DOWNEASTER 38
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 38 ft |
| LWL | 29 ft |
| Beam | 11.83 ft |
| Draft | 4.92 ft |
| Displacement | 19,500 lb |
| Ballast | 8,000.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.2 kn |
About the DOWNEASTER 38
Length incl. bowsprit: 41.75' Available with a Cutter, Ketch or Schooner rig. Ketch SA: 761 sq.ft. Schooner SA: 721 sq.ft.
Designed by Henry Morschladt and Bob Poole and built by Down East Yachts, the Downeaster 38 is a robust, full-keel cutter produced from 1974–1981 with a total of 230 hulls built. Its heavy displacement of 19500.0 lb and high comfort ratio of 35.4 reflect a design prioritizing stability and seakeeping over speed, making it a classic example of the rugged American cruising yacht of the 1970s.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and conservative bluewater passages who value a stable, dry ride and traditional handling characteristics. It appeals to owners willing to perform diligent maintenance on older fiberglass construction, particularly regarding deck cores, rather than those seeking high-performance racing capabilities.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.76 and a displacement/length ratio of 356.94, the Downeaster 38 is well-regarded for offshore suitability, offering exceptional stability and a forgiving motion in heavy seas. Its full/long keel design provides strong directional stability, making it a reliable choice for extended passages despite its moderate sail area/displacement ratio of 16.29.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 40 and the O'Day 38, which share similar production eras, full-keel cutter rigs, and heavy displacement profiles aimed at safe, comfortable offshore cruising. These vessels offer similar interior volumes and robust construction but may differ in specific deck layout or interior finish quality.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
9 listings · boat years 1976–1981 · median $29,500
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 38ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
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Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
21 reported issues across 7 systems for the DOWNEASTER 38, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DOWNEASTER 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 21 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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Used sails that fit the DOWNEASTER 38
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