HUGHES 38-3
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 37.9 ft |
| LWL | 27 ft |
| Beam | 10.17 ft |
| Draft | 5.83 ft |
| Displacement | 14,500 lb |
| Ballast | 6,400.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 43.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 39.23 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13.74 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 606.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 315.4 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 536.1 sq ft |
About the HUGHES 38-3
The 38-3 (or MK III) has a different deck with a longer coachroof, shorter cockpit, than the earlier versions, among other changes. The hull (according to the best information we have)is still based on S&S Design #1903.
The Hughes 38-3 is a classic cruising sloop designed by Sparkman & Stephens and built by Hughes Boatworks Ltd. in Canada between 1977 and 1982. With a displacement of 14500.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 33.71, this vessel is engineered for stability and seakeeping rather than high-speed planing.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize a comfortable, stable ride and traditional sailing characteristics over rapid acceleration. Its substantial displacement and fin keel make it ideal for owners seeking a robust, safe platform for extended passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.67 and a high displacement-to-length ratio of 328.87, the Hughes 38-3 demonstrates strong inherent stability and resistance to capsizing, making it well-suited for offshore passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Cal 40 and the Tartan 38, as they share similar production eras, Sparkman & Stephens or equivalent pedigree, and heavy-displacement cruising philosophies. These boats offer similar beam and draft profiles, catering to the same market of serious bluewater enthusiasts.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the HUGHES 38-3 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 37.9ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
We don't have enough data on the HUGHES 38-3yet to publish model-specific findings we'd stand behind — but here's a free general inspection checklist, built from our research into what actually goes wrong on boats of this kind.
Drawn from 7,029 documented issues across 2,391 models, ordered so the areas that most often turn up problems come first.
Own a HUGHES 38-3? Reports from owners are what turn this into a model-specific checklist — and they're the reason the boats above it have one.
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your HUGHES 38-3?
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.
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the HUGHES 38-3
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…