Contessa 38 (S&S) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Contessa 38 (S&S) was rooted in the competitive IOR racing scene of the early 1970s. Sparkman & Stephens, a firm synonymous with successful racing and cruising designs, developed this model as a production One-Tonner, evolving from their custom "Lightnin' Design". Jeremy Rogers Ltd., the builder, had already established a formidable reputation during this era for producing robust, seaworthy, and beautifully finished yachts, having achieved significant success with models like the Contessa 26 and the iconic Contessa 32. During the 1970s, Jeremy Rogers Ltd. experienced explosive growth, operating from multiple purpose-built factories in Lymington and employing nearly 200 individuals, a testament to their commitment to quality craftsmanship.

The Contessa 38 (S&S) was unique in its brief production history. It was discontinued quickly, reportedly due to concerns raised by Nautor Swan, another prominent builder of S&S designs, who believed the Contessa 38 design impinged on their exclusivity agreement for European-built production One-Tonners, particularly in relation to their own Swan 38. This highlights the competitive environment of IOR racing and the high regard for S&S designs. While the standard rig was a masthead sloop, some vessels were fitted with an inner forestay, allowing for a cutter-style setup.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contessa 38 (S&S) boasts specifications that translate into a capable and spirited sailing performance. With a reported sail area of 622 sq ft and a displacement of 15,500 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio is approximately 15.92. This indicates a yacht with moderate sail power, suggesting it will perform well in a range of conditions but may not be a dedicated light-air specialist.

A notable characteristic of the Contessa 38 (S&S) is its high Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.516. This significant ballast percentage, combined with its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, contributes to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to strong winds and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 290.86, places it in the heavier, more traditional cruiser category for its size, further supporting its reputation for solid, seaworthy performance rather than extreme light-displacement racing.

Owners and reviewers praise the Contessa 38 (S&S) for its excellent handling characteristics. It is described as sailing "beautifully in all conditions," being "comfortable, sea worthy and holds a bit of pace." In breezier conditions with a reefed main and staysail, the yacht is noted for its ability to point high and maintain power. It tacks and tracks like a "thoroughbred," capable of reaching speeds of over 7 knots in moderate winds and maintaining easy 150-mile-plus day's runs on passage. The long, encapsulated-lead fin keel ensures a weatherly and sea-kindly motion, making light work of long beats to windward. While the standard tiller steering is responsive and transmits a solid feel from the skeg-hung rudder, some reports indicate it can become heavy on the helm, particularly with certain rig configurations.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contessa 38 (S&S) is designed for comfortable cruising, offering a layout typical of well-regarded yachts of its era. Upon descending the companionway, the galley is typically situated to port, featuring twin sinks and generous lockerage and work surfaces, with options for a robust cooker. Opposite to starboard is a spacious chart table, ample for Admiralty-sized charts and essential navigation equipment, often with a pencil recess.

The saloon, situated forward of the galley and chart table, is bright and airy, with a cutaway bulkhead that enhances the sense of space. It features a C-shaped settee around a central table to port and a straight settee to starboard. Both settees are contoured with thick backrests, and the berths can be extended with an infill to create a very large double. Outboard, pipe cots may be present, maximizing sleeping capacity.

Forward of the saloon, an enclosed head compartment is located on the port side, often featuring a hot water shower with an electric pump. The forepeak typically offers a V-berth, which can also be configured as a rope store with fold-down pipe cots. Aft of the chart table on the starboard side, a door leads to an aft cabin, which usually contains two separate pilot berths located on either side of the cockpit/engine space. This aft cabin can be somewhat cramped, especially if a second WC is fitted, with some suggesting the space could be better utilized for stowage.

Throughout the interior, the finish quality is generally impressive, reflecting Jeremy Rogers' commitment to craftsmanship. Laminated cappings are a distinctive feature and a trademark of Rogers-built yachts. The hull's construction with a balsa core ensures stiffness, insulation, and sound deadening, preventing condensation issues. All bulkheads and furniture are bonded to the hull, contributing to integral strength and panel stiffness. The yacht also features a high bridgedeck and a safe cockpit, reinforcing its suitability for offshore endeavors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contessa 38 (S&S) consistently praise its inherent seaworthiness, robust construction, and comfortable motion in a seaway. They value its ability to handle varied conditions with poise and speed, especially when sailing on the wind. The yacht is often described as "stiff and forgiving," making it suitable for shorthanded cruising.

A frequently mentioned point by owners is the boat's less-than-ideal performance when going astern under engine. Additionally, while the standard of finish is high, some owners have noted that the non-slip deck areas could be improved, suggesting that teak decking enhances both appearance and security. Despite its age, the Contessa 38 (S&S) retains a loyal following among those who appreciate its classic lines, strong build, and capable sailing characteristics, acknowledging it as a yacht designed for serious cruising and competitive racing.