Show 38 Information, Review, Specs

The Show 38 entered production in 1981, a pivotal time for Cantieri Barberis as they solidified their reputation for producing high-quality fiberglass sailing yachts. The design team of Fontana / Maletto / Navone crafted the Show 38 with a racing hull, intending it to perform well under IOR (International Offshore Rule) handicap systems while also being a capable cruiser. This approach was characteristic of Barberis's broader design philosophy, which sought to balance competitive sailing capabilities with comfortable amenities. The builder's ethos, as described in the company's history, involved using fiberglass as the primary construction material, allowing for efficient production while maintaining high standards of finish and design. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII are not widely documented, the consistent focus on a fin keel and spade rudder configuration suggests a stable design throughout its production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 25.6, the Show 38 is characterized as a relatively light and performance-oriented boat, indicating strong performance in lighter winds. The ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.41 further emphasizes its stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up to more wind and maintain its sail plan effectively. Its displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 193.5, categorizes it as a lighter vessel for its size, suggesting it is responsive and capable of good speeds. Owners have described the Show 38 as a "perfect coastal cruiser" that offers good sailing abilities. Its fin keel and spade rudder hull type contribute to its maneuverability and responsiveness, making it engaging to sail across a range of conditions. Reviews note it as a racing sloop that is also comfortable for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on the interior layout are less common in public records, the Barberis Show 38 is typically arranged to accommodate cruising families comfortably. Brochures from the era confirm interior photos and descriptions. Owners have noted that the boat can comfortably house two adults and two children, with separate berths available for the kids. The interior generally features a salon, galley, berths, and typically two heads, with some configurations including an internal shower. Given Barberis's reputation for elegant designs and quality construction during its golden age, the interior finish would likely have featured well-crafted wood trim and practical, durable materials, typical of Italian yachts of the period. Ample storage and good ventilation would have been considerations for a vessel designed for both racing and cruising. Some models feature a Volvo Penta engine, two electric toilets, and a shower both inside and outside.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Barberis Show 38 consistently praise its suitability as a coastal cruiser and its comfortable nature, even for families with children and pets. The boat is generally appreciated for its solid construction and its ability to handle various sailing conditions competently. While specific common problems are not extensively detailed in general reviews, the longevity of these vessels in the used boat market suggests a robust build quality. As with many boats of its vintage, potential maintenance considerations might include the integrity of original deck fittings, requiring re-bedding over time, and the condition of older systems, which would be typical for a boat produced in the early 1980s. The continued presence of Show 38s for sale and charter indicates their enduring appeal and functionality.