MORGAN 45-4
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 45.33 ft |
| LWL | 36.75 ft |
| Beam | 13.42 ft |
| Draft | 7.92 ft |
| Displacement | 22,500 lb |
| Ballast | 9,949.5 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.1 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 60.7 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 18 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 54 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 16 ft |
| FLforestay | 18 ft |
| Mainsail | 933.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 505.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 859.9 sq ft |
About the MORGAN 45-4
Shoal draft and keel/cb versions available. Keel/cb version draft: 4.9' - 7.42'. 'Racing' version: Disp.:2100 lbs. In the used boat market, sometimes referred to as MORGAN 454, NELSON-MAREK 454, etc. Morgan model names in this size range are especially confusing and inconsistent. (This model was also advertised as the MORGAN 46, even though there was another of the same name, a cruising ketch, designed by Henry Scheel and also built by Morgan Yachts.) This design was 'recycled' into a number of other models including a center cockpit version, MORGAN 43 (1985). After the demise of Morgan Yachts, a later, significantly modified version was built by Catalina Yachts.
The Morgan 45-4 is a heavy-displacement cruising sloop designed by Nelson/Marek and built by Morgan Yachts (USA) in 1983. With a displacement of 22500.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 27.84, it exemplifies the robust, motion-comfortable design philosophy typical of the era's serious bluewater cruisers.
- Best for:
- This vessel is best suited for experienced coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize sea-keeping ability and interior volume over high-speed performance. Its heavy displacement and fin keel make it ideal for those seeking a stable, comfortable passage-making boat rather than a racer-cruiser.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.91 and a D/L ratio of 202.38, the Morgan 45-4 demonstrates strong inherent stability and resistance to capsizing, making it well-suited for extended offshore passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hallberg-Rassy 43 and the Tartan 4200, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and offshore-oriented hull forms from the early 1980s. These vessels are comparable due to their focus on durability, safety, and comfortable motion in heavy weather.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
9 listings · boat years 1979–1989 · median $68,000
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 45.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the MORGAN 45-4, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MORGAN 45-4? 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 2 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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