MORGAN 36-5
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 36 ft |
| LWL | 29.41 ft |
| Beam | 11.83 ft |
| Draft | 6.67 ft |
| Displacement | 11,900 lb |
| Ballast | 3,999.6 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.3 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 48.42 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.33 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 42.33 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 12.7 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 637.2 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 346.9 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 589.8 sq ft |
About the MORGAN 36-5
E measurement (main boom length) reduced on later boats.
The Morgan 36-5 is a heavy-displacement coastal cruiser designed by Nelson/Marek and built by Morgan Yachts (USA) in 1985. With a displacement of 11900.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 21.82, it offers a stable, motion-dampened ride typical of the era's robust American production yachts.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and those prioritizing a comfortable, stable passage-making experience over high-speed performance. Its heavy displacement and moderate sail area make it well-suited for relaxed cruising rather than racing or aggressive single-handing.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.08 and a D/L ratio of 208.84, the Morgan 36-5 possesses the inherent stability and mass required for offshore passage-making, though its coastal cruiser pedigree suggests it is best suited for protected waters and moderate offshore conditions.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Morgan 36-4 and other late-1980s heavy-displacement American cruisers like the Cal 36 or O'Day 36. These vessels share similar hull forms, heavy ballast ratios, and a focus on interior volume and comfort over speed.
Direct variant of the MORGAN 36-5
Near-identical models — same hull, builder and designer, re-badged or lightly changed. Specs and owner-reported issues are typically shared across the group, so a sister model's page may carry detail this one doesn't.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 36ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
3 reported issues across 2 systems for the MORGAN 36-5, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MORGAN 36-5? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 3 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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