Moody 38 Information, Review, Specs

The Moody 38 emerged during a period when Moody Yachts, with roots tracing back to a repair yard established in 1827, had firmly established itself as a leading builder of quality cruising yachts. By the time of the Moody 38's introduction in 1991, the company had transitioned from traditional timber construction to GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), embracing modern materials while maintaining its core ethos of durability and craftsmanship. The Moody 38 was an evolutionary development of Moody's design principles, embodying their definition of performance cruising.

Bill Dixon, a key designer for Moody in the fiberglass era, shaped many of their successful aft cockpit and center cockpit cruisers, known for their volume, comfort, and sailing performance. Dixon's design philosophy often centers on creating high-quality sailing yachts that offer a fine balance of performance and comfort. Throughout its production run, the Moody 38 offered flexibility to owners, being available with both standard fin keel and shoal draft keel options, with the latter drawing 4.5 feet compared to the standard 5.75 feet. This adaptability further enhanced its appeal to a broader cruising market.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody 38, with a length overall of 37.5 feet and a waterline length of 31.5 feet, combines a moderate displacement with a well-proportioned sail plan, resulting in a balanced and capable performer. Her displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 257 suggests she is a medium-displacement cruiser, offering a comfortable motion in a seaway without sacrificing too much speed. The sail area-to-displacement ratio of around 14.85 indicates that while she may not excel in very light airs, she is likely to perform well and be easily driven in moderate to heavier winds. Furthermore, a ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.38 points to good stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze effectively and provide a secure feeling underway.

Owners frequently praise the Moody 38's handling characteristics, describing her as responsive and a delight to sail in a variety of conditions. She is considered a "fast" boat that delivers on Moody's promise of performance cruising. Many anecdotal accounts highlight her ability to handle offshore conditions very well, making her suitable for extended voyages. The Moody 38 is often characterized as a good all-rounder, capable of safely taking families offshore or simply providing comfortable coastal pottering.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the absence of specific headroom figures in the provided data, the Moody 38 is widely recognized for its generous and thoughtfully arranged interior, a hallmark of Bill Dixon's designs for Moody. The boat typically accommodates five people in three cabins, with additional sleeping available in the saloon, making her well-suited for family cruising or entertaining guests.

A standout feature is the "cavernous aft cabin," which often includes a comfortable centreline double berth and its own en-suite heads, providing exceptional privacy and comfort, especially for the owners. This spaciousness is often a direct benefit of the center cockpit configuration, which allows for a substantial cabin beneath. The forward section of the boat usually features a double V-berth cabin and a dedicated forward heads compartment with a W/C and shower. Throughout the interior, the finish is typically of high quality, often featuring first-class teak joinery, which contributes to a warm and traditional marine ambiance. The provision of two heads in a 38-footer is considered a significant advantage by many owners, enhancing liveability on extended cruises. Good accommodations are consistently highlighted as a strong point for family sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 38 consistently commend the vessel's solid construction and its comfortable, secure motion at sea, even in challenging conditions. Many consider her a brilliant liveaboard long-term cruiser, especially for couples who occasionally host guests. Her robust build and offshore capabilities are frequently cited strengths, reinforcing Moody's reputation for building reliable bluewater yachts.

However, some common points of discussion among owners include certain maintenance considerations typical of boats of her age. A recurring issue noted by some is the limited ventilation in the galley under tropical conditions. While the specifies a Perkins engine, some owners of earlier models mention potential issues with the original Prima M50 engine, and others report the possibility of osmosis problems. The original holding tank, often around 25 liters, is sometimes considered small for extended cruising. Owners also advise checking original deck fittings, as they may require re-bedding over time to prevent leaks. The Moody Owners Association is a valuable resource for prospective and current owners, offering technical support and a forum for sharing experiences.