1982 Catalina 38
$44,900
Boat in Fairhaven, MA 02719 US
38
1 Engine (Universal)
38 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
A Catalina 38 with the heritage from one of the most influential designers in the past century. Sparkman and Stephens have changed the way yacht designers approach fast stable and sea kindly boats. They created the fastest racers (America's Cup) , they created offshore lengendary accpmplishments (Stormy Weather, Bolero, Finnistierre...) and in the early 80's they created the Catalina 38. Similar in design to the Yankee 38 but much more popular.
Cat Nap has been extremely well cared for, she is meticulously clean, and had the proper updates to keep going for many years to come.
Sails:
-All serviced annually by Sperry Sails
Main : Sperry 2015 - Excellent shape
135: Sperry 2015 - low cut
135: Doyle - Good shape, high cut - not sure year
105: Doyle - Excellent shape (used mostly the last couple seasons)
Spinnaker: UK - Tape Drive - older 20 plus years, lightly used
Mainsail Cover: Sperry 2017 - Excellent shape
Dodger: Sperry 2024 - Excellent shape
Rigging:
Standing rigging replaced 2020
Navtec Hydraulic backstay - 2020, rebuilt 2025
Running rigging - replaced 2025
Spinaker pole
Adjustable Forespar whisker pole 2025
Electronics:
Garmin GPS Map 1242 XSV Chartplotter
Garmin GMR Fantom 18X Dome Radar (Scanstrut self leveling mount on mast)
Garmin VHF 215 Radio
Garmin AIS 800 Blackbox transmitter
Garmin GHS Remote VHF handset mounted at pedestal
MS- RA210 Marine Stereo (Jensen speakers in cockpit), speakers also in cabin
Garmin GMI Wind/Speed/Depth
(These were all installed 2025)
Circuit Breaker Panel 2023
Interior:
Cushions 2020 - Excellent condition
CNG Oven/2 burner stove (CNG tank mounted in cockpit lazarette in stern)
Port bulkhead replaced 2024
Water Heater Raritan 6 gallon 2025
Imtra LED Cabin lights
Custom dining table with adjustable pedestal
Battery charger 2023
Steering:
Edson Avalon Steering Pedestal 2025
Dual Engine Controls
Wire & Chain replaced 2023
Steering quadrant & Pulleys replaced 2025
Ritchie F-82 Voyager flush mount compass
Edson pedestal mounted table
Rudder dropped 2025 and rudder tube epoxied to remove play in shaft, rudder washers
replaced (2)
Rudder shaft packing replaced 2025
Engine:
Universal 5424 diesel
Unk Hours but excellent condition
Serviced annually
Primary and secondary fuel filters
Feathering propellor
Engine stringers repaired and new engine mounts 2019
Exhaust elbow replaced approx 10 years ago
Heat Exchanger replaced approx 5 years ago
Miscellaneous
Fenders, lines
Life jackets
anchor and rode
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/22/26 | Initial price | $44,900 |
1982 Catalina 38 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1982 Catalina 38
Customers consistently praise the 1982 Catalina 38 for its solid construction and reliable performance
Many appreciate its spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for both cruising and extended voyages. The boat’s handling is often described as balanced and responsive, providing confidence in a variety of sea conditions. Owners also highlight the ample storage and well-thought-out layout, which enhance the overall sailing experience. Overall, the 1982 Catalina 38 is valued for its blend of durability, comfort, and ease of handling.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1982 Catalina 38 is a classic cruiser-racer sailboat that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and traditional design. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Solid Construction: Built with a robust fiberglass hull and quality craftsmanship, the Catalina 38 is known for its durability and longevity.
Balanced Performance: Designed by Frank Butler and the renowned Sparkman & Stephens team, it offers a good balance between cruising comfort and racing capability.
Spacious Interior: For a 38-foot boat, the interior layout is well thought out, providing comfortable accommodations for extended trips, including a roomy salon and practical galley.
Easy Handling: The sail plan and rigging make it manageable for short-handed sailing, appealing to both casual cruisers and more competitive sailors.
Good Resale Value: Due to its reputation and build quality, the Catalina 38 tends to hold its value well in the used boat market.
Cons
Older Design Features: As a boat designed in the early 1980s, some aspects of the design and onboard systems may feel dated compared to more modern sailboats.
Weight: It’s relatively heavy for its size, which can affect light wind performance.
Limited Headroom: While comfortable, the cabin headroom may be less generous than more contemporary 38-foot cruisers.
Maintenance: Older boats require ongoing maintenance, and potential buyers should be prepared for possible updates to rigging, electronics, and plumbing systems.
Made For
The 1982 Catalina 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and reliable cruiser-racer. It suits those who want a comfortable boat for family cruising while still offering the performance and handling characteristics that appeal to competitive racers. Whether you're a seasoned sailor looking for a well-balanced vessel or a cruising enthusiast eager to explore coastal waters with ease, the Catalina 38 provides a perfect blend of speed, stability, and onboard comfort.
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Address
Boat Location
Contact Mattapoisett Yacht Sales about 1982 Catalina 38
32 Neds Point Road, Mattapoisett, MA, 02739


















