Irwin 38 Citation Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Irwin 38 Citation in 1986 falls within the latter years of Irwin Yachts' operational history, as the company, founded by Ted Irwin in 1966, ultimately ceased operations in 1992. Ted Irwin, a designer known for his diverse portfolio, aimed to produce boats that appealed to both racers and cruisers, emphasizing comfort, practicality, and livability., 1] The Citation series, including the 38, specifically catered to performance-oriented sailors, reflecting Irwin's personal interest in racing. The 38 Citation itself is characterized as a sleek, cruiser/racer design, influenced by the International Offshore Rule (IOR), which was prevalent in yacht design during that era.

Constructed from solid fiberglass for both its hull and deck, the Irwin 38 Citation was built to be a robust vessel. While the standard configuration featured a fin keel with a maximum draft of 6.92 feet, a significant variation offered a shoal draft option of 4.92 feet, utilizing a wing keel. This shoal draft option provided a distinct advantage for access to shallower anchorages and cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 38 Citation exhibits sailing characteristics typical of a moderate displacement performance cruiser of its era. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.02, she is moderately powered, capable of respectable performance without being overly sensitive to light air. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 36.7% indicates a good level of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze effectively. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 232.5 classifies her as a moderate weight sailboat, balancing speed potential with comfortable motion.

In terms of handling, the Irwin 38 Citation generally provides a positive experience. She is noted for her "good sailing characteristics" and is described as "well behaved with no obvious flaws or other problems." Owners often find she has "the feel of a well-designed boat," offering a balanced and predictable helm. Her fin keel and spade rudder contribute to good maneuverability and responsiveness, which are desirable traits for both cruising and occasional racing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Irwin 38 Citation is designed for comfort and practicality, making it suitable for extended cruising. The cabin layout is generally considered "reasonable, functional, and big" for a boat of its size. The interior typically features "ample teak joinery and paneling," creating a warm and traditional nautical ambiance.

The layout commonly includes two cabins, offering sleeping capacity for four individuals. While specific headroom details are not widely documented, the emphasis on comfortable accommodations suggests a livable space. Owners can expect a spacious cockpit for entertaining, and a well-equipped galley below, contributing to a delightful sailing and living experience on board.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 38 Citation generally regard it as a "good boat." They frequently appreciate its design as a "sleek and cruiser/racer" that provides a solid platform for both coastal and longer passages.

However, as with many production boats of its vintage, some common issues have been noted by owners. A recurring concern relates to potential corrosion problems with the original engine harness, often requiring replacement. Additionally, some members of the Irwin Citation series have been reported to experience issues with the hull-deck joint, where leaks can develop due to the original construction methods, which can be challenging and costly to repair. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the active community of Irwin owners underscores the enduring appeal and practicality of these vessels, many of which continue to be enjoyed by cruisers today.