Morgan 38 (Catalina) Information, Review, Specs

The Morgan 38 emerged following Catalina Yachts' acquisition of Morgan Yachts in 1984, with Catalina's Morgan Division introducing the new design in November 1992. The production run for the Morgan 38 spanned from 1993 to 2005, including the later "Morgan 381" or "38 MKII" designation. This lineage underscores Catalina's philosophy, championed by founder Frank Butler, of building "good boats" that are "straightforward, offer price for value, are solid and honest." The design goals for the Morgan 38 were to exceed typical performance and handling requirements while maintaining the spacious and comfortable interiors characteristic of Catalina vessels.

During its production, the Morgan 38 saw variations, notably the availability of an optional shallower wing keel with a draft of 5 feet, alongside the standard deeper fin keel. The later Morgan 381 (MKII) often featured the winged keel as standard. Many of these models were also built with a center cockpit configuration, which influences both deck layout and interior volume.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Catalina Morgan 38, with a displacement of 17,500 lbs and a waterline length of 32.42 feet, positions itself as a capable mid-displacement cruiser. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.6 indicates a moderate performer, suggesting good pace in moderate breezes without being overly aggressive in light air. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 39% (6,800 lbs of ballast for 17,500 lbs displacement), the Morgan 38 exhibits solid stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up well to a decent amount of wind. The displacement to length ratio of around 229 places it firmly in the category of a comfortable cruising boat, designed for smooth motion rather than high-performance racing.

Owners and reviewers frequently note the Morgan 38's good sailing performance and handling characteristics, making it suitable for its intended role as a coastal cruiser. Despite some being center cockpit configurations, visibility and windage are generally not reported as significant issues compared to other aft cockpit designs. The boat is praised for its maneuverability, contributing to a positive sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Catalina Morgan 38 is a hallmark of its design, described as a skillful blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary space planning, resulting in a light and airy ambiance. The vessel boasts a generous 6 feet 5 inches of headroom, contributing significantly to its spacious feel below deck. The interior layout is often characterized as practical, providing ample living space for cruisers. Many iterations of the Morgan 38 feature a center cockpit, which typically allows for a very large and private aft cabin, a highly sought-after feature in cruising boats.

Information from owner reviews and sales listings suggests a typical arrangement including a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dinette, a well-equipped galley, and usually a spacious aft cabin. The design includes numerous opening hatches, ensuring excellent ventilation throughout the interior, which is crucial for comfort, particularly in warmer climates. The overall finish quality aligns with Catalina's reputation for practical and durable construction, often featuring robust fiberglass components and comfortable accommodations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina Morgan 38 generally praise the vessel for its solid construction, comfortable motion, and good sailing performance. The design is consistently highlighted as a quality coastal cruiser that performs well under sail. The practical layout, especially the spacious interior with good headroom, is frequently appreciated by those living aboard or undertaking extended cruises. The later Morgan 381 (MKII) variant even earned the "Boat of the Year" award from Cruising World Magazine in 1997, further attesting to its positive reception. The active community around these boats, evidenced by dedicated owner forums, suggests a high level of satisfaction and support among enthusiasts. While common issues are often discussed on forums, specific "fatal flaws" are not widely reported for the Catalina-built Morgan 38, particularly differentiating it from some earlier Morgan models before Catalina's acquisition.