Moody 38-2 Information, Review, Specs

The Moody 38-2's production commenced in 2000 and concluded in 2003, continuing Moody's long-standing tradition of crafting durable and seaworthy yachts. The builder, A. H. Moody & Sons, established in 1827, developed a reputation for solid construction and a commitment to fine quality, transitioning from traditional timber to GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) to enhance production efficiency and broaden market appeal while maintaining their core values.

The design of the Moody 38-2 comes from the pen of Bill Dixon, a naval architect instrumental in shaping many of Moody's popular aft cockpit and center cockpit cruisers from the 1980s and 1990s. Dixon's design philosophy for Moody emphasized combining volume, comfort, and sailing performance, aiming to move yacht design forward with each new model., 1, 3] The 38-2 is an example of this evolutionary approach, building on earlier Moody designs. During its production run, a notable variation included a shoal draft option, featuring a bulb keel, catering to sailors needing shallower access.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody 38-2 is engineered as a capable cruiser rather than a high-performance racer. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.47, she is not designed to be a light-air speedster but can deliver respectable performance in moderate conditions. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 28.66%, indicates a moderately stiff boat, providing a comfortable motion in a seaway without being excessively tender. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 246.86 places her firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruising vessel, suggesting a solid feel and good seakeeping abilities.

Owners generally describe the Moody 38-2 as a good all-round family cruising boat, known for her solid construction. While not a sparkling race machine with pinpoint precision handling, her sailing performance is considered robust for her class, though some suggest it could be improved with an optimized sail plan. The boat is generally well-behaved, although handling in reverse can be a point of discussion among owners.

Accommodations and Layout

The Moody 38-2 is renowned for its spacious and comfortable accommodations, featuring an interior crafted with rich woodwork and finished with first-class teak joinery. The layout is optimized for both privacy and extended cruising, offering excellent ventilation throughout. A key feature often found is a three-cabin configuration, which is relatively rare for yachts of this size.

Below decks, the Moody 38-2 typically offers a comprehensive arrangement. This includes a forward cabin, a comfortable main salon, a well-appointed galley, and often a spacious owner's aft cabin. The aft cabin, in particular, is frequently praised by owners for its generous size, providing a private and inviting retreat. The thoughtful design ensures ample storage and a warm, inviting atmosphere, making the Moody 38-2 well-suited for long periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 38-2 frequently praise its solid construction and the overall comfort it provides, particularly in challenging sea conditions. Many appreciate the yacht's capability as a blue-water cruiser, reflecting Moody's reputation for building reliable vessels.

However, common discussions among owners in forums often highlight a few recurring points. Some owners have noted issues related to the original engine, such as the Prima M50. Ventilation, particularly in certain cabin areas, has also been mentioned as a concern for some older Moody 38cc models, which might be relevant for the 38-2 given their similar era. Early production boats may have had minor "teething problems," but these were reportedly corrected quickly by the builder. Despite these considerations, the strong community of Moody owners worldwide attests to the enduring appeal and quality of these yachts.