Golden Wave 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Golden Wave 38 begins in 1983, a period when Cheoy Lee Shipyard, a family-owned business with over a century of boatbuilding expertise, was a prominent pioneer in fiberglass yacht construction. The Hong Kong-based yard had already earned a sterling reputation for producing reliable vessels, having been among the first to extensively utilize fiberglass and GRP foam sandwich technology in marine applications. The Golden Wave 38, also often referred to simply as the Pedrick 38, was a product of this innovative era.

For this model, Cheoy Lee collaborated with the distinguished naval architect David Pedrick, a designer celebrated for his work on high-performance yachts, including America's Cup contenders. Pedrick's philosophy often involved applying his deep understanding of handicapping and design rules, suggesting a design that, while primarily a cruiser, would also exhibit commendable sailing characteristics. The vessel features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for providing a good balance of performance and protection. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not widely documented for this model, the consistent design across the "Golden Wave 38" and "Pedrick 38" nomenclature indicates a well-defined original concept.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Golden Wave 38, with a length overall of just over 38 feet and a waterline length of 30.83 feet, is characterized as a moderate-to-heavy displacement sailboat, suggesting a focus on comfortable cruising rather than outright racing. Her reported sail area of 720 square feet, combined with a displacement of 19,025 pounds, results in a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.15. This figure indicates a boat that performs reliably in a range of conditions, offering steady progress without being overly sensitive in lighter airs or underpowered in stronger winds.

The vessel's ballast, weighing 6,700 pounds, contributes to a ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.352. While not exceptionally high, this ratio still provides a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a moderate breeze. Her displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 290.17, places her firmly in the category of a comfortable cruiser, capable of providing a smooth and predictable motion, especially in a seaway. Owners have frequently praised the Pedrick 38 for its sea-kindly motion and stable characteristics, making it easy to handle in various conditions. The fin keel design enhances maneuverability, a trait appreciated by those navigating diverse coastal and offshore environments.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details from the structured data are limited, the Cheoy Lee Golden Wave 38, consistent with Cheoy Lee's reputation for quality cruising yachts of its era, offers a comfortable and practical living space. The interior layout typically includes traditional amenities expected of a cruiser of this size. Common arrangements feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station.

Based on reviews and discussions among owners, the interior finishes of Cheoy Lee vessels from this period are generally robust, often featuring a blend of well-crafted wood trim and fiberglass components. Storage is typically ample, designed to accommodate the provisions and gear required for extended cruising. While explicit details on maximum headroom are not provided, these boats generally offered sufficient standing room in the main cabin areas for comfortable living. Ventilation would likely be achieved through a combination of deck hatches and portlights, providing airflow in tropical and temperate climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Golden Wave 38 (or Pedrick 38) consistently express satisfaction with their vessels, frequently highlighting the boat's solid construction and offshore capabilities. The build quality, a hallmark of Cheoy Lee, is often cited as a significant strength, with few reported problems concerning the hull itself. The "sea-kindly" motion and comfortable ride in various sea states are also commonly praised, reinforcing its reputation as a capable cruiser.

Like any vessel of its age, owners may encounter typical maintenance requirements. One anecdote mentions a cracked tile in the galley, which could sometimes indicate underlying issues, though this is not a widespread structural problem. The active community of Cheoy Lee Pedrick owners, encompassing various lengths, suggests a supportive network for sharing information and addressing common concerns, further attesting to the enduring appeal and functionality of these classic cruising yachts.