Maxi 380 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Maxi 380 in 1995, with its production run concluding in 1997, reflects Maxi Yachts' enduring legacy of quality Swedish yacht building. The company, founded by Pelle Petterson in 1972, has always adhered to his singular design influence, with all Maxi models bearing his hallmark. Petterson's design philosophy centers on achieving a harmonious balance of comfort, safety, and speed, resulting in vessels known for their well-designed and robust construction. The Maxi 380 specifically builds upon the successful foundation of the Maxi 38, distinguishing itself with an increased sail area and a deeper fin keel, indicating a focus on improved upwind performance and reduced leeway compared to its predecessor. The hull is constructed from solid fiberglass, a common and durable material choice for Maxi Yachts, emphasizing robust build quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Maxi 380's design ratios provide insight into its intended sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.74, the Maxi 380 suggests a design capable of respectable performance in lighter air conditions, making it responsive to subtle breezes while still being manageable as winds increase. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 35% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind before requiring reefs. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 141.25 positions the Maxi 380 as a moderately light displacement cruiser, suggesting a design that prioritizes a balance of speed and comfort rather than being a heavy, traditional displacement vessel. One review notes that the Maxi 380+ (a closely related model) is considered more comfortable than 24% of similar sailboat designs, pointing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its handling were not readily available, the combination of its fin keel and spade rudder points to a design that would typically offer good maneuverability and responsiveness under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts and specific descriptions of the Maxi 380's accommodations are not widely available in accessible public search results. However, consistent with Maxi Yachts' overall design philosophy, it can be inferred that the interior prioritizes comfort and practical use of space, reflecting the brand's reputation for well-designed yachts suitable for cruising. Maxi Yachts typically utilize quality materials in their interior finishes, often featuring wood trim alongside fiberglass, aiming for a balance of durability and aesthetic appeal. Given its 40-foot length, a typical layout would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a galley, a head compartment, and potentially aft cabins or quarter berths, offering ample living space for its size. The emphasis on comfort and safety inherent in Pelle Petterson's designs suggests thoughtful consideration for onboard livability, storage, and ventilation, contributing to a pleasant cruising experience.