Arcona 380/385 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Arcona 380 was first launched in 2014, with the model evolving into the Arcona 385 in 2020. Notably, the 385 retains the same fundamental hull and rig as its 380 predecessor. Designer Stefan Qviberg's long-standing collaboration with Arcona, dating back to the early 1990s, reflects a consistent philosophy: to blend exceptional sailing ability with a high standard of interior design. This aligns perfectly with Arcona's overarching brand identity, which seeks to perfect the "cruiser-racer" concept by striking an optimal balance between competitive performance and cruising amenities. The builder's ethos, rooted in Swedish craftsmanship, emphasizes robust sandwich construction, often utilizing hand-laminated hulls and decks, ensuring a solid and durable vessel. The Arcona 380, for instance, was designed with a beam significantly wider than its predecessors, a design choice intended to enhance interior volume. While the hull and rig remained consistent, the transition to the 385 introduced modern refinements such as an open transom and twin carbon steering wheels, reflecting an evolution in contemporary yacht design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Arcona 380/385's design ratios underscore its performance-oriented cruising capabilities. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.7, the boat exhibits excellent performance in lighter winds, allowing it to move efficiently even when conditions are mild. A displacement to length ratio of around 160.2 further categorizes it as a lighter, more performance-focused vessel, reinforcing its agility on the water. While its ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.35 is not exceptionally high (relative to some heavy displacement cruisers), owner feedback and test reports consistently praise its stiffness and stable behavior. Sailors describe the Arcona 380 as "pretty nippy" and a "pure delight to sail". It's renowned for sailing well in various conditions and is noted to sail "visibly stiff and generally heels little," proving its race-winning performance capabilities. Its character is often described as quick, lightweight, and easy to manage, making it appealing to both racing enthusiasts and those seeking an effortless cruising experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the limited detailed interior specifications in the raw data, grounded research reveals that the Arcona 380/385 offers a well-appointed and thoughtfully designed interior, reflecting Arcona's signature quality and Scandinavian style. The layout typically features three separate cabins, each with comfortable double berths. The saloon commonly presents a classic floor plan, often incorporating an L-shaped kitchenette. The finish quality is consistently praised, with well-finished woodwork and a clean, modern aesthetic evident throughout. Storage is generally ample, with a two-cabin version noted as an option that provides additional storage, making it well-suited for extended blue-water cruising. Owners can also expect high-quality interior upholstery options, contributing to the overall refined atmosphere. The design prioritizes comfort and functionality, ensuring that time spent below deck is a pleasure.