No Yoga Boats

[Time2Go]

Hi Friends,
After years of Sailing by Crewing
I am considering purchasing my own boat.
I'm RYA Coastal/Tidal certified with about 10,000 ocean miles
Having had a few orthopedic injuries over the years
I'm not real good at boat yoga.
Catalina 36's are appealing to me because of the engine access
and are about the size boat want (34-36')
What are other boats that have the same level of engine access?
Cruising grounds will be US east coast and Caribbean
Cheers
Neil

[markxengineerin]

Even without the engine, you still have the bilge, the through hulls, the deep storage lockers, the tanks, misc pumps and hoses, wire routing, etc. Not trying to rain on your parade, just a reminder of the engine being only one factor in the equation. Through hull access might be a bigger priority, as those adjustments are more frequent than oil changes or other engine maintenance. On my boat, I'm leaning into very un-ergonomic positions for the engine exhaust, head, and engine intake thru-hulls. The engine is relatively easy though (pacific seacraft 37).

[OldManMirage]

I think a Catalina 36 would be a fine boat for what you want to do, as long as you're not trying to pack too many people in there with you. I worked for a broker who carried Catalina's and I consider them fine boats as long as they are used as intended and well maintained. The 36 is nice and roomy and and sails great. Sure the tankage could be bigger but for what you want it'll be enough. I'd say go for it, you could do a lot worse.