Cabo Rico 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The lineage of the Cabo Rico 38 traces back to Cabo Rico's earlier Tiburon 36, also a W.I.B. Crealock design. Production of the Cabo Rico 38 commenced in 1977, marking a significant evolution from its predecessor and cementing Cabo Rico's commitment to sturdy cruising yachts. Cabo Rico, established in 1967 by John Schofield, built its reputation on crafting robust, semi-custom cruising sailboats in Costa Rica. The company's design philosophy, particularly during the era of the 38's production, centered on creating "heavy displacement offshore cruising yachts" known for their ability to provide "safe and comfortable passage-making in any conditions." Crealock's designs, including the Cabo Rico 38, are often characterized by their full keels and deep drafts, contributing to their renowned stability and interior volume. The Cabo Rico 38, built of hand-laid mat and roving, saw several variations in its standard interior layout during its production run, particularly distinguishing early boats (1977-~1984) with more basic interiors from later models. It proved to be the company's most successful and longest-running design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cabo Rico 38 is defined by its conservative but capable sailing characteristics. With a displacement of 21,000 pounds and a length overall of 38 feet, she falls into the very heavy displacement category, indicated by a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 375. This substantial displacement contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent load-carrying capacity, ideal for extended cruising.

Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.24 suggests moderate performance; while not a light-air speedster, she is well-powered enough to move efficiently in a breeze. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 37.1% further reinforces her stability, allowing the boat to stand up to significant wind without excessive heel. Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Cabo Rico 38 for being well-mannered and predictable, exhibiting few vices. She is noted for her strong rig and manageable sail plan, providing a smooth and stable ride even in challenging conditions. While slightly less responsive than lighter cruising designs, the Cabo Rico 38 is well-balanced in both light and heavy air.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cabo Rico 38, known for its solid fiberglass hull and deck construction, often features extensive use of solid teak trim, creating a handsome and traditional appearance. While specific headroom details are not always consistent across all models due to their semi-custom nature, the wide beam of 11.5 feet contributes to a spacious interior volume. Early brochures for the 38 showcased at least two basic accommodation plans, and later boats offered more refined layouts.

Typical interior arrangements often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station. Many models feature a single head, often to port or starboard. The extensive use of wood cabinetry and trim provides ample storage throughout the vessel. Ventilation is generally achieved through deck hatches and portlights. The design prioritizes the safety and comfort of the crew and guests, ensuring a practical and livable space for offshore voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cabo Rico 38 tend to be highly enthusiastic about their vessels, consistently attesting to the quality construction and the boat's ability to handle heavy seas. The solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently highlighted as major strengths, appealing to those who prioritize seaworthiness for serious cruising and global exploration. The strong rig, predictable sailing characteristics, and ample tankage for fuel (55 gallons) and water (150 gallons) are also often praised by owners as essential for long-distance passages.

However, as with any yacht of its age, some recurring maintenance considerations are noted. Owners occasionally report issues with original deck fittings developing leaks, particularly in balsa-cored decks, which may require re-bedding. Overall, the consensus among owners is that the Cabo Rico 38, if properly maintained, offers an enduring quality and design that appeals to experienced cruisers and adventurers.