After 18 years without a sailboat, we decided to drive up to Vancouver Island during the 2014 Christmas holiday season and take a look at a 2002 Catalina 470 for sale. Turned out we loved her, decided to make an offer, and about three weeks later we were the proud new owners.
First Light is the tall rig / deep keel version which is the right choice for where we cruise. Light air is the norm, so the extra sail area is good to have, although on the Columbia River we need to always keep in mind our 7′-10″ draft. She sails great, has everything we need for comfortable cruising and is stiff and seaworthy on the ocean.
We love the aft owner’s stateroom and the forward cabin with separate head & shower works out great for when we have guests.
Overall, we are incredibly happy with the boat and are planning to keep her till we retire from sailing.
LOA: 47′-8″
LWL: 42′-0″
BEAM: 14′-0″
DRAFT: 7′-10″
AIR DRAFT: 67′-9″
BALLAST: 8,800 lbs.
DISPLACEMENT EMPTY: 27,000 lbs.
HEADROOM (MAX): 7′-6″
DIESEL ENGINE: Yanmar 4JE3-TE 75 h.p.
SAIL AREA (Tall Rig): 1107 sq. ft.
FRESHWATER: 214 gal.
FUEL: 88 gal.
Sailing First Light 