Contessa 38 (Alan-Williams) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Contessa 38 (Alan-Williams) emerged from the Jeremy Rogers Ltd. yard in Lymington, UK, with production commencing in 1981. This model was designed by David Alan-Williams, who envisioned a yacht that expanded upon the successful characteristics of the smaller Contessa 32, offering a more substantial cruising experience. Although contemporary accounts described her as a "stretched Contessa 32," her design aimed to maintain the revered sea-kindly motion and weatherly performance associated with the brand. A testament to her design and build quality, eight of the total 28 units built served as training yachts for the Royal Navy.

The early 1980s, when the Contessa 38 was in production, proved to be a challenging period for the British boat manufacturing industry, with Jeremy Rogers Ltd. itself facing liquidation and subsequently rebuilding. This economic climate may have contributed to the relatively limited production run of the Contessa 38. Following Jeremy Rogers' liquidation, the design was reportedly reworked and later produced as the Dawn 39, which featured notable improvements such as wheel steering.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contessa 38 (Alan-Williams) is characterized by its deep, encapsulated-lead fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, contributing significantly to its sailing prowess. With a calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.29, she is identified as a steady cruising yacht rather than a light-air performance boat, requiring a reasonable breeze to truly come alive. However, once underway, she is noted for making smooth progress, capable of achieving speeds around 8 knots with eased sheets and maintaining daily runs of 150 miles or more on passage.

Her ballast to displacement ratio, an impressive 48.53%, indicates a very stiff and stable vessel, well-equipped to stand up to significant wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of 261.33 further categorizes her as a medium-heavy displacement cruiser, reinforcing her reputation for being exceptionally robust and comfortable offshore. Owners and reviewers describe her as a weatherly and sea-kindly boat, adept at long beats to windward. While the standard tiller steering is long and responsive, it can be quite heavy on the helm at times. Despite this, the boat is generally considered forgiving enough for a shorthanded crew.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her nearly 40-foot length overall, the Contessa 38 (Alan-Williams) features an interior layout that reflects her era's design priorities for offshore capability over maximizing volume. Contemporary reviews noted that her long, lean hull, while beneficial for performance, meant the accommodation might not be as expansive as some later designs of similar size. The galley is described as "decidedly cramped," and the saloon is considered "on the small side".

However, the layout is generally considered functional for offshore work. The heads compartment is situated amidships, and the boat typically features a "reasonably generous aftercabin," although it could feel cramped if a second WC was fitted. Interior finish quality is a strong point, with the impressive standard and signature laminated cappings being a Jeremy Rogers trademark. The galley, though compact, is well-appointed with twin sinks, ample lockerage, and work surfaces, with options for an ice box convertible to a freezer and a robust Taylor 040 cooker. The chart table is spacious and comfortable, designed to accommodate a keen navigator's equipment. Plumbing is built to Lloyd's standards, featuring bronze sea-cocks, a standard Lavac head, and a hot water shower. Both electric and manual foot pumps are typically provided for the fresh water system. Access to the engine from three sides is excellent, though the engine box itself is somewhat bulky.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and reviewers of the Contessa 38 (Alan-Williams) consistently praise her robust construction and exceptional seakeeping abilities. Her ability to handle rough conditions with a comfortable and forgiving motion is a frequently highlighted strength. The build quality, particularly the high-quality resins, mat, and balsa core, ensures a well-insulated and sound-deadened interior, preventing condensation. The well-equipped galley and chart table are also appreciated for serious cruising.

On the other hand, a recurring point of discussion among owners and in reviews is the perceived lack of interior volume compared to more modern designs, with the galley and saloon being noted as modest in size. The tiller steering, while providing direct feedback, can be heavy, especially in challenging conditions. The aftercabin, while present, may feel confined, particularly if equipped with an additional head. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Contessa 38 maintains a reputation as a solid, capable, and enduring cruising yacht, particularly favored by those who prioritize offshore performance and traditional build quality.