MOODY S38

About the MOODY S38

Also available with fractional rig. 2 different interior layouts.

Designed by Bill Dixon and built by Marine Projects Ltd. (UK) between 1995 and 1998, the Moody S38 is a robust coastal cruiser with a total production run of 60 hulls. Its design emphasizes comfort and stability, reflected in a high comfort ratio of 28.32 and a displacement of 19064.0 lb, making it a substantial vessel for its 39.0 ft length overall.

Best for:

This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and those seeking a comfortable, stable passage-making vessel, as evidenced by the high frequency of davit (85 mentions) and watermaker (19 mentions) installations indicating a focus on extended stays and self-sufficiency. The prevalence of solar panels (19 mentions) and bow thrusters (17 mentions) further suggests owners prioritize ease of handling and off-grid capability.

Bluewater capability:

With a capsize ratio of 1.94 and a displacement of 19064.0 lb, the S38 demonstrates strong inherent stability and offshore suitability, a view supported by owner investments in bluewater gear such as watermakers and wind generators. However, the high frequency of keel smile and sump cracking reports (19 mentions) requires careful structural verification before considering serious offshore passages.

Comparables:

Comparable vessels include other Bill Dixon designs from the mid-1990s and similarly heavy-displacement fin-keel sloops like the Hallberg-Rassy 38 or Nauticat 383, which share the S38's emphasis on seaworthiness and interior volume. The S38's specific combination of a 12.92 ft beam and 19064.0 lb displacement places it in the category of heavy, stable cruisers rather than performance racers.