LIBERTY 38
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 38 ft |
| LWL | 30.67 ft |
| Beam | 11.5 ft |
| Draft | 4.75 ft |
| Displacement | 21,000 lb |
| Ballast | 8,549.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 45.2 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 17.1 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 41.4 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14.2 ft |
About the LIBERTY 38
Similar model promoted as the FENNELL 38.
Designed by Joe Fennell and built by Liberty Yachts (USA) between 1983 and 1985, the Liberty 38 is a rare vessel with only 6 hulls constructed. Its full/long keel and cutter rig configuration reflect a traditional, robust design philosophy typical of the early 1980s.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers or conservative bluewater sailors who prioritize stability and traditional handling over high-speed performance. Its heavy displacement and full keel make it ideal for those seeking a comfortable, motion-dampened passage-making experience.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 21000.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.67, the Liberty 38 exhibits strong inherent stability and seaworthiness suitable for offshore passages. Its full/long keel design provides excellent tracking and safety in heavy weather, though it may sacrifice tacking ability.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hallberg-Rassy 38 and the Tartan 38, which share similar full-keel, heavy-displacement characteristics and traditional cutter rigs. These vessels appeal to the same demographic seeking proven, seaworthy designs from the same era.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the LIBERTY 38 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 38ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
We don't have enough data on the LIBERTY 38yet 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 LIBERTY 38? 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 LIBERTY 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: Perkins — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the LIBERTY 38
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…