Etap 38I Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Etap 38I entered production in 1989 and continued its run until 1997, building upon Etap Yachting's established reputation for quality and safety. Designed by Mortain & Mavrikios, known for creating elegant and efficient cruising yachts, the 38I embodies a design philosophy that marries comfortable living spaces with solid performance. A defining characteristic of all Etap yachts, including the 38I, is their unique double-hull construction, featuring an inner and outer hull with injected foam in between. This not only provides exceptional buoyancy, rendering the boats virtually unsinkable, but also offers superior insulation, reducing condensation and enhancing interior comfort. The 38I showcases a distinctive flush deck design and is equipped with a wing keel, aimed at providing a good balance of stability and performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.38, the Etap 38I exhibits moderate performance, capable of moving well in a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in lighter airs or demanding in heavy gusts. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.34 indicates a stable and reasonably stiff vessel, designed to stand up to a good breeze. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 193.3 suggests a moderately light displacement for its size, contributing to a responsive feel without sacrificing the comfort expected of a cruiser.

Sailors consistently praise the Etap 38I for its handling, describing it as "sea-kindly" and performing well on all points of sail. The robust masthead rig, often complemented by a fully battened mainsail, contributes to its efficient sail plan. Furthermore, its fin keel provides splendid maneuverability, enhancing the boat's responsiveness under sail. Owners report that the vessel handles very well at sea, offering a sense of security even in challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Etap 38I is renowned for its bright, spacious, and ergonomic design, often featuring a warm oak finish and cork flooring. The double-skinned hull not only contributes to safety but also provides excellent insulation, ensuring a drier and more comfortable living environment by preventing condensation.

The layout typically includes two cabins and can berth up to seven individuals. A spacious double berth is found in the aft cabin, complemented by a smaller double berth in the forepeak. The saloon offers two additional sea-berths, providing flexible sleeping arrangements. Key features of the saloon include a well-appointed chart table and a generous headroom of approximately 1.95 meters (6.4 feet). The design incorporates "enormous skylights" and a "panoramic forward window," which flood the interior with natural light and maintain a strong connection with the outside world. While generally praised for its comfortable interior, some owners note that stowing space below deck can be somewhat less than expected for a boat of this size.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Etap 38I frequently laud its robust construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, often describing it as a "fast, sturdy and comfortable cruiser". The highly regarded "unsinkable" feature provides significant peace of mind, making it a highly desirable choice for safety-conscious sailors. The boat's ability to handle well in diverse conditions is a recurring theme among owner reviews, with many appreciating its sea-kindliness and reliable performance. While specific widespread weaknesses are not commonly reported, as with any vessel of its age, potential buyers should consider the general maintenance requirements associated with older boats. Overall, the Etap 38I maintains a strong reputation for its unique blend of safety, comfort, and engaging sailing characteristics.