Moody 38 Eclipse Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Moody 38 Eclipse was introduced in December 1990 and remained in production until February 1992, with only 24 units built by Marine Projects (Plymouth) Limited. This period saw Moody Yachts, under the guidance of designers like Bill Dixon, solidify its reputation for volume, comfort, and sailing performance in its fiberglass era. Bill Dixon's design philosophy often centers on delivering enjoyment and satisfaction in yachting, which is evident in the thoughtful layout and functionality of the Eclipse series.

During this era, Moody maintained its long-standing ethos of robust construction and inherent seaworthiness, transitioning from traditional timber to Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) for greater efficiency and market appeal, yet preserving the brand's commitment to quality. While no specific Mark variations (MkI vs. MkII) are widely noted for the 38 Eclipse, some earlier models of the broader Eclipse range had an in-cabin steering linkage that was later modified to overcome issues. The Eclipse range was typically supplied with in-mast furling systems for ease of handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.15, the Moody 38 Eclipse offers a moderate and balanced performance profile, indicating she is a capable cruiser rather than a light-air racer. Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.40 contributes to a good degree of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up well to a breeze. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of around 217.29 classifies her as a medium-heavy displacement vessel, suggesting a comfortable and stable motion in varied sea states, a hallmark of Moody's cruising designs.

Owners and reviewers generally classify the Moody 38 Eclipse as a solid cruising boat, capable of handling offshore conditions effectively. While not designed for high-performance racing, she is reported to sail competently, with owners noting her ability to handle conditions up to a Force 4 wind with good control. Her design, featuring an inside steering position, adds to her versatility, allowing for comfortable navigation in less favorable weather.

Accommodations and Layout

The Moody 38 Eclipse, as a pilothouse model, offers a unique interior arrangement that prioritizes light and space, a key aspect of Moody's deck saloon philosophy which merges the aft cockpit and saloon for a more expansive living area. The deck layout is specifically designed to integrate the saloon, creating a seamless and bright environment.

The interior accommodation typically features two main sleeping cabins. While specific headroom details are not always listed, the pilothouse configuration generally allows for generous standing room and excellent visibility from the raised saloon area. Interiors often showcase Moody's traditional joinery and a high-quality finish, utilizing materials like wood trim to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The layout usually includes a well-appointed galley, a comfortable saloon for dining and lounging, and a head compartment, providing practical liveability for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 38 Eclipse consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, finding the boat capable and comfortable for offshore passages. Many have successfully undertaken long-distance voyages, including Atlantic crossings, attesting to the boat's robust build and its ability to handle challenging conditions. The spaciousness and maneuverability, particularly aided by features like the Perkins M60 engine and often a bow thruster, are frequently highlighted as strengths.

Regarding potential weaknesses or common maintenance issues, some owners of earlier Eclipse models have noted that the linkage for the in-cabin steering system required modification. As with any yacht of this vintage, prospective buyers are advised to inspect for common issues such as rust at the keel-to-hull joint and potential osmosis in the hull. Additionally, the original Perkins M50 engine (though the lists M60 for this model) has been mentioned as a component that may require attention. Despite these potential considerations, the strong community of Moody owners worldwide reflects a shared appreciation for these enduring yachts.