Easterly 38 Information, Review, Specs

The Easterly 38 commenced production in 1977, a period when Easterly Yachts, under the design leadership of Mike Brennan, was active in the recreational boating market, producing fiberglass monohull sailboats. Brennan, hailing from a "hardcore boating family," imbued Easterly designs with a blend of performance and comfortable cruising. Easterly Yachts' manufacturing ethos, as noted in the provided builder context, focused on solid construction and practical layouts, appealing to sailors seeking reliable vessels for coastal cruising and comfortable living aboard. The company primarily produced masthead sloops, a popular and efficient rigging choice for their size and intended use. There is no public record of significant variations like MkI or MkII during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Easterly 38 is a moderate displacement sailboat, designed with cruising in mind. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.11, the Easterly 38 is not optimized for extreme light-wind performance but is rather suited for steady progress in moderate to stronger breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.31 suggests average stiffness, providing a comfortable motion without being overly tender or excessively stiff. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 292.42 further categorizes it as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, indicating a substantial build that can handle challenging sea states. Owners and reviews generally highlight its reassuring stability and solid construction, with descriptions often emphasizing its capacity as a "cruising yacht" built for "serious cruising" and offering "reassuring stability in all conditions". The masthead sloop rig, common to Easterly designs, contributes to its straightforward and efficient sailing characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions are not widely available, the Easterly 38 is designed for comfortable cruising with a focus on practical living spaces. Based on typical designs of its era and the builder's philosophy, the interior likely features a conventional layout for a vessel of its size. Common arrangements for a 38-foot cruising sailboat would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley, and a navigation station. Quarter berths aft are also a possibility. The solid fiberglass hull suggests a robust structure, and interiors from Easterly Yachts were generally known for their practical layouts. Examples of available models indicate features like diesel cabin heaters, inverters, and solar panels, suggesting owners often equip them for extended comfort and self-sufficiency. The boat's generous water capacity of 66 gallons further supports its cruising intentions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners often praise the Easterly 38 for its solid construction and robust build quality, a consistent theme across Easterly Yachts' models. Discussions in online forums indicate that while some boats might require significant refit due to their age, the underlying structure is generally sound, making them good candidates for restoration. Owners appreciate the Easterly 38's suitability for serious cruising, highlighting its stability and predictable handling in various conditions. Common upgrades or refits mentioned by owners include modernizing navigation equipment, updating electrical systems, and replacing or servicing heads. While specific recurring "common problems" are not extensively detailed in broad search results, the general consensus points to a durable vessel that, with proper maintenance typical for an older fiberglass boat, offers a rewarding cruising experience.