C 38, is/can it be a good ocean crosser

SimonV · #1 (**permalink**) 01-23-2007

Would this modle C38 1975-82 be sutible for ocean crossing if given greater water and fuel loads. good prices for a loy of boat. is it strong enough
Can it carry 100 ft chain and pick. any thougts ??????????????????

Jotun · #2 (**permalink**) 02-06-2007

I know someone who sailed to Bermuda in their C 36....

sailingfool · #3 (**permalink**) 02-06-2007

Hmmmmm...did they sail it back?

lindauer · #4 (**permalink**) 02-19-2008

Anything can cross an ocean onder the right conditions. You are going to have to decide how you are going to use the boat. Running the enging to charge the batteries for refridgeration, and autopilot, lights, navigation, radar... Make a list as to what is the most important to you, down to the least important, then put the list up next to the boat you are planning to do your trip in. I think it was Robert Mallery, from Cleveland, Ohio, back in the 60's, that crossed the Atlantic in a 12 foot boat named "Tinkerbell". Yes a Catalina will cross an ocean. Is it a better costal cruiser...possibily. How much modification is necessary to take a boat from one catagory to the other? I guess it all depends on your list. Good luck and watch the weather.

camaraderie · #5 (**permalink**) 02-20-2008

The C38 is not like other Catalinas. It can go to sea...may not be the ideal sea boat but the construction and design is good. It is a Sparkman & Stephens design that was originally selected as the design for the Congressional Cup boats..sho they are fast, good sailing boats of decent construction.

Faster · #6 (**permalink**) 02-20-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by SimonV

Would this modle C38 1975-82 be sutible for ocean crossing if given greater water and fuel loads. good prices for a loy of boat. is it strong enough
Can it carry 100 ft chain and pick. any thougts ??????????????????

Looking for a new boat already, Simon????

sailortjk1 · #7 (**permalink**) 02-20-2008

My guess is that this was originally posted when he was still searching; prior to his purchase.

Faster · #8 (**permalink**) 02-20-2008

D'Oh... MUST make a habit of checking the dates on post #1...

bestfriend · #9 (**permalink**) 02-20-2008

I hear a lot of good things about the pre '96 S&S design C38. What I am wondering is if the 380 carried the same hull design. Seems with the large aft berth, they must have changed it somewhat. Anyone know?

camaraderie · #10 (**permalink**) 02-21-2008

Here's the C38:
http://www.catalina38.org/specs/imag...churepage4.jpg

BIG difference on the new ones!!
cat.JPG