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17data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this CAPE GEORGE 38 buyer’s report
CAPE GEORGE 38

CAPE GEORGE 38

Cecil Lange & SonπŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΈΒ· Design: William Atkin/Cecil Lange
$159,959 avg$140,376 – $179,500 (3 listings)from 1985
$2.4K – $6.3K est. annual maintenance
Bluewater CruisermonoCutterFull/Long

Specifications

Hull

LOA38 ft
LWL35 ft
Beam11.58 ft
Draft5.17 ft
Displacement30,000 lb
Ballast10,500 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL7.9 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height47 ft
Jforetriangle base19 ft
Pmainsail luff43.25 ft
Emainsail foot17.25 ft
FLforestay19 ft
Mainsail849.4 sq ft
Jib (100%)446.5 sq ft
Spinnaker759.1 sq ft

About the CAPE GEORGE 38

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Cape George 38 is a classic full-keel cutter designed by William Atkin and Cecil Lange, built by Cecil Lange & Son (USA) with production starting in 1985. With a displacement of 30000.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 49.47, this vessel is engineered for heavy-weather stability and comfortable offshore passage making.

Best for:
This boat is ideally suited for experienced bluewater cruisers and coastal explorers who prioritize seakeeping and traditional sailing characteristics over high-speed performance. Its cutter rig and substantial displacement make it a strong candidate for single-handers seeking a safe, stable platform for long-distance voyaging.
Bluewater capability:
With a capsize ratio of 1.49 and a D/L ratio of 312.37, the Cape George 38 demonstrates exceptional offshore suitability, combining a full/long keel for directional stability with significant ballast of 10500.0 lb for righting moment.
Comparables:
Comparable vessels include the Cape George 36 and 40, which share the same Atkin/Lange design philosophy and full-keel cutter configuration. It also competes with other heavy-displacement trawlers from the 1980s, such as the Tartan 38 or Valiant 40, offering similar offshore security.

Performance

Comfort49.5
Capsize1.49
SA/Disp13.6
Disp/Len312
Bal/Disp35.0

Estimated Value

Low Confidence
Based on 3 listings
Low
$118,618
Estimated Value
$128,164
High
$133,818
Inflation-adjusted to 2026 USD

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 38ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$2.4K – $6.3K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
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Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

1 reported issues across 1 systems for the CAPE GEORGE 38, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

1 major
Structural1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a CAPE GEORGE 38? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

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Used sails that fit the CAPE GEORGE 38

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