Hispaniola 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Hispaniola 38 emerged from a vibrant period in Italian yacht design, with its production years spanning from 1955 to 1957. Conceived by Artu Chiggiato, the design was brought to life by Cantieri Navali D'Este, a shipyard established in Fiumicino by the esteemed master shipwright Gino D’Este in 1955. Gino D'Este, known as a "maestro d'ascia," instilled a meticulous approach to construction and finish, characteristics that would have defined vessels like the Hispaniola 38 during this era of traditional wood construction. Chiggiato's design philosophy for the Hispaniola 38 leaned towards speed, as evidenced by its notably slim hull, differentiating it from many contemporary designs and suggesting an emphasis on performance. The choice of a long keel further underscored a design aimed at solid tracking and seakindliness, hallmarks of classic offshore cruisers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hispaniola 38, with its cutter rigging and long keel, was designed with a focus on manageable sailing and offshore capability. A cutter rig effectively breaks down the total sail area into smaller, more easily handled sails, a configuration often favored for extended voyages and varying conditions. The Hispaniola 38 boasts a reported sail area of 665 square feet, contributing to its lively performance potential. While specific displacement figures are not consistently available, the design is characterized by a "significantly more speedy hull design," suggesting a vessel that is more slender and performance-oriented than many of its counterparts. This lean hull form, combined with a calculated hull speed of 7.17 knots, implies a boat capable of respectable speeds in suitable conditions. Owners generally find the Hispaniola 38 to offer an above-average level of comfort compared to similar sailboats, indicating a stable and pleasant motion at sea. The long keel provides excellent directional stability, making her a predictable and reassuring vessel in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

As a wooden yacht from the mid-1950s, the interior of the Hispaniola 38 would typically reflect the craftsmanship and design sensibilities of its era. While specific layout details are not widely documented, a vessel of nearly 39 feet overall length would likely feature a traditional arrangement optimized for comfortable cruising. Expect a classic V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, and a central drop-leaf table. The galley would likely be positioned to one side, offering functional, albeit compact, facilities, while a dedicated head compartment would be situated for convenience. Interiors of Cantieri Navali D'Este yachts from this period would generally feature rich wood finishes, such as mahogany or teak, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Storage solutions, though perhaps less voluminous than modern designs, would be integrated throughout, making efficient use of the available space. Ventilation would typically rely on traditional deck hatches and portlights.