Frers 38 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Frers 38 commenced in 1988 under the meticulous craftsmanship of Carroll Marine, a Rhode Island-based builder renowned for its commitment to high-performance yachts and cutting-edge construction techniques. Carroll Marine, led by Janice and Barry Carroll, quickly established a reputation for building fast, well-engineered vessels, often collaborating with leading naval architects like Germán Frers to create iconic models. Frers himself is celebrated for his elegant, high-performance designs, consistently aiming to integrate speed and comfort into cruising yachts.

The Frers 38's hull design is a further development derived from the successful Frers 41, characterized by a fine entry and a clean run aft, features that contribute to its sailing efficiency. Notably, the production run of the Frers 38 saw various modifications to the keel, rudder, and rig, indicating a continuous effort to refine its performance and handling characteristics. Some vessels even received modern custom "L" keels, showcasing owner-driven enhancements to stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Frers 38 is designed to offer a dynamic sailing experience, balancing performance with stability. With a calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.62, she exhibits good potential for performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, where her ample sail plan can efficiently propel her. The boat's ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.445 further underscores its inherent stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to stronger winds and providing a secure, comfortable motion in a seaway.

Despite these performance-oriented characteristics, the Frers 38, when evaluated by a specific displacement-to-length ratio formula, indicates a heavier displacement vessel (approximately 533.2 by the given metric). This suggests a robustly built and solid platform, which contributes to its reputation for being a very sea-kindly vessel capable of handling heavy seas with a notably dry ride. Equipped with a fin keel for splendid maneuverability and a responsive spade rudder, the Frers 38 is known for its balanced helm and predictable behavior across different sea states. Its hull speed is estimated at 7.35 knots, indicative of a design optimized for efficient passage making. While generally praised for its handling, some anecdotal observations suggest it might "push water downwind" and be "tough to get her to break free", a point of discussion among owners that could relate to specific conditions or trim.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications for the Frers 38 are not extensively documented in all public records, the vessel was built to a high standard, emphasizing both speed and comfort. Carroll Marine's construction typically featured fiberglass solid hulls and decks, ensuring durability. The interior layout often reflected its racer/cruiser intent. One noted configuration included an aft bunkroom without a door and a forward section designated for sail storage rather than a dedicated forward cabin, suggesting a layout that prioritizes functional space for gear and crew during races while still offering basic cruising amenities. Generally, Frers designs are known for their blend of elegant aesthetics and functional layouts, aiming for comfortable yet efficient living spaces even in performance-oriented models. Owners looking at these vessels often focus on the interior layout as a key decision factor, highlighting the variations that might exist in cabin arrangements.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Frers 38 consistently commend its solid construction and remarkable seaworthiness. Many praise its ability to deliver a "very sea kindly ride" and handle challenging conditions effectively, providing a "very dry ride" in heavy seas. The high build quality by Carroll Marine contributes to a vessel that has proven to be enduring, with many owners investing significant effort in refitting and maintaining their boats, underscoring their lasting value and appeal.

However, the history of modifications to the keel, rudder, and rig is a frequent topic in owner discussions, suggesting that early versions may have benefited from these refinements or that owners sought to optimize performance further. Prospective owners are often advised to consider the specific configuration of these components when evaluating a used Frers 38. While generally considered a strong performer, some owners have noted that the boat can be "slow" downwind and may require effort to "break free". Despite these considerations, the Frers 38 maintains a loyal following among sailors who appreciate its robust build, comfortable motion, and capacity for spirited sailing.