Catalina (Morgan) 50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The lineage of the Catalina (Morgan) 50 traces back to Catalina Yachts' strategic acquisition of Morgan Yachts in May 1984. This pivotal move established the Morgan Division in Largo, Florida, which became instrumental in specializing in cruising and charter boats, while also manufacturing many Catalina models on the East Coast. The Catalina (Morgan) 50, specifically, began its production run in 2001, building upon this legacy.

Designed by Bob Perry, the Catalina (Morgan) 50 was conceived with the primary goal of blending comfort with respectable speed, explicitly targeting the charter trade. Catalina's overarching manufacturing ethos during this era, championed by founder Frank Butler, emphasized creating "good boats" that offered "price for value" through solid and honest construction, a principle deeply embedded in the design of the 50-footer. The company's robust five-piece construction method, incorporating a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner, ensures durability and a common-sense approach to boat building.

The Catalina (Morgan) 50 was offered with notable variations to suit different sailing preferences. While the standard configuration featured a wing keel with a maximum draft of 5.58 feet, a deeper keel option was also available, drawing 8.0 feet (2.44m). Furthermore, a "Tall Rig" option was offered, providing a larger sail plan with an I-measurement of 69.50 feet, a J-measurement of 20.50 feet, a P-measurement of 63.83 feet, and an E-measurement of 18.50 feet, indicating enhanced performance potential in lighter conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total calculated sail area of approximately 1108 square feet and a displacement of 36,000 pounds, the Catalina (Morgan) 50 exhibits a sail area to displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.03. This ratio suggests that the vessel is adequately powered for a comfortable cruising experience, offering moderate performance in lighter winds and coming into its own as the breeze freshens. It is not designed as a pure light-air performer, but rather as a steady, reliable cruiser.

The boat's ballast of 13,250 pounds contributes to a ballast to displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.368. While not exceptionally high, this ratio indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the Catalina (Morgan) 50 to stand up to a good amount of wind without excessive heel, a desirable trait for a cruising or charter boat.

A significant characteristic of the Catalina (Morgan) 50 is its displacement to length (D/L) ratio, calculated to be around 416. This high number places the vessel firmly in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser. This substantial displacement, combined with a conservative and sea-kindly hull form, translates into a comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability and easy handling over blistering speed. Owners can expect predictable handling characteristics and a reassuring feel, even in challenging conditions. The fiberglass hull material also contributes to minimal maintenance requirements during the sailing season.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed largely for comfort and charter functionality, the interior layout of the Catalina (Morgan) 50 is exceptionally spacious, reflecting its generous length overall of just over 50 feet and a beam of 14.75 feet. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently documented, vessels of this size from Catalina are generally known for ample standing room, a key consideration for extended living aboard.

The design typically features multiple staterooms and heads, accommodating several guests or a large family, which is paramount for its role in the charter industry. Common arrangements include a large forward double berth, expansive salon, a well-equipped galley, and multiple private cabins, often with en-suite or adjacent heads. The focus is on providing comfortable living spaces, ample storage for provisions and gear, and good ventilation. In line with Catalina's reputation, the interior finish would likely feature a practical blend of molded fiberglass components for durability and ease of maintenance, complemented by wood trim to provide a warm and traditional aesthetic, a hallmark of American craftsmanship.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Catalina and Morgan yachts frequently praise their solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and overall value. While specific owner reviews for the Catalina (Morgan) 50 focusing on common problems are not widely documented, the broader Catalina/Morgan community generally highlights the brand's commitment to building robust vessels that offer a practical and enjoyable sailing experience. As with any large yacht, potential owners would typically consider factors such as the condition of original deck fittings and the maintenance history of engine and systems, though no recurring, model-specific widespread issues are prominently reported. The strong community of Catalina owners, supported by publications like Mainsheet Magazine and numerous model-specific associations, contributes to a rich ownership experience.