Landfall 38 (C&C) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the C&C Landfall 38 spanned from 1979 to 1985, a period when C&C Yachts was at the forefront of innovative boatbuilding. The Landfall 38 shares its fundamental hull design with the earlier C&C 38-2 but distinguishes itself with a shallower keel, a shorter rig, and a completely redesigned interior. As part of the three-boat Landfall range, which also included 35- and 43-foot models, the 38-footer was pivotal in C&C's efforts to cater to the growing cruising market by blending modern design with a more traditional appearance.

The design, overseen by Robert W. Ball, reflects C&C's commitment to cutting-edge construction, notably its pioneering use of balsa-cored fiberglass hulls, which improved stiffness while reducing overall weight. The Landfall 38's hull is indeed constructed from fiberglass with a balsa core. Its design elements, including a moderate-draft fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, were considered innovative for their time, contributing to its performance and handling characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C Landfall 38 is recognized for its balanced sailing performance, indicative of its "performance cruiser" lineage. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.93, she exhibits decent performance, especially in moderate winds, though she might require more breeze than lighter, more dedicated racing designs. Her ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.389 (38.9%) suggests a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze, a characteristic often praised by owners.

Her displacement to length ratio, calculated at roughly 271, places her firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser. This reflects her robust build and emphasis on comfort and stability over outright light-air speed. Owners frequently commend the Landfall 38 as an excellent sailing vessel, noting its stiffness and respectable turn of speed, with an average PHRF rating of 120. She is described as a responsive cruiser, distinguishing her from some competitors.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the C&C Landfall 38 is one of its most distinctive features, offering a layout that was entirely different from its C&C 38-2 sibling and was considered quite unique and functional for cruising purposes. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently documented, the overall design prioritizes livability. The cabin is typically described as warm and inviting, often featuring beautiful teak joinery.

The interior arrangement typically includes a V-berth forward, a head, a comfortable salon, a functional galley, and a genuine aft cabin, a feature that was forward-thinking for a boat of its size and era. While the fit and finish are generally regarded as excellent, some contemporary reviews noted that the mix of Mica and teak below deck, while practical, might not have offered the "wow factor" of some purely custom yachts. A notable observation regarding the interior is the lack of soundproofing in the engine compartment, which is located close to the owner's berth.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C Landfall 38 generally hold their vessels in high regard, frequently praising the yacht's construction quality, often comparing it favorably to custom or semi-custom builds of the era. The boat's solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are commonly highlighted strengths, contributing to its appeal as a capable cruising platform.

However, some recurring issues are also noted within the owner community. A frequent complaint involves annoying leaks, particularly stemming from the deck-to-hull joint, deck hardware fasteners, and windows, often requiring re-bedding. While the balsa-cored hull is a point of discussion for some potential buyers, owners report few structural problems related to it. The absence of engine compartment soundproofing is also a recognized drawback. Despite these points, the enduring quality and classic design of the Landfall 38 continue to inspire a dedicated owner community.