Cabo Rico 38 PH Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cabo Rico 38 PH emerged in 1976 as a pilothouse version of the popular Cabo Rico 38, itself an evolution of the Tiburon 36 launched in 1971. Cabo Rico, established in Costa Rica by John Schofield in 1967, transitioned from powerboats to sailboats, focusing on sturdy cruising yachts. The company's manufacturing ethos, particularly during this era, centered on "heavy displacement offshore cruising yachts" known for "safe and comfortable passage-making in any conditions".

W.I.B. Crealock, a prominent yacht designer, was instrumental in shaping Cabo Rico's iconic designs, including the 38, 14, 20]. Crealock's design philosophy consistently emphasized seaworthiness, stability, and comfort, ensuring vessels could maintain speed safely and comfortably even in rough seas. The Cabo Rico 38 PH embodies this approach with its long keel hull type, deep draft, and wide beam, contributing to its renowned stability and interior volume. While layouts varied due to Cabo Rico's semi-custom building approach, the 38 PH was available with either a cutter or ketch rig. Early models occasionally featured teak deck overlays, which, if not meticulously maintained, could lead to underlying issues.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cabo Rico 38 PH is characterized by its heavy displacement, tipping the scales at 21,500 pounds with a waterline length of 29.25 feet. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 384 signifies a heavy, traditional cruiser, emphasizing its capability for comfortable passage-making over pure speed. With 7,000 pounds of ballast, the vessel boasts a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 32.5%. While not indicating extreme initial stiffness, this ratio contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a jerky ride.

The estimated sail area of approximately 750 square feet results in a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 15.5. This figure suggests that the Cabo Rico 38 PH is not designed for blistering light-air performance but rather for steady, powerful progress, particularly once the wind builds. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Cabo Rico 38 as a "well mannered" vessel with "few vices". It is known for its predictable sailing characteristics, handling heavy seas admirably, and providing a comfortable motion in various sea states. Due to its long keel, while excellent for offshore tracking, the boat may be less nimble and require more space when maneuvering in crowded harbors.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for the Cabo Rico 38 PH vary due to its semi-custom nature, the general design prioritizes liveability and comfort for extended cruising. Cabo Rico yachts are renowned for their robust "solid teak interiors," creating a warm and traditional ambiance. Typical layouts often feature a comfortable V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage is generally ample, reflecting its design as a serious offshore cruiser. The pilothouse configuration provides an enclosed steering station, offering protection from the elements and enhanced visibility, a key advantage for long-distance cruising in varied climates. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the boat's generous beam of 11.5 feet contributes to a spacious feel below decks.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cabo Rico 38, including the pilothouse variant, often express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently praising the yacht's "quality construction and ability to handle heavy seas". The sentiment among the owner community is that these boats are built to endure, offering a "solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway". Many appreciate the vessel's blue-water capabilities and its suitability for serious exploration.

A common point of discussion among owners, particularly for early models, revolves around potential issues with original deck fittings. Some owners have noted that the original deck fittings, especially on boats with teak deck overlays, can develop leaks over time, often attributed to drilling into balsa-cored decks. This typically requires re-bedding, a common maintenance task on many older fiberglass boats. Despite such potential maintenance items, the dedicated community of Cabo Rico owners attests to the enduring quality and seaworthiness of these trusted cruising yachts.