Grand Soleil 38 (Finot) Information, Review, Specs

This model, built with solid fiberglass hull and deck, represents Grand Soleil's commitment to robust construction and refined design. It was conceived as a versatile cruiser, capable of spirited performance while offering a comfortable platform for extended voyages.

History and Design

The Grand Soleil 38 (Finot) entered production in 1990 and was built until 1994. During this era, Cantiere del Pardo, the parent company of Grand Soleil, was solidifying its reputation for producing yachts that married Italian design excellence with robust performance and the use of high-quality materials. The collaboration with Finot / Conq Assoc., including Jean Marie Finot and Pascal Conq, was instrumental in shaping this model. The design philosophy behind the Grand Soleil 38 aimed to deliver a yacht that excelled in performance, livability, seaworthiness, and comfort, all within a single package. The firm of Finot-Conq is known for its rational and elegant designs, which is evident in the classic lines and balanced nature of the Grand Soleil 38.

While no distinct "MkI" or "MkII" versions were widely noted during its production run, the Grand Soleil 38 did offer variations primarily concerning its draft. The standard draft was approximately 6.89 feet (2.10 meters), with an optional deeper keel extending to 7.55 feet (2.30 meters). This deeper keel option further enhanced its upwind performance and stability for those seeking a more race-oriented setup.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 38 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers a reasonably good performance under sail. Its design ratios offer insight into its capabilities. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 17.58, she possesses sufficient canvas to perform well in lighter air, yet is balanced enough to be manageable as the wind builds.

The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) stands at around 0.353. While not exceptionally high, this figure suggests a good degree of initial stiffness, indicating the boat is stable and capable of standing up to a reasonable amount of wind before excessive heeling. Owners and reviews generally describe the Grand Soleil 38 as a stable and stiff vessel with good righting capability.

The Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of about 239.9 places the Grand Soleil 38 firmly in the category of a performance-oriented cruiser. This suggests a boat that is neither excessively heavy nor ultralight, striking a balance that allows for comfortable cruising while still maintaining a lively turn of speed. Anecdotal accounts often praise its good pace in various conditions and its elegant motion through the water. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration contribute to its responsiveness and maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom figures are not readily available in detailed specifications, the Grand Soleil 38's interior is generally described as having a classic layout that prioritizes comfort and functionality. Owners could typically choose between a two-cabin or an optional three-cabin configuration, with the latter often featuring a spacious owner's cabin located forward.

The interior joinery typically reflects Grand Soleil's reputation for uncompromised quality, blending extensive construction experience with an emphasis on comfort and refined aesthetics. Materials often included wood trim and blue fabric upholstery, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ample storage is generally a hallmark of Grand Soleil designs, and ventilation would have been provided by deck hatches and ports, contributing to a comfortable living space at anchor or in port. The deck features teak in the cockpit and sidedecks, a common high-quality finish for yachts of this caliber.