Hans Christian 38 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Hans Christian 38 Mk II began in 1978 and continued until 1989. The builder, Hans Christian Yachts, founded by John Edwards in 1973, established a reputation for heavily built cruising sailboats constructed in Taiwan for export, prioritizing traditional aesthetics and robust construction. The design philosophy behind Hans Christian Yachts has consistently focused on seaworthiness and timeless design.

The 38 Mk II represents a distinct evolution within the Hans Christian line, differentiated from its contemporary, the Hans Christian 38T. While both models were built concurrently at different yards and shared the same designer, the 38 Mk II features a slightly different hull shape and deck layout, along with a notable increase in beam, a taller mast moved further aft, and more sail area. This design iteration aimed to enhance its sailing characteristics while maintaining the brand's core principles of durability and comfort. The standard rig for the Hans Christian 38 Mk II is a cutter, offering a versatile sail plan that breaks down the total sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, a configuration often favored for offshore sailing. Some examples of the 38 Mk II were also delivered with a ketch rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hans Christian 38 Mk II is characterized by its heavy displacement and full keel, qualities that contribute significantly to its stable and comfortable motion in open water, 5]. With a displacement of 27,500 lbs and a length on waterline of 33 feet, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio calculates to approximately 341.45. This places the vessel firmly in the heavy cruiser category, indicating a boat designed for comfort and seakindliness rather than outright speed.

The ballast-to-displacement ratio, at roughly 37.45% (10,300 lbs ballast for a 27,500 lbs displacement), suggests good stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. While not indicating extreme stiffness, it points to a balanced design capable of handling varying conditions. The sail area to displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.64 reflects a sail plan that, while substantial, is consistent with a heavy cruising boat. This suggests decent performance in lighter airs, though it is not optimized for high speeds. The cutter rig further enhances its handling characteristics by allowing for easier management of sail area, particularly in stronger winds, a benefit widely appreciated by those undertaking long voyages. Owners often describe Hans Christian yachts as reliable boats, well-suited for extended periods at sea.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hans Christian 38 Mk II is designed to maximize comfort and livability for extended cruising, a hallmark of the Hans Christian brand. While specific detailed layouts can vary between individual vessels due to owner customization over decades, typical arrangements prioritize interior volume and storage. Given the boat's substantial beam of 12.5 feet, the interior generally feels spacious and robust.

Common interior features found on Hans Christian models include extensive use of rich wood trim, often teak, contributing to a warm, traditional ambiance. The layout typically includes a comfortable V-berth forward, a head compartment, a spacious salon, a functional galley, and often quarter berths or a dedicated navigation station. Ventilation is usually well-addressed with numerous opening ports and hatches, crucial for comfort during warmer cruising conditions. Owners often praise the well-thought-out interiors of Hans Christian boats, which are designed to serve as dependable homes on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Hans Christian 38 Mk II yachts consistently praise their solid construction and their comfortable motion in a seaway, attributes that align perfectly with the brand's emphasis on robust, liveaboard-capable designs. These vessels are frequently chosen by sailors looking for a well-built platform for extended cruising and are often viewed as excellent candidates for refit projects due to their inherent durability.

The enduring appeal of the Hans Christian 38 Mk II is underscored by a vibrant and dedicated global community of owners, exemplified by online forums and organizations like hanschristian.org. This strong community provides invaluable support, shared knowledge, and camaraderie, reflecting a deep appreciation for the classic design, solid construction, and adventurous spirit that these distinctive cruising boats embody. While common maintenance issues for vessels of this age typically involve original equipment and systems requiring updates or refurbishment, the core hull and deck integrity are generally well-regarded.