1983 Catalina 38

$25,000

Used

Boat in Dana Point, CA 92629 US

builtBuilt in 1983
Year the boat was built
model

38

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Universal)

Engine type and count
length

38 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
38ft
Length Overall
38ft
Beam
11.75ft
Dry Weight
15900lb
Cabins
2
Fresh Water Tanks
40gal
Fuel Tanks
35gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
fin-keel
Engine 1
Engine Make
Universal
Engine Model
M-35
Total Power
35hp
Engine Type
Inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1983
Drive Type
direct
Propeller Material
bronze
Bimini
Bow Rail
Cleats Fixed
Cockpit Seating
Passenger Seat
Steering Wheel
Cabin Lighting
Cabinets
Dinette
Head
Ice Box
Port Holes
Stove / Oven
V Berth
Shore Power
Backstay
Boom
Chain Plates
Forestay
Lifelines
Mast
Running Rigging
Sheet Roller Cars
Sloop Rig
Standing Rigging
Winches Manual
Dodger
Main Sail
Roller Furling Jib
Bilge Pump
Holding Tank
Rudder
Throttle/shift: Mech
Water Tank
Compass
Vhf
Grab Rails
Bottom Paint Antifouling
Tagline
Priced to sell quickly! Swift sailor, well appointed, roomy interior, bottom painted about a year ago
Condition detail
1983 Catalina 38. The boat was used to take people out to learn how to sail and enjoy the ocean. The seller has owned the boat for about 15 years and has the bottom painted often. Please see all photos

Price History

DateEventPrice
11/20/25Price decreased$25,000(-13.8%)
10/8/25Price increased$29,000(+16.0%)
8/20/25Initial price$25,000

Overview from around the web 1983 Catalina 38

Customers praise the 1983 Catalina 38 for its solid construction and reliable sailing performance

Many appreciate its spacious and comfortable interior layout, which makes it well-suited for both cruising and longer voyages. Owners often highlight the boat's ease of handling, making it accessible for sailors of varying experience levels. Additionally, the Catalina 38 is noted for its classic design and good resale value, reflecting its enduring popularity in the sailing community. Overall, feedback emphasizes the blend of performance, comfort, and value that this model offers.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1983 Catalina 38 is a classic cruiser-racer sailboat that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and solid construction. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Solid Construction: Built with a robust fiberglass hull and quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.

Good Sailing Performance: Designed with a balanced sail plan and keel configuration that provides responsive handling and respectable speed.

Comfortable Interior: Offers a spacious layout for a 38-foot boat, including ample headroom, a well-equipped galley, and comfortable sleeping accommodations.

Versatile Design: Suitable for both club racing and cruising, making it a flexible choice for sailors.

Strong Community Support: Being a popular model, there is a good network of owners and resources available for maintenance and upgrades.

Cons

Aging Design: As a boat from 1983, some design elements and onboard systems may feel outdated compared to modern sailboats.

Maintenance Requirements: Older boats typically require more upkeep, including potential updates to rigging, electronics, and plumbing.

Weight: It may be heavier than newer designs, which can affect light-wind performance.

Limited Tankage: Fuel and water tanks may be smaller relative to newer cruising boats, potentially limiting long-range cruising without additional provisions.

Made For

The 1983 Catalina 38 is ideal for sailing enthusiasts seeking a versatile and comfortable cruiser-racer. It suits sailors who want a boat that performs well on the racecourse yet offers ample space and amenities for extended cruising. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a responsive and reliable vessel or a couple or small family wanting a capable boat for weekend adventures, the Catalina 38 provides a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and durability.

Contact Pop Yachts

5717 Bessie Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34233

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Address

5717 Bessie Drive
Sarasota, FL 34233

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