Pat, no that is not true, they still make standard
length masts. I have a 1999 model Hull # 1800 and its a standard rig (I sail in LI Sound and some times I wish I had the taller rig).BTW you will LOVE this boat

Don't forget to join the C36 International Association at the link bart listed http://www.catalina36.org/You can get a CD with all the past tech notes and all the manuals when you sign up for 3 years. That ALONE is worth the price of joining not to mention all the other benefits and the quarterly Mainsheet magazine