Northeast 38-3 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Northeast 38 series began in 1962, with the initial design by William H. Tripp Jr., an architect celebrated for his successful racing yachts that still maintained comfortable cruising capabilities. LeComte Yachts, founded by Adolf “Dolf” LeComte, had by this time fully embraced fiberglass construction, beginning with the Medalist 33 in 1961. This shift allowed LeComte to combine the durability and reduced maintenance of fiberglass with their unwavering commitment to high-quality finishes, solid construction, and elegant designs. LeComte became particularly known for building solid-glass hulls and utilizing Airex-cored decks for strength and rigidity.

The Northeast 38-3 emerged as a later iteration in the series, produced from 1969 to 1971. A notable design evolution in the 38-3, also known as the Mk III, was the introduction of a separate spade rudder and a mast positioned further aft, aiming to enhance handling and performance. This reflected Tripp's philosophy of blending graceful lines with competitive sailing ability, a hallmark of designs from the era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The LeComte Northeast 38-3, with a length overall of 38.25 feet and a waterline length of 26.67 feet, is a well-proportioned vessel designed for capable sailing. Its total sail area of 628 square feet combined with a displacement of 13,000 pounds results in a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.10. This ratio indicates a sailboat with good light-air performance, suggesting it can move well in lighter breezes while still being manageable as the wind builds.

With a Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 305.77, the Northeast 38-3 falls into the category of a moderately heavy cruiser. This suggests a comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability and strength over outright light-weight racing performance. While specific ballast figures for the 38-3 are not consistently reported, other versions in the Northeast 38 series, like the 38-1, featured substantial ballast of around 6,000 pounds. Assuming a similar commitment to stability, this would yield a Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of approximately 46%, indicating a very stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heel.

Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Northeast 38 for its beautiful sailing characteristics and sea-kindly motion. The spade rudder, characteristic of the 38-3, likely contributes to improved maneuverability and responsiveness compared to earlier, keel-hung rudder configurations. These factors, combined with LeComte's robust construction, contribute to a reputation for being a secure and enjoyable vessel under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the LeComte Northeast 38-3 embodies the classic cruising aesthetic and practical layout typical of its era. Entry into the cabin reveals the hallmark LeComte craftsmanship, characterized by yacht-quality varnished finishes and extensive use of wood trim.

The traditional layout typically features a V-berth forward, providing a comfortable sleeping area. Aft of the V-berth, the main cabin often includes opposing settees and a drop-leaf table, creating a versatile space for dining and socializing. The galley is generally positioned to port, while a dedicated head compartment is typically found to starboard. While the exact maximum headroom is not consistently specified, the design ensures a comfortable and spacious feel, particularly for a boat of its size. Storage is generally ample throughout the boat, accommodating the needs of cruisers for extended periods afloat. The thoughtful arrangement and quality materials contribute to a welcoming and functional living space, reflecting LeComte's reputation for well-appointed interiors.