1984 Catalina 38

$24,900

Used

Boat in Deltaville, VA US

builtBuilt in 1984
Year the boat was built
model

38

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (1984 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
11.83ft
Fresh Water Tanks
100gal
Fuel Tanks
45gal
Holding Tanks
20gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
1984 Universal
Engine Model
M30
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Drive Type
direct
Accommodations
  • Private V berth 
  • Spacious quarter berth 
  • Convertible dinette 
  • Enclosed wet manual marine head 
  • Nav desk 
Galley
  • 2 burner CNG stove with oven 
  • U shaped galley 
  • Icebox 
  • Dry storage 
  • Double stainless steel sink 
  • Cabinet and drawer storage
Electronics
  • 1993 Autohelm 4000 autopilot 
  • 1984 Datamarine depthsounder 
  • 1984 Datamarine wind and speed indicator 
  • 1984 Datamarine speed and distance log 
  • 1984 Horizon VHF radio 
  • Flat screen TV
  • Salon speakers
Electrical
  • 4 batteries (2021) 
  • 70 Amp alternator 
  • Shore power outlet with cord 
Mechanical
  • 1 automatic bilge pump 
  • 1 manual bilge pump 
  • 1984 Universal M30 
  • Engine removed in 2002, reconditioned and engine area painted 
  • Edson wheel steering 
  • 3 blade prop 
  • PYI dripless shaft log (2002) 
Deck and Sails
  • Dodger and Bimini
  • 2 Lewmar 48 self tailing winches 
  • Hydraulic backstay adjuster 
  • Mainsheet traveler
  • Whisker pole 
  • Profurl R35 roller furler 
  • 2010 Dacron main sail (inspected and repaired 2021)
  • 2009 150% genoa (inspected and repaired 2021) 
  • Spinnaker
  • Danforth 26 lb anchor 
  • Cockpit cushions 
  • Cabin, navigation, spreader, and anchor lights
  • Double life lines 
  • Lifesling 
Upgrades and Maintenance
  • Hauled in 2021 
  • Replaced water pump, thermostat and radiator cap
  • Replaced heat exchanger with upgraded unit
  • Replaced raw water pump
  • Fabricated and installed new exhaust header from stainless steel pipe
  • Replaced alternator and drive belt
  • (2025) This year before launch Change oil and filter, Replace fuel filter and water separator filter
  • Replaced all 4 batteries
  • Remove fuel tank steam clean and reinstall tank
  • Disassembled all winches cleaned and inspected, replaced all paws and springs, greased and reassembled
  • Replaced forestay
  • Rebuilt profurl (new bearing holders and sleeves, new wrap stop, new joining torque link)
  • Washed and install new Sunbrella UV cover on head sail (Latell &Ailsworth Sailmakers)
  • General inspection and replace tell tales on main sail (Latell & Ailsworth Sailmakers)
  • General inspection, repair tear in canvas and replace clear window vinyl
  • Launched 2025 
Disclaimer
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

DateEventPrice
1/29/26Initial price$24,900

Overview from around the web 1984 Catalina 38

Customers appreciate the 1984 Catalina 38 for its solid construction, spacious interior, and excellent sailing performance

Many highlight its comfortable layout, making it suitable for both cruising and racing. Owners often praise the boat's stability and handling in various wind conditions, as well as its timeless design that combines functionality with classic aesthetics. Overall, the 1984 Catalina 38 is regarded as a reliable and versatile sailboat that delivers great value for sailors seeking a well-rounded vessel.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1984 Catalina 38 is a popular cruiser-racer sailboat known for its solid construction and versatile performance. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Sturdy Build: The Catalina 38 features a robust fiberglass hull with a reputation for durability and longevity.

Comfortable Interior: It offers a spacious and well-designed cabin layout, providing good headroom and ample storage for extended cruising.

Sailing Performance: With a moderate displacement and a well-balanced sail plan, the Catalina 38 performs well both upwind and off the wind, making it suitable for club racing and coastal cruising.

Ease of Handling: The rig and deck layout are designed for straightforward sail handling, often manageable by a small crew or even single-handed sailors.

Good Value: As a used boat, it often represents excellent value for sailors seeking a capable cruiser-racer without a premium price tag.

Cons

Aging Systems: Being a 1984 model, many boats may require updates or maintenance to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

Weight: While sturdy, the relatively heavy displacement can limit light-wind performance compared to more modern, lighter designs.

Interior Style: The interior design and finishes may feel dated compared to newer models, potentially requiring cosmetic upgrades.

Keel Depth: The draft of around 6.5 feet may restrict access to shallower cruising grounds.

Limited Factory Options: Some owners note that factory options and customization were limited, so upgrades might be necessary for specific cruising needs.

Made For

The 1984 Catalina 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and reliable performance cruiser. It appeals to those who want a comfortable and spacious boat for coastal cruising, weekend getaways, and club racing. Its balanced design makes it suitable for both experienced sailors looking for a responsive sailing experience and families or couples who value ample living space and ease of handling. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a cruising enthusiast, the Catalina 38 offers a blend of performance, comfort, and classic styling that suits a wide range of sailing adventures.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1984 Catalina 38. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Catalina cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$282.61/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 24,900
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1984 Catalina 38. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Catalina cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$282.61/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 24,900
OR
%

Contact Chesapeake Yacht Sales

18355 General Puller Highway, PO Box 388, Deltaville, VA, 23043

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Address

18355 General Puller Highway
PO Box 388
Deltaville, VA 23043

Boat Location

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