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370data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this MORGAN 38 (CATALINA) buyer’s report
MORGAN 38 (CATALINA)

MORGAN 38 (CATALINA)

Catalina YachtsπŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΈΒ· Design: Gerry Douglas
1993–2005
$2.1K – $5.5K est. annual maintenance
Offshore CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA38.42 ft
LWL32.42 ft
Beam12.33 ft
Draft6.5 ft
Displacement17,500 lb
Ballast6,800.5 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL7.6 kn

About the MORGAN 38 (CATALINA)

Last built date includes the Morgan 381 (AKA 38 MKII) Standard keel was the deeper fin keel. Available with optional wing keel: Draft: 5 ft

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Gerry Douglas and built by Catalina Yachts (USA) from 1993–2005, the Morgan 38 is a robust coastal cruiser known for its solid construction and comfortable interior. While the exact hull count is unspecified, the fleet benefits from a high volume of owner-reported upgrades, particularly in sails and electronics, reflecting its enduring popularity.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, stable platform for family sailing, as evidenced by the high frequency of dodger and bimini installations for weather protection. It is also well-suited for owners willing to perform maintenance, given the prevalence of engine and electronics upgrades.
Bluewater capability:
With a displacement of 17500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.9, the boat offers moderate offshore stability, though critical issues like deck core moisture and rudder shaft problems require rigorous inspection before considering extended bluewater passages.
Comparables:
Comparable to other 1990s-2000s American production cruisers like the Catalina 38 or Beneteau 373, it shares similar dimensions and a focus on interior volume over extreme performance. Its masthead sloop rig and fin keel configuration align it with traditional cruising designs of that era.

Performance

Comfort27.9
Capsize1.90
SA/Disp16.7
Disp/Len229
Bal/Disp38.9

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the MORGAN 38 (CATALINA) yet. If you own one, help other buyers β€” what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 38.42ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$2.1K – $5.5K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Articles & Reviews

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

17 reported issues across 9 systems for the MORGAN 38 (CATALINA), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

6 critical3 major8 minor
Rigging3Structural3Deck2Rudder2Hull2Engine2Keel1Electrical1Plumbing1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a MORGAN 38 (CATALINA)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • βœ“ All 17 specific issues β€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • βœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • βœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor β€” yours to keep

One-time $2.99 Β· secure checkout by Stripe Β· instant access Β· 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your MORGAN 38 (CATALINA)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us β€” as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Universal, Perkins β€” is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines β†’ to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the MORGAN 38 (CATALINA)

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…