Catalina 387 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Catalina 387 is characterized by a high-aspect masthead sloop rig and a hull form that carries significant beam well aft to provide stability and interior volume. According to technical assessments by Cruising World, the boat was designed with a relatively high Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio for its class, allowing it to perform respectably in light to moderate air despite its 19,000-pound displacement. It was typically offered with two keel configurations: a deep fin for maximum lift and pointing ability, and a wing keel for cruisers in shallower waters like the Chesapeake or the Bahamas.

Under sail, the boat is known for its "stiff" behavior, thanks in part to its 6,800-pound lead keel (a significant upgrade over the iron keels found on many European competitors). Handling is managed through a large-diameter destroyer wheel, which provides sufficient leverage to manage the balanced spade rudder. While the 387 is not a light-air racer, it tracks well and exhibits a predictable motion in a seaway. The inclusion of a large, mid-boom traveler on the cabin top keeps the cockpit clear of lines while allowing for precise mainsail trimming, a feature often noted in Sail Magazine’s editorial reviews as a major safety and convenience factor.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Catalina 387 is where the model arguably offers the most value, utilizing its 12' 4" beam to create an open, airy living space. The layout typically features two private cabins: a forward V-berth with ample standing room and a massive aft cabin tucked under the cockpit. The aft cabin is a particular highlight, featuring a large double berth oriented athwartships, which provides more headroom and a less claustrophobic feel than traditional "crawl-in" aft berths.

The main salon is centered around a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, with a high-gloss teak finish throughout. A notable variation in the 387 compared to its predecessor, the 380, is the improved galley design. It features a deep, double stainless steel sink, a three-burner LPG stove, and a front-and-top-loading refrigerator/freezer that is exceptionally large for a 38-foot boat. The head includes a dedicated stall shower with a folding door, a luxury usually reserved for vessels over 40 feet. Throughout the production run, Catalina maintained a consistent layout, though later hulls often featured updated electronics packages and lighting fixtures.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Catalina 387 has maintained a quiet but steady presence in the cruising media as a benchmark for the "American-style" production cruiser. It was frequently compared in head-to-head reviews against the Hunter 38 and Beneteau 373 during its peak production years. Its reputation as a "roomy" cruiser has made it a favorite for long-term liveaboards in the Pacific Northwest and the Florida Keys, often appearing in YouTube cruising logs and blogs focused on "attainable" boat ownership.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the 387 is a robustly built vessel, prospective buyers should focus on several specific areas during a survey:

• Fixed Portlight Seals: The 387 features large, sleek side windows. Over time, the sealant on these fixed ports can degrade, leading to leaks that may damage the teak cabinetry below. Inspect for water staining around the salon settees.
• Compression Post Base: Though less common on the 387 than on earlier 1980s models, it is vital to check the base of the mast compression post for any signs of moisture or settlement in the structural grid.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: On high-hour or charter-used boats, the upper and lower rudder bearings can develop "slop." This is felt as a vibration or "clunk" in the steering wheel when under power or in a following sea.
• In-Mast Furling Maintenance: Many 387s were equipped with in-mast furling. If the furling line is old or the mast is not properly pre-bended, the sail can jam. Ensure the furling mechanism is serviced and the mainsail is not "blown out" (stretched), which contributes to jamming.
• Chainplate Inspection: As with any masthead sloop, the stainless steel chainplates where they pass through the deck should be inspected for crevice corrosion or signs of deck core moisture.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 387 benefit from one of the most organized support networks in the maritime world. The Catalina 387 International Association provides a dedicated forum and technical wiki for owners to share DIY repairs and upgrades. Additionally, because Catalina uses standardized parts across many of its models, the Catalina Yachts factory in Florida remains a primary resource for replacement parts, which is a rarity for out-of-production models from other builders.

The Verdict

The Catalina 387 is an ideal vessel for the cruising couple or small family who prioritizes interior volume and cockpit ergonomics over raw racing speed. It is a "forgiving" boat that handles blue-water coastal hops with confidence.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its length.
• Lead keel provides superior stability and safety compared to iron.
• Stall shower and massive galley make it a viable long-term liveaboard.
• Strong resale value and excellent factory parts support.

Cons:

• High freeboard can make it prone to windage when docking in crosswinds.
• The large cockpit can feel exposed in true heavy-weather offshore conditions.
• Not as agile or fast as more performance-oriented 38-footers.