Moody S38 Information, Review, Specs

The Moody S38 was introduced in September 1995 and ceased production in June 1998, with all 60 units built by Marine Projects (Plymouth) Limited. During this era, Moody Yachts, a brand synonymous with quality and seaworthiness since its origins in 1827, maintained its reputation for robust construction and comfortable cruising yachts. The company had transitioned from traditional timber to GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction, embracing modern materials while upholding its commitment to durability and craftsmanship.

The S38 was designed by Bill Dixon of Dixon Yacht Design, a prolific naval architect who significantly shaped Moody's fiberglass-era cruisers from the 1980s and 1990s, 20]. Dixon's brief for the S38 was to create an aft cockpit performance cruiser, distinguishing it from many of Moody's earlier center-cockpit models. This design philosophy aimed to blend volume and comfort with enhanced sailing performance, a hallmark of Dixon's contributions to the brand. The S38 was offered with either a masthead or a fractional rig, providing options for different sailing preferences, and was also available with two distinct interior layouts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody S38, with a length overall of 39.0 feet and a waterline length of 32.5 feet, combines a relatively long waterline with moderate displacement for its size. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.18 suggests a balanced performance profile, capable of performing well in a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy gusts. This ratio places her firmly in the category of a capable cruising yacht.

With a ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.34, the S38 exhibits a moderate degree of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. This is complemented by a displacement to length ratio of approximately 248, classifying her as a medium-displacement cruiser. This indicates a solid, well-built vessel that offers a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity, rather than a lightweight racer.

Owners and testers have described the Moody S38 as responsive and powerful under sail, demonstrating good handling characteristics. Yachting Monthly, upon testing a similarly specified S38, found her to be a "good all-round family cruising boat with a good turn of speed". The fin keel and spade rudder contribute to her maneuverability and directional stability. She is well-suited for both coastal cruising and longer passages, proving capable in offshore conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moody S38 is designed for extended cruising comfort, renowned for its spaciousness and quality finish. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design typically prioritizes ample interior volume, a common trait in Bill Dixon's Moody designs. The S38 was offered with two different interior layouts. One popular configuration featured a large aft owner's suite, while another offered twin aft cabins, allowing for flexibility based on owner preferences.

A common layout would include a spacious saloon, often featuring new flooring in later years, providing comfortable seating and dining areas. The galley is typically well-appointed for liveaboard cruising, and the presence of two heads in a 38-footer is often highlighted by owners as a significant advantage. Owners have praised the general finish and the feeling of quality below deck, consistent with Moody's reputation for traditional joinery and robust construction. The yacht is designed to comfortably accommodate up to seven crew members, featuring three double berths in some configurations. Owners also appreciate the ample storage throughout the vessel, though ventilation has been noted as an area that could sometimes be improved, particularly in older center-cockpit Moody 38s.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody S38 consistently praise its solid construction and the overall quality expected from the Moody brand. Many appreciate the boat's comfortable motion in a seaway and its capability for offshore passages, with some owners happily crossing the Atlantic. The responsive handling and good sailing performance are frequently mentioned strengths, making it a delight to sail in various conditions. The spacious interior and two-head layout are particularly valued for extended cruising and accommodating multiple guests.

While generally well-regarded, some common points of discussion or potential maintenance areas among owners include the attachment point of the forestay, which some owners have rectified. Additionally, in boats sailed hard, the plinths for the genoa sheet turning blocks can sometimes be an issue. However, these are often minor points in the context of the S38's overall reputation for reliability and robust build. Owners often express strong confidence in the Moody brand's durability and suitability for serious cruising.