North American 40 Information, Review, Specs

Morgan Yachts, founded by Charles E. Morgan Jr., had already established itself as a significant force in American yacht building, particularly in fiberglass construction. During the period of the North American 40's production, Morgan Yachts was known for its diverse portfolio, transitioning from earlier performance-oriented CCA-rule designs to more volume-focused cruisers like the popular Out Island series, while still producing impactful racer-cruisers such as this model.

History and Design

The Morgan North American 40 was produced for a relatively short but impactful period, from 1978 to 1981, with approximately 45 units built. Designed by Dick Carter, a naval architect celebrated for his IOR designs, the North American 40 embodied the prevalent design philosophies of its era. The intention behind its creation was to establish an "Offshore one-design" class, ensuring that all boats were built with uniform weight and equipment for fair competition. This focus on consistency reflected the builder's commitment to quality and the designer's vision for a competitive racing platform.

As a "prototypical IOR boat of its era," the design of the North American 40, like many of Carter's creations, was optimized for the complex handicapping rules of the time. This often meant design characteristics that favored performance in specific conditions, frequently involving a hull shape that encouraged sailing with significant crew weight on the rail to maximize stability and speed. While Morgan Yachts was also building popular cruising designs during this period, the North American 40 represented a clear dedication to the performance segment of the market, showcasing the builder's versatility. There is no indication of significant variations or mark changes during its brief production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Morgan North American 40 exhibits sailing characteristics that reflect its IOR design heritage, balancing power with stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.41, she suggests good performance in lighter air, capable of responding well to subtle wind shifts. Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.452 indicates a high degree of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant amount of wind and maintain her canvas effectively, a desirable trait for a boat intended for offshore racing.

Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 238.11 places her firmly in the moderate displacement category, leaning towards a comfortable cruiser but still retaining characteristics of a performance boat. Owners have described the North American 40 as a "great boat with plenty of room and lots of power". This combination of moderate displacement, a powerful sail plan, and a stiff hull means the North American 40 is likely to offer a balanced helm and a predictable motion in various sea states, a characteristic often sought in boats designed for offshore passages. The deep fin keel and skeg-hung rudder further contribute to her directional stability and control.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications for the Morgan North American 40 are not extensively documented in broad public records, the typical layout of a Morgan of this size and era would generally feature a functional and robust arrangement. One source refers to a "standard Morgan layout down below", implying a proven and familiar configuration common to the builder's other models.

Interior descriptions, though scarce, mention "stunning wood flooring and white walls" in some examples, suggesting a classic aesthetic that can be either well-preserved or updated. Like many boats designed primarily for performance in the late 70s, the focus might have been more on functionality and robust construction suitable for offshore passages than on luxurious appointments. Expect a traditional layout with a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a salon with settees and a table, and a galley typically arranged for use at sea. Storage would likely be ample, and ventilation would rely on opening ports and overhead hatches. The overall finish would reflect Morgan Yachts' reputation for solid fiberglass construction, which prioritized durability.

Owner's Perspectives

Owner perspectives on the Morgan North American 40 often highlight its robust construction and sailing capabilities, though some discussions reveal considerations regarding its intended purpose. Owners frequently praise the boat for its solid build and the "terrific deck gear" that was standard on these IOR-bred vessels. The powerful sail plan and inherent stability are generally appreciated for their contribution to a satisfying sailing experience.

However, some owners or those considering the vessel for extensive offshore cruising have noted certain design compromises inherent to its IOR racing origins. For instance, the relatively small tankage for both fuel and water (27 gallons each) has been pointed out as a limitation for long-distance, self-sufficient voyages, leading some to question its suitability as a true "offshore" cruiser despite its name. There is a debate in owner forums about whether it serves better as a "luxury yacht" for coastal cruising rather than a vessel for serious ocean crossings. While generally well-regarded for its sailing prowess and solid construction, potential owners considering extended passages might factor in the need for additional tankage or water-making capabilities.