Nantucket Island 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Nantucket Island 38 commenced in 1982. The builder, Ho Hsing F.R.P. Co. Ltd., emerged as a significant player in the Taiwanese marine industry, which gained global recognition for its fiberglass yacht production. The company specialized in solid fiberglass construction and was particularly noted for its "legendary teak joinery work."

The design philosophy behind the Nantucket Island 38 stems from Peter Cole's expertise as a yacht designer and sailmaker, known for his "cruiser/racer designs" that balance performance with sailing pleasure. Cole's designs for Ho Hsing F.R.P. Co. Ltd. emphasized seaworthiness and offshore capability, aligning with the Nantucket Island 38's designation as a "Bluewater Offshore Cruiser." This focus ensured a robust and reliable vessel suitable for challenging conditions. While primarily built as a masthead sloop, the Nantucket Island 38 was also available as a ketch and is sometimes referred to as the Odyssey 38 or Dolphin 38.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Nantucket Island 38 exhibits characteristics well-suited for a stable and comfortable cruising experience. Her Sail Area to Displacement ratio of 14.84 suggests she is a moderate-to-heavy displacement vessel that, while not a light-air speedster, is "slightly under powered" in very light conditions but performs well when the wind fills in.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of 41.50% is notably high, indicating exceptional stiffness and stability, contributing to an "excellent righting capability." This robust stability allows her to stand up to more wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a Displacement to Length ratio of 278.97, the Nantucket Island 38 falls into the moderate weight category, balancing robust construction with reasonable speed. Anecdotal reports suggest the boat is "fairly fast" and "easy to sail," offering a "comfortable" and "safe" experience even "when the going gets tough." The fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder contributes to directional stability while allowing for maneuverability in tighter spaces, such as harbors.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Nantucket Island 38 is highly praised for its "incredible" and functional layout, often described as having "amazing" Taiwanese craftsmanship and looking like "floating furniture." The use of "solid teak" paneling and joinery throughout creates a warm, nautical ambiance.

The forward cabin typically features a V-berth with a "matchwood and teak lined" finish, complemented by lockers and shelves. A head compartment with a basin, lockers, and a pull-out shower that drains into a sump is located aft of the forward cabin. The main saloon is a highlight, featuring a settee/sea berth to starboard and a U-shaped dining area to port. The rectangular oak veneered table can seat four to six and can be extended or dropped down to form a double bed. Brass oil lamps and reading lamps enhance the cozy atmosphere. Good ventilation is provided by a center hatch and operable stainless steel port lights.

A nicely appointed galley is situated to port, equipped with light-colored laminate countertops, built-in access to fridge and freezer compartments, a two-burner stove with an oven, and a double sink, all complemented by ample storage in lockers and drawers. Opposite the galley to starboard is a forward-facing chart table, serving as a hub for electrical panels and navigation systems. The aft master stateroom is a private retreat, featuring a large Pullman berth to starboard and a sofa/loveseat to port with a vanity area and mirror. This cabin boasts extensive storage with large hanging lockers and drawers, all impeccably finished in solid teak. An additional large locker with a wash basin and pull-out shower, cleverly designed to be a second shower area, is found just forward of the aft cabin. The Nantucket Island 38 offers generous tankage with 110 gallons of water capacity and 80 gallons of fuel. Saloon headroom is approximately 6 feet, 0.7 inches (1.85 meters).

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nantucket Island 38 consistently commend its robust construction and comfort, especially in challenging sea conditions. Many consider them "sought-after cruising boats" that are "rarely available on the market," which speaks to their enduring quality and owner satisfaction. The emphasis on solid fiberglass construction and quality teak joinery work has contributed to their longevity, making them appealing to those seeking a durable vessel for offshore adventures. Discussions in online sailing communities affirm that the Nantucket Island 38 is "well engineered, creatively designed, excellent build quality, well founded, fairly fast, and easy to sail," with many owners expressing their fondness for the model.