MOODY 38
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 37.5 ft |
| LWL | 31.5 ft |
| Beam | 12.67 ft |
| Draft | 5.75 ft |
| Shoal Draft version | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 18,000 lb |
| Ballast | 6,850.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 48 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.83 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 41.17 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 13.88 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.8 ft |
| Mainsail | 664.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 355.9 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 605.1 sq ft |
About the MOODY 38
Designed by Bill Dixon and built by Marine Projects Ltd. (UK) between 1991 and 1996, the Moody 38 is a robust coastal cruiser with a total production of 163 hulls. Its heavy displacement and comfortable ratios reflect a design philosophy prioritizing stability and livability over high-speed performance.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, stable platform for family sailing, as evidenced by the high prevalence of dodgers, biminis, and bow thrusters in owner reports. It is less ideal for single-handers due to its heavy displacement and traditional rigging layout.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 18000.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.94, the Moody 38 demonstrates strong inherent stability suitable for offshore passages, though its fin keel and moderate draft of 5.75 ft limit access to very shallow waters.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Hallberg-Rassy 38 and the Nauticat 38, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and coastal cruising roles. These vessels offer similar comfort ratios and interior volume, appealing to buyers who prioritize sea-kindliness over planing ability.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(4 certificates)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 4.1 | 5.0 | 5.7 | 6.2 | 6.6 | 6.8 | 6.8 |
| 60° | 4.5 | 5.4 | 6.1 | 6.7 | 7.0 | 7.1 | 7.2 |
| 75° | 4.8 | 5.8 | 6.5 | 7.0 | 7.3 | 7.5 | 7.6 |
| 90° | 4.8 | 5.8 | 6.5 | 7.1 | 7.4 | 7.6 | 7.9 |
| 110° | 4.4 | 5.5 | 6.3 | 6.9 | 7.3 | 7.6 | 8.1 |
| 120° | 4.1 | 5.2 | 6.0 | 6.7 | 7.2 | 7.5 | 8.0 |
| 135° | 3.6 | 4.6 | 5.4 | 6.2 | 6.8 | 7.2 | 7.7 |
| 150° | 3.0 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 5.5 | 6.2 | 6.8 | 7.5 |
| Beat VMG | 2.5 | 3.1 | 3.6 | 3.9 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.3 |
| Run VMG | 2.6 | 3.5 | 4.3 | 5.0 | 5.7 | 6.3 | 7.2 |
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceAsking price by model year
7 listings · boat years 1994–1996 · median $79,900
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.
Featured YouTube Videos
Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
18 reported issues across 7 systems for the MOODY 38, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MOODY 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 18 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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Which engine powers your MOODY 38?
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Used sails that fit the MOODY 38
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