Catalina Morgan 43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Catalina Morgan 43 begins shortly after Catalina Yachts acquired Morgan Yachts in 1984. This acquisition marked a new chapter for the Morgan brand, with Catalina continuing the production of certain Morgan models, often integrating their own design philosophies. The Catalina Morgan 43, with a production start year of 1985, was a product of this era. Its design is attributed to the renowned naval architecture firm Nelson Marek. While Charles Morgan Jr. was the visionary behind many of the original Morgan designs, the Catalina Morgan 43 reflects the design direction taken under Catalina's ownership, aiming for a balance of cruising comfort and robust construction.

The Catalina Morgan 43 was developed with the clear goal of providing a stable and spacious platform, particularly suited for blue-water cruising. While the specific designer philosophy for this model emphasizes a blend of comfort and seaworthiness, the era of its creation saw a general shift towards more voluminous cruising yachts. Notably, a shoal draft version of the Morgan 43 was also offered, featuring a reduced draft of 5.0 feet, providing greater access to shallower anchorages. The model also saw an evolution, with mentions of it being similar to the Morgan 44, suggesting a continuous refinement or updated version in the late 1980s.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 23,500 pounds and a length overall of 43 feet, the Catalina Morgan 43 is characterized as a heavy displacement cruiser. This is reinforced by its Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 238, indicating a boat designed for comfort and stability rather than outright speed. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of about 15.5 suggests that the Catalina Morgan 43 is not heavily canvassed. While this might lead to slower performance in very light airs, it translates to a more manageable and comfortable ride when the wind picks up, making her a "dream to handle in a gale".

The Ballast to Displacement ratio, approximately 0.35, is moderate, contributing to the boat's stability. Owners have praised the Catalina Morgan 43 as a "surprisingly good sailing boat for being a big heavy boat". Its robust hull and moderate rig allow it to stand up to a breeze well, offering a comfortable motion, especially beneficial for coastal cruising and longer passages. The skeg-hung rudder further enhances directional stability and provides protection for the rudder itself, a desirable feature for blue-water vessels.

Accommodations and Layout

The Catalina Morgan 43 excels in providing generous accommodations, a hallmark of its design as a liveaboard and cruising platform. The center-cockpit configuration is a key feature, allowing for a spacious aft cabin and a walk-through interior. The layout typically includes a large aft owner's stateroom, often described as a "great Captains aft cabin, with good storage". This aft cabin is accessed via a walk-through that may feature a large work counter, indicating the emphasis on functionality and living space.

While specific details on the maximum headroom were not provided, the general design focus on interior volume suggests comfortable standing room throughout much of the cabin. The interior often features a traditional layout with a V-berth forward, a main salon, and a galley, all designed for comfort during extended periods aboard. The robust fiberglass solid hull and deck construction contribute to a solid feel below decks. Owners frequently highlight its suitability as a "great liveaboard", underscoring the success of its interior design in providing a comfortable and functional living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina Morgan 43 consistently praise its attributes as a capable and comfortable cruising yacht. Many appreciate its suitability as a liveaboard vessel, citing the spacious interior and robust build quality. The center-cockpit design, in particular, is often highlighted for providing a private and expansive aft cabin. The boat's sturdy construction is a frequently mentioned strength, reflecting the durable build standards of the era.

However, as with any vessel of its vintage, some common considerations and maintenance points have been noted by owners. The original Perkins 4-108 engine, while reliable, may require parts or even replacement after many years of service, with some owners opting for engine upgrades. Overall, the consensus among owners is that the Catalina Morgan 43, despite being a heavy boat, offers surprisingly good sailing characteristics and provides a comfortable, secure platform for extended time on the water.