CENTURION 38
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 37.73 ft |
| LWL | 31.17 ft |
| Beam | 12.53 ft |
| Draft | 4.8 ft |
| Displacement | 20,200 lb |
| Ballast | 6,300.4 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 52.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.2 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 46.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13.3 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.2 ft |
| Mainsail | 706.7 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 372.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 633.7 sq ft |
About the CENTURION 38
Not to be confused with the WAUQUIEZ HOOD 38 from the same builder.
The Centurion 38 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising sloop designed by Ed Dubois and built by Henri Wauquiez in France between 1987 and 1991, with only 24 hulls produced. Its substantial 20200.0 lb displacement and 32.5 comfort ratio indicate a vessel built for stability and seakworthiness rather than high-speed planing.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, stable passage-making platform, particularly given its heavy displacement and moderate sail area-to-displacement ratio of 14.77.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.84 and a high displacement-to-length ratio of 297.78, the Centurion 38 demonstrates strong inherent stability and offshore suitability, though its fin keel and 4.8 ft max draft require careful anchorage selection.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other late-1980s French heavy cruisers like the Beneteau 38 or Oyster 38, which share similar displacement characteristics and offshore-oriented hull forms.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 37.73ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 4 systems for the CENTURION 38, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CENTURION 38? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 4 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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