CONTESSA 38 (ALAN-WILLIAMS)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 38.22 ft |
| LWL | 30.06 ft |
| Beam | 11.31 ft |
| Draft | 6.67 ft |
| Displacement | 15,900 lb |
| Ballast | 7,716.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.3 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 47.56 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 15.42 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 41 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11.48 ft |
| FLforestay | 15.4 ft |
| Mainsail | 620.9 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 366.7 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 623.4 sq ft |
About the CONTESSA 38 (ALAN-WILLIAMS)
8 were built as training yachts for the Royal Navy.
Designed by David Alan-Williams and built by Jeremy Rogers, the Contessa 38 is a robust cruising sloop with a production run of 28 hulls constructed in 1981. This single-year build represents a specific iteration of the Alan-Williams design philosophy, emphasizing heavy displacement and structural integrity for serious offshore use.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideally suited for experienced bluewater cruisers and coastal explorers who prioritize seakeeping and comfort over high-speed performance. Its heavy displacement and comfortable motion make it a strong candidate for long-range passages and liveaboard comfort.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 15900.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.8, the Contessa 38 exhibits exceptional stability and seaworthiness for offshore passages. Its heavy build and fin keel configuration provide reliable performance in heavy weather, supported by a comfort ratio of 29.88 that ensures a smooth ride.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Hallberg-Rassy 38 and the Hallberg-Rassy 36, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and offshore pedigree. The Contessa 38 also aligns with the early 1980s trend of robust, fin-keel cruisers like the O'Day 38, though with a more specialized offshore focus.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTESSA 38 (ALAN-WILLIAMS) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 38.22ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
14 reported issues across 8 systems for the CONTESSA 38 (ALAN-WILLIAMS), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTESSA 38 (ALAN-WILLIAMS)? 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 14 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
Similar Sailboats
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Used sails that fit the CONTESSA 38 (ALAN-WILLIAMS)
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