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Sailboat Specifications

Morgan 42 1

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Charles Morgan · Built by Morgan Yachts (Usa) · First built 1968

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LOA 42.00 ft  ·  Beam 11.50 ft  ·  Displacement 19,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 789.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Morgan 42 1 Sailboat

Designed by Charles Morgan and first launched in 1968, this classic 42-footer represents the golden era of American fiberglass sailboat construction. Morgan Yachts built this masthead sloop during a time when the company was establishing its reputation for producing solid, seaworthy cruising boats that balanced performance with comfort. With its fin keel and rudder-on-skeg configuration, the Morgan 42 1 offers reliable handling characteristics that inspire confidence in both coastal and offshore sailing. The moderate displacement of 19,000 pounds combined with 789 square feet of sail area creates a well-balanced sailing platform capable of maintaining good speeds in light to moderate conditions while remaining manageable in heavier weather. The boat's comfort ratio of 33.44 indicates excellent motion characteristics for extended cruising, while the capsize screening formula of 1.73 demonstrates adequate stability for offshore passages. These numbers reflect Morgan's philosophy of prioritizing seaworthiness and crew comfort over pure racing performance. Hull speed calculations suggest sustained speeds around 7.4 knots, making this an ideal choice for serious cruising sailors who value traditional design principles and proven construction methods. The SA/Displacement ratio of 17.8 indicates moderate power, suitable for sailors seeking dependable performance rather than cutting-edge speed.

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The deck-to-hull joint on early Morgan 42s was bonded with polyester resin and mechanically fastened, but the joint is prone to separation and water intrusion, particularly at the bow and stern quarters. Look for soft or cracked gelcoat along the toerail line.
1968–1975 models
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The balsa-cored deck sections, particularly around deck hardware, chainplates, and stanchion bases, are known to absorb water and delaminate. Tap testing throughout the deck is essential, especially around the mast base and cockpit perimeter.
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The encapsulated ballast keel on early models used internally placed lead or iron ballast laid up within the fiberglass hull. Water intrusion into the keel cavity through stress cracks can cause internal corrosion of iron ballast and weaken the keel stub.
1968–1974 models
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 42.00 ft / 12.80 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.50 ft / 9.30 m
Beam 11.50 ft / 3.51 m
Max Draft 5.50 ft / 1.68 m
Displacement 19,000.00 lb / 8,618 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 789.00 ft² / 73.30 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Charles Morgan
Builder Morgan Yachts (USA)
First Built 1968
Related Sailboats Morgan 42 2 · Tartan 42 · Irwin 42 · Cascade 42 · Lancer 42
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Morgan 42 1's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Morgan 42 1 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.8. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Morgan 42 1's comfort ratio?

The Morgan 42 1 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.44. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Morgan 42 1 safe for offshore sailing?

The Morgan 42 1 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.73. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Morgan 42 1?

The theoretical hull speed of the Morgan 42 1 is 7.40 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Morgan 42 1 weigh?

The Morgan 42 1 has a displacement of 19,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 42.00 ft.

Who designed the Morgan 42 1?

The Morgan 42 1 was designed by Charles Morgan, first built in 1968.