MORGAN 38
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 37.67 ft |
| LWL | 28 ft |
| Beam | 11 ft |
| Draft | 8.33 ft/ 3.75 ft min |
| Displacement | 16,000 lb |
| Ballast | 7,500.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.1 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 45 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.7 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 38.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 16 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.7 ft |
| Mainsail | 663.4 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 330.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 562.3 sq ft |
About the MORGAN 38
Available as sloop or yawl. Not to be confused with a later series of Morgan 38 footers (introduced in 1978?).
Designed by Charles Morgan and built by Morgan Yachts (USA) between 1969 and 1971, the Morgan 38 is a robust heavy-displacement cruiser with a total production of 75 hulls. Its substantial 16000.0 lb displacement and 325.39 D/L ratio reflect a design philosophy prioritizing stability and seakeeping over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and safety in heavy weather, as well as those seeking a solid platform for long-term ownership despite the need for ongoing maintenance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.75 and a high comfort ratio of 32.82, the Morgan 38 is well-regarded for bluewater cruising, offering excellent stability and motion comfort in offshore conditions.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other heavy-displacement trawler-style yachts from the late 1960s and early 1970s, such as the Tartan 38 or O'Day 38, due to similar full keel designs and emphasis on passage-making capability over planing performance.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 37.67ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
11 reported issues across 6 systems for the MORGAN 38, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MORGAN 38? 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 11 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
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your MORGAN 38?
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Used sails that fit the MORGAN 38
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