Catalina 42

To build more than 800 yachts of this size in 12 years is quite an achievement. She is one of the best-value large family cruisers around, with a clean, bright interior, plenty of space and a choice of four interior designs. Two, three and four-cabin layouts are available. In all versions the saloon and facing galley make the most of beamy midships sections and there are two heads. But the navigator may feel hard done by and there is limited stowage for larger crews. On the other hand, small crews need not feel intimidated by her size as she is comparatively easy to handle.

LOA 12.75m (41ft 10in), LWL 10.97m (36ft), beam 4.2m (13ft l0in), draught 1.83m (6ft), displacement 9,299kg (20,5001b). Price guide: £85,000 to £130,000. YM test report March 2005.