HINCKLEY 38
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 37.5 ft |
| LWL | 27.5 ft |
| Beam | 10.5 ft |
| Draft | 5.67 ft |
| Displacement | 13,920 lb |
| Ballast | 5,999.5 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 45 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 15 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 40 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14 ft |
| FLforestay | 15 ft |
| Mainsail | 639.9 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 337.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 573.8 sq ft |
About the HINCKLEY 38
S&S #1903. Hulls were produced by Hughes Boatworks of Canada. Deck and finish by Hinckley.
The Hinckley 38 is a classic Sparkman & Stephens design built by Henry R. Hinckley & Co.(USA) between 1968–1970, with a total production run of 28 hulls. This limited-production vessel represents a high-quality, heavy-displacement cruising sloop from the late 1960s, characterized by robust construction and traditional aesthetics.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, stable passage-making vessel, given its high comfort ratio of 30.78 and substantial displacement of 13920.0 lb. It appeals to owners who value classic design and are willing to invest in ongoing maintenance of aging systems.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 13920.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.75, and a fin keel with 5.67 ft max draft, the Hinckley 38 is well-suited for offshore cruising due to its heavy displacement and stable hull form.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other Sparkman & Stephens designs from the same era, such as the Tartan 38 or O'Day 38, which share similar beam dimensions and cruising-oriented hull forms. The Hinckley 38 distinguishes itself with higher build quality and a more refined interior finish typical of the Hinckley brand.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
8 listings · boat years 1966–1971 · median $79,500
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 37.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
17 reported issues across 9 systems for the HINCKLEY 38, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HINCKLEY 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 17 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
Which engine powers your HINCKLEY 38?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Universal, Perkins — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the HINCKLEY 38
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…