Sigma 38 (S&S) Information, Review, Specs

Crafted during a pivotal time when fiberglass was transforming boatbuilding, the Sigma 38 stands as a testament to its designers' vision and its builder's commitment to quality. Its robust construction and thoughtful layout made it a versatile yacht, capable of efficient racing while still providing the comforts necessary for extended voyages.

History and Design

The production of the S&S Sigma 38 by Cheoy Lee Shipyard commenced in 1967. While a definitive production end year for this specific S&S model is not widely reported, examples are documented from at least 1968 and 1969, indicating a period of active construction. The builder, Cheoy Lee, a family-owned shipyard with a history stretching back to 1870, was a pioneer in the marine industry, notably being among the first to extensively utilize fiberglass as a boatbuilding material in the 1960s. This innovative spirit, combined with a commitment to robust construction and fine craftsmanship, defined Cheoy Lee's manufacturing ethos during the era of the Sigma 38.

Sparkman & Stephens' design philosophy for the Sigma 38 was clear: to create "basically a performance boat, designed to win," with a layout that supported efficient racing. However, equal attention was paid to "cruising comfort and the other details that makes 'boat' a 'yacht'." This dual purpose aimed to satisfy both the competitive sailor and the discerning cruiser, a hallmark of many successful S&S designs. The vessel features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, which were advanced design elements for improving handling and control.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The S&S Sigma 38 boasts characteristics that, for its time, delivered a compelling balance of performance and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.84, she exhibits moderate light-air performance. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 35.2%, suggests a yacht with respectable stiffness, capable of standing up to a good breeze without excessive heel, though not classified as exceptionally stiff compared to some dedicated offshore designs.

However, the boat's displacement to length ratio, calculated at a high 408.38, indicates a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This seemingly contrasts with its designation as a "performance boat" but highlights the evolution of sailing yacht design; in the 1960s, this level of displacement combined with a fin keel and skeg rudder was considered high-performance for a capable offshore racer-cruiser. Owners have generally praised the Sigma 38 for its "good turn of speed" and robust build. While capable of being single-handed, some suggest she is "happiest with a couple of helping hands" due to the size of her sail plan. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to responsive handling and directional stability, particularly in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Cheoy Lee S&S Sigma 38 is characterized by a "lavish use of rubbed teak," lending a sense of richness and warmth to the interior, a common and prized feature of Cheoy Lee yachts from this period. The interior layout was designed with both racing efficiency and cruising comfort in mind. A "large dining table with bottle locker is standard," suggesting a well-appointed main salon suitable for entertaining.

A key design feature is the installation of the engine "below the cabin sole," which significantly opens up the aft areas that might otherwise be occupied by a bulky engine box. The design allows for substantial sleeping accommodation, with some configurations reportedly fitting up to nine crew members, indicative of a layout that likely includes a V-berth forward, convertible salon settees, and quarter berths aft. However, some owners have noted that the interior, while comfortable, "does not have huge amounts of stowage" for extended cruising needs, a common trade-off in designs prioritizing performance and open living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee S&S Sigma 38 generally regard the vessel highly, often praising its robust construction and overall reliability. The boat has developed a reputation for "toughness" and offering a "good turn of speed," making it a versatile choice for a range of sailing activities. Many owners attest to its durability, with reports indicating "no huge problems have come to light despite many thousands of miles sailed," suggesting a well-engineered and solidly built yacht. While individual maintenance issues can arise on any vessel of its age, the fundamental integrity of the S&S Sigma 38 appears to be a consistent strength cited by its owners.