beach anchors, or helping someone step off to a dock. There’s thoughtful space for storage inside the console, and the edges are rounded for safety as you move around. The steering and controls are on a comfortable dash, with easy-to-read displays and plenty of space to install modern electronics, such as GPS, depth finders, and radios.

Seating and Passenger Areas

The Catalina 24 is built to hold up to 10 people, making it useful for groups, family trips, or spending the day with friends. The bow area features U-shaped seating that’s padded and comes with a table option if you want to have lunch or play games on the water. Under-seat lockers at the front let you stow extra gear, such as lines, bumpers, or even snacks and towels. The aft (back) of the boat has a folding bench seat that can be flipped up for more fishing room or left down for more seating when cruising. There’s also a leaning post at the helm to give the driver and a friend a comfortable spot to stand or sit, especially on longer rides.

T-Top, Shade, and Weather Protection

A major convenience is the sturdy T-top made of powder-coated aluminum and canvas. It shades the central part of the boat, protecting the captain and passengers from direct sun during the hottest parts of the day. The top also holds speakers, dome lights, and grab rails for extra safety. You’ll find storage for life jackets overhead, and the T-top gives a secure place to install accessories like extra rod holders or outriggers.

Power Options and Technical Details

The outboard engine choice for the Catalina 24 usually comes from leading brands like Yamaha or Mercury, with available options from 250 horsepower up to 300 horsepower. These engines are chosen for reliability, easy servicing, and strong performance whether you’re planning a slow cruise or you like to move faster across open water. Drive-by-wire throttle controls come standard on newer models, along with digital switches and hydraulic steering, which means the boat is easy to drive and the controls respond quickly. Many boaters note how much smoother digital controls feel compared to older systems, with less chance of snagged cables or stiff throttle levers.

Fuel delivery and engine monitoring are visible from the console, so you never have to guess about your speed or fuel remaining. The Catalina 24 also supports twin battery setups with battery selectors. That way, you can keep navigation lights, stereo, and freshwater pump running without draining the starting battery. This feature is especially helpful for longer days out or if you anchor in a spot and want to listen to music while swimming.

Navigation, Electronics, and Entertainment

Modern Catalina 24 models have plenty of room on the dash for touchscreen GPS/chartplotters, fishfinders, and VHF radios. Wiring for these systems runs through waterproof channels. Some models offer built-in fusion stereos with Bluetooth, upgraded marine speakers, and amplifier options. USB charging ports and 12V power outlets are included in the dash, so it’s simple to keep phones and devices charged for taking pictures, playing music, or staying in touch.

Navigation lights, anchor lights, and deck lighting come standard, making it safer and easier to use the boat early in the morning or after sunset. Cup holders are found throughout the seating areas and helm for convenience, and storage cubbies at the helm help keep sunglasses, sunscreen, or keys close at hand. Ambient or courtesy lighting, often installed under the gunwales and T-top, gives the cockpit a pleasant glow for evening activities.

Fishing Features and Layout

The Chris Craft Catalina 24 is built with day fishing trips in mind and gives easy access to all sides for casting or working lines. The gunwales are high enough to offer a safe brace when fighting a fish, and multiple rod holders are installed in the gunwales, leaning post, and T-top for keeping outfits ready. The livewell, located in the transom, has a sealed lid and enough volume for bait or a small catch. Washdown hose connections, both raw and freshwater, help rinse off gear, coolers, or even sandy feet.

Under the bow seats, insulated lockers can double as fish boxes for storing your catch until you return to dock. The non-slip deck texture keeps footing secure, and stainless toe rails add bracing on rougher water. The anchor locker at the bow holds a full-sized anchor with heavy line or chain, making it easy to anchor in sandbars, bays, or near fishing reefs.

Comfort, Relaxation, and Day Use

This boat is not just for fishing or cruising—it’s meant to create a relaxing spot for family weekends, friend outings, or solo escapes. The seats throughout are made from thick foam with weather-resistant covers that hold up to sun, rain, and wet suits. The swim ladder attaches to the transom and folds out of the way when not in use, so swimmers can get back on board safely. Freshwater washdown points are included so people can rinse off after swimming.

When spending the day out, families appreciate the privacy compartment inside the center console, which is large enough for a portable toilet or as a changing space. The Catalina 24 can be equipped with an optional removable table in the bow for serving snacks, holding drinks, or playing card games. The cockpit “social zone” encourages people to talk, relax, and enjoy each other’s company, whether they’re out for a sunset ride or anchored at a local island.

Storage Solutions

Having enough storage can make any day on the water smoother and help keep the deck neat, reducing clutter and tripping hazards. The Catalina 24’s under-seat storage compartments at the bow and stern use easy-opening hatches with sturdy latches. These lockers are self-draining so water won’t collect inside them. The anchor locker can store anchor, rope, and chain up front. The leaning post has a cooler that fits underneath, and there’s dedicated space for removable coolers as well.

Pockets on the console sides are made for shoes, extra towels, or sunscreen, and there’s even stowage built into the back of the transom bench. The T-top overhead pouch is handy for things you want close but out of the way, like life jackets or hats. If you like to fish, the rod storage along the sides keeps rods secure during fast runs or rough water. Boarding ladders and tow points store neatly against the hull when not in use.

Construction, Quality, and Materials

The Chris Craft Catalina 24 uses hand-laid fiberglass for the hull and deck, which delivers good strength while keeping weight down. The stringer system beneath the deck is bonded and integrated into the hull, providing a quiet and stable feel on the water. The bow and gunwales are capped with stainless steel rubrails to resist scratches when docking. Stainless hardware—like the cleats, rod holders, and tow rails—resist corrosion and last for many years.

The foam-filled hull helps keep the boat afloat even if it picks up water and adds sound dampening for a quieter ride. The deck’s non-skid surfaces offer traction without holding in dirt, and the self-bailing cockpit drains any water out through scuppers. The upholstery uses marine-grade vinyl that can handle sun, rain, and saltwater without cracking, peeling, or fading quickly. All cushions snap out for cleaning or if you need more open room while fishing.

Operation and Driving Experience

First-time boaters and seasoned operators both agree that the Catalina 24 is easy to drive and maneuver. With a digital throttle and shift as standard, the engine responds smoothly when accelerating or reversing. Hydraulic steering makes turning the helm light and predictable, so there’s less fatigue during a full day out. The cockpit has wide, clear sightlines, and mirrors or cameras can be added for even better awareness around busy marinas.

Docking is made easy by the oversized cleats, durable rubrails, and the boat’s reliable handling at low speed. The deep-V hull reduces pounding, even if you hit rougher water heading back to port, and spray rails keep most water down so you and your guests stay dry. For families with children or pets, the high freeboard adds safety and gives peace of mind that everyone stays inside the boat.

Maintenance and Upkeep Basics

A big concern for many boat buyers is how much time they will spend cleaning and maintaining their boat. Chris Craft designed the Catalina 24 with easy upkeep in mind. The fiberglass hull and deck need only basic washing with soap and fresh water after each trip. Drains and scuppers in the cockpit make rinsing sand or debris out simple and fast. All compartments have liners that clean up quickly—no bare fiberglass or rough edges.

The outboard engine is easy to reach for checks or oil changes, and most owners can do daily maintenance like cleaning, flushing the motor, and checking fluids right at the dock or trailer. Wiring for electronics is routed in accessible channels, so if you add a radio, GPS, or new speakers, you do not have to disassemble the whole boat. Stainless steel hardware means you do not have to worry about rust or stuck parts after only a few seasons.

Safety, Security, and Family Use

Safety matters for every boat trip, especially for families or for groups with kids and older adults. The Catalina 24 is built with tall gunwales, strong handrails, and a flat deck for moving around without stepping over obstacles. Fire extinguishers, navigation lights, and horn come standard on new models. The high sides help protect kids and dogs from falling overboard, and the T-top supports add more grab points. The console lock keeps valuables, phones, or wallets safe when the boat is unattended, and there are lockers for life jackets or other safety equipment within easy reach.

The boat has spaces for emergency gear like a first aid kit, throw cushion, flares, and extra lines. A bilge pump is installed to handle any water that comes over the deck, and the engine’s kill switch, located at the helm, is easy to attach to the driver for extra security. The anchor and stern ladder are always accessible in case you want to stop for a swim or if someone needs to get back aboard fast.

Real-World Uses and Activities

One of the main reasons people like the Catalina 24 is the long list of things you can do with it. Some owners use it several times a week for quick afternoon cruises, while others trailer it to different lakes and the coast for vacations. It’s a popular choice for bay and near-shore fishing, letting you cast lines from all around the boat. On weekends, many families anchor at sandbars, set up the bow table, swim, and enjoy lunch—some even take their dogs along because of the open deck and easy ladder.

For water sports fans, the Catalina 24 tows tubes or wakeboarders with no trouble from the strong outboard. There is plenty of room for snorkeling or SCUBA gear, and the ladder, deck space, and rinse-off hose make bringing back shells or keeping things clean a quick job. If you want to try crabbing or lobstering, the storage and work areas around the stern provide lots of space to sort your catch.

Customization and Optional Upgrades

You can personalize your Chris Craft Catalina 24 with many options and accessories. Besides choosing your outboard engine brand and horsepower, Chris Craft offers custom hull gelcoat colors, accent stripes, and several configurations for upholstery and trim. Optional equipment includes a hardtop instead of a canvas T-top, extra rod holders, under-gunwale lighting, or upgraded marine stereos with subwoofers.

Electronics like large touchscreen displays, radar domes, weather stations, and even FLIR night vision can be added to the helm. If you want a windlass anchor system for easier anchoring, Chris Craft offers that as well as premium trailers fitted for the hull’s shape. Other upgrades can include teak accents for the sole or swim platform, a fresh water shower at the transom, or upgraded coolers for drinks and food.

Owners with special needs or activities, like SCUBA diving or long-distance day trips, customize storage and deck space with bins, racks, and other gear. The Catalina 24’s open layout makes it simple to add or move accessories based on the season or how you want to use the boat that day.

Owner Experiences and Community

Many Catalina 24 owners share stories of how they use their boats for everything from quick sunset rides to all-day fishing adventures. People report that the flexible seating and stable ride make it a favorite for bringing friends out for sandbar picnics or to watch fireworks from the water. Families with young children especially like the way the cockpit is laid out, making it easy to keep track of everyone and stow away gear out of the sun.

A common compliment is the reliable performance of the boat and engine, with little downtime or trouble as long as basic maintenance is done. Even first-time boat owners find the controls easy to learn, and the boat’s handling at slow speed helps make docking less stressful, even when wind or current pick up. Boating clubs and Chris Craft owner groups online share tips, event invites, and help for small upgrades or where to buy the best fenders or ropes.

Long-Term Durability and Value

The Catalina 24 is built for longevity, and many owners keep their boats for years, reporting very little wear even after many seasons. The hull is designed with a lifetime warranty (check with a team member for specifics), and the deck hardware, hinges, and latches are tested to endure regular use in all weather. Even the cushions and vinyls keep their color and resist cracking if basic care is taken—storing the cushions indoors when possible and rinsing salt water away after each trip.

Buyers who choose Chris Craft boats often note the solid value over time. The combination of a trusted hull, quality materials, and classic looks means the Catalina 24 remains popular, and used boats keep their appearance and function with simple annual cleaning. The self-bailing deck and draining lockers make winterizing, cleaning, or storage easy, and the boat fits on a standard trailer for moving between home and different launch ramps or marinas.

Comparison With Other Boats

When considering a new boat, many shoppers compare the Catalina 24 to other popular center console models in the 24-foot range. Some brands put more focus on fishing features or bigger swim decks, but the Catalina 24 stands out for its balance—it is just as comfortable for swimming and relaxing as it is for fishing trips. Many boats in this size use similar hull materials, but Chris Craft’s hand-finishing and extra stainless hardware give the Catalina 24 a solid feel and attention to detail.

The bow seating design, boarding process, and console layout make it easy for different guests—kids, friends, or grandparents—to enjoy the boat at the same time. The Catalina 24’s hull draft is shallower than some competitors, which means you can visit sandbars or beach areas that deeper boats can’t reach safely.

Practical Ownership Tips

Owning a Catalina 24 is simple, and a few tips can help you make the most out of your boat:

• Always rinse the hull and outboard with fresh water after use, especially after saltwater trips.
• Check battery voltage, fuel, and navigation lights before leaving the dock.
• Stow gear in the under-seat lockers and secure loose items to keep the deck clear.
• Rinse vinyl seats and decks with mild soap to avoid stains or sun fading.
• Bring a portable cooler for extra drinks or to extend your trips.
• Practice picking up and dropping anchor in shallow water to learn how the boat drifts.
• Try all seating options to find your favorite “spot” for relaxing or watching the sunset.

Seasonal and Year-Round Use

The Catalina 24 is designed for both warm and cooler climates. During the summer, open seating, shade from the T-top, and swim steps are perfect for beach trips and water sports. In cooler weather, clear windshields, wind-blocking canvas enclosures, and options for portable heaters keep everyone comfortable. The self-bailing deck makes it safe and easy to clean up rainwater or spray. Extra clothing or towels can be stored out of the way in the console locker.

Fishing happens spring through fall thanks to plenty of rod holders and convenient deck drains. The boat runs well in choppy or flat water, so it is a steady platform for both quick runs to barrier islands or all-day trips along the coast. Many owners find that adding a simple boat cover keeps maintenance even lower and reduces sun fading for vinyl and gelcoat.

Environmental Considerations

Outboard engines on the Catalina 24 are usually four-stroke models, which are quieter and cleaner than older two-strokes. Modern emissions controls mean less smoke and lower fuel use, even at higher speeds. The hull shape is efficient, helping to maximize range on a single tank—useful if your favorite spots are far from shore.

Because the boat is trailerable, you can store it at home between trips, which avoids the need for bottom paint and keeps hull growth to a minimum. Regular cleaning and responsible fueling help minimize mess, and many families report making a habit of picking up any trash or foreign objects they see while out enjoying their time on the water.

Community and Building Memories

One of the things most owners mention about the Catalina 24 is how easily it becomes the center of family outings, group events, or quick, quiet moments alone. The open bow is a good spot for watching birds, reading, or just resting with your feet up, while the deck space at the stern is ready for fishing or water toys. Kids enjoy swimming and jumping off the swim platform; adults find the shade and storage great for relaxing with friends.

Because of the Catalina 24’s flexible seating and stable ride, parents feel comfortable bringing even younger children along. The quality of construction means less time worrying about loose hardware or uncomfortable bumps, and more time focused on fun, food, and photos. Planning a day with an ice-packed cooler, picnic basket, sun hats, and games becomes a regular tradition for many owners.

Decision Factors for New Owners

Choosing the Chris Craft Catalina 24 makes sense if you value:

• Room for several people and gear
• Easy access to swimming, fishing, and anchoring spots
• Simple maintenance and upkeep
• Quality construction and long-term durability
• Stable and comfortable ride in different water conditions
• Safety features like grab rails, high sides, and good visibility

If you are new to boating, the digital controls and easy steering mean learning to operate the boat is less stressful. If you already have experience, you’ll appreciate the handling, storage, and smooth ride that the Catalina 24 offers.

The Buying Experience and What to Expect

When you decide to look more into the Chris Craft Catalina 24, you will find several options for engines, hull color, upholstery accents, and extra equipment (like electronics or a windlass). You can view models in person on land or in the water, and you’ll have a walk-through of all systems, controls, and gear before heading out on your first trip. All boats come with manufacturer’s warranties on the hull, engine, and electronics.

When you work with professionals, like the Fly Yachts team, you can ask about trailer options, delivery, registration, and other important steps to make your new boat ready for use as soon as possible. You may want to add fenders, ropes, extra safety equipment, or even schedule a guided trip to get comfortable with the boat and local waterways.

Conclusion: The Right Boat for Your Next Adventure

The Chris Craft Catalina 24 brings together space, reliability, easy handling, and a smart deck plan. For families, friends, and active people who want a simple but well-built boat, the Catalina 24 is an outstanding option. You can fish, relax, swim, or spend time with loved ones while knowing your boat is ready for each new outing. If you want to see one up close, learn more, or ask questions about this model, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. The Fly Yachts team has years of practical experience and clear advice to help you make the best choice for your time on the water.

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