Hinckley 38 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Hinckley 38 represents a collaborative effort that brought together the design prowess of Sparkman & Stephens and Hinckley's meticulous finishing. Sparkman & Stephens' design #1903 served as the foundational hull, a versatile form that was also utilized for other boats, such as the Hughes 38-2 and Hughes 38-3. For the Hinckley 38, the hulls were specifically produced by Hughes Boatworks of Canada, with Hinckley undertaking the crucial deck and finish work in their Maine facility. This production model underscored Hinckley's focus on delivering a high-quality yacht, even when leveraging external hull production.

During this era, Hinckley Yachts was already a pioneer in the adoption of fiberglass as a primary boatbuilding material, having notably introduced the fiberglass Bermuda 40 in 1959. This foresight ensured that the Hinckley 38 benefited from the durability and strength offered by fiberglass construction, aligning with the company's ethos of building robust vessels designed to withstand demanding marine environments. The company's commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design was applied to the interior and exterior finishing, creating a yacht that embodied luxury and functionality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hinckley 38 exhibits sailing characteristics well-suited for a serious cruiser-racer of its time, prioritizing stability and comfort in varying conditions. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.18, she possesses a decent sail plan relative to her weight, suggesting capable performance in lighter air while maintaining the power needed for heavier breezes.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, a robust 0.43, indicates a highly stable and stiff vessel. This significant ballast allows the Hinckley 38 to stand up well to a strong wind, translating sail power into forward motion rather than excessive heel. Owners have noted that while she may initially feel "fairly tender," typical of boats of her era, she is "designed to lay over and go up wind," implying that she heels to an efficient angle and then firms up, providing powerful windward performance. Her substantial Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 669, further underlines her heavy displacement, contributing to a comfortable and seakindly motion, particularly offshore. She is generally considered to have "great sailing ability".

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data for the Hinckley 38 is not extensively detailed, her design suggests a comfortable living space beneath decks. The interior features a traditional layout, typically including a saloon with "sea berths outboard", designed for comfortable living and sleeping, even in a seaway. Given Hinckley's reputation for luxury and craftsmanship, the interior finish would have featured high-quality materials, likely extensive use of wood trim, and a thoughtful arrangement of living areas. Owners can expect well-appointed galleys, a dedicated head, and comfortable sleeping accommodations typical of a cruising yacht designed for extended periods aboard. Storage solutions would have been integrated to support offshore cruising needs.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hinckley 38 often commend its solid construction and the comfortable motion it provides in a seaway, attributes consistent with Hinckley's overall brand identity. The boat's robust build ensures a sense of security and durability, appreciated by those undertaking serious cruising. However, some discussions among owners have highlighted potential considerations, particularly regarding the cored hull construction. While one owner noted no issues, others have experienced problems related to the cored hull. As with any classic yacht, potential owners are advised to conduct thorough surveys to assess the condition of these areas.