1993 Morgan 38 center cockpit

TQA · #1 (**permalink**) 07-09-2009

We looked at one of these yesterday and Carol just loved the layout. However I am a little concerned about it's sailing ability and durability.

We will be following the Thorny path from Florida out to the Windwards where we will cruise till I can no longer get it up. [ The mainsail of course!]

How does this boat sail?

I also am a little concerened about the engine which is a Westerbeke 38 B4 possibly based on a Mitsubishi engine. Are spares readily available if needed?

John and Carol

camaraderie · #2 (**permalink**) 07-09-2009

In my opinion this is the worst boat Catalina ever built. Lightly built, poorly fitted out. I think Practical Sailor slammed it pretty well during a review shortly after it was introduced. This was a boat entirely designed for weekend living in protected waters and is quite nice if that is your goal. Going to windward down the thorny path is a whole different kettle of fish. Note...this applies ONLY to the CC version...not the other Morgan 38' variants which came before and were aft cockpits.

Center cockpit is a GREAT way to go in a cruising boat...just not this one!
Look at Brewer/Whitby 42's, Tayana 42cc, and some of the older Euro CC designs.