Simplicity, trailerability, durability and the endearing and enduring qualities of the Catalina 22 helped to launch the trailer sailing market. Although many other designs have entered the fray, this pocket cruiser remains at the top of the mobile sailing heap. Designed by Frank Butler in 1969, the center board version of the Catalina 22 went into production in 1970 and has remained in production ever since. More than 16,000 have been built.

1973: the poptop was introduced to give sailors covered standing headroom while moored.

1974: Catalina Yachts introduced the fin-keel version, with the wing keel following 10 years later.

1985: the boat was restyled a bit with the introduction of the Mark II.

1995: For the boat's 25th anniversary, the designers have introduced the Mark III with a new interior.

With a user friendly cockpit, simple but workable interior, simple rigging and low upkeep, the boats are a natural for the first time boat buyer, or a step between a sailing dinghy and a larger cruising boat. In many cases, when owners move up to bigger boats, they keep their 22s to pass on to family members or to race in the one-design circuit. The Catalina 22 National Class Association is one of the strongest in sailing.

The Catalina 22 has defined the pocket-cruising trailerable class for the last 25 years. With stalwart sailing qualities, an exceptional builder, fanatic owner support and a strong class association, the boatís future is assured.