Northwest 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Northwest 38 began in 1972, marking Northwest Yacht Constructors Ltd.'s entry into larger cruising sailboat production. Ted Moreau's design for the Northwest 38 focused on creating a "significantly more speedy hull design" for its class, blending performance with the practicalities of cruising. During this era, Northwest Yacht Constructors Ltd. prioritized durable, lower-maintenance fiberglass construction over traditional wood, aiming to deliver robust and capable yachts for their owners. While the specific production run details after its 1972 debut are not exhaustively documented, the company's known models span from 1972 to 1983, suggesting the Northwest 38 remained a significant offering during that period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Northwest 38's design specifications offer insight into its anticipated sailing characteristics. With a displacement of 13,000 pounds and a waterline length of 32.25 feet, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio calculates to approximately 173. This places the Northwest 38 on the lighter side of moderate displacement, indicating a design geared towards respectable speed for a cruising yacht of its size.

However, its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at around 25.3%, which is considered relatively low. This suggests that while the boat may be agile, it might exhibit a more tender motion in heavier winds compared to vessels with a higher ballast ratio, requiring quicker reefing or a more active hand on the helm to maintain comfort and control. The reported total sail area of 546.6 square feet gives the Northwest 38 a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.7. This ratio indicates that the Northwest 38 carries a modest amount of sail for its displacement, suggesting it may perform best in moderate to stronger winds and could require a larger Genoa or light air sails to excel in lighter conditions. Despite these ratios, reviews suggest the Northwest 38 combines good sailing performance with comfortable accommodations.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom figures are not readily available, the Northwest 38 is described as offering "comfortable accommodations," indicative of a well-proportioned cruising interior for its length. Reviews highlight that the interior benefits from traditional elements like a "beautiful interior benefits from a new teak & holy cabin sole," suggesting a classic, warm aesthetic often found in yachts of its vintage. The layout is generally considered functional, suitable for a couple for extended cruising. Owners can expect a typical arrangement for a boat of this size from the era, likely featuring a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and a head compartment, all designed to provide a practical and livable space on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Northwest 38, particularly those active in online forums, often discuss general maintenance and upkeep common to fiberglass sailboats of the 1970s and 80s. While specific recurring design flaws are not widely documented, typical considerations for prospective buyers include examining the condition of older engine components and the integrity of plumbing systems, as highlighted by discussions around engine cleanliness or the state of sanitation systems. The presence of dedicated forums for similar vintage sailboats, such as the Pacific Northwest Cruisers section, indicates a community of owners who appreciate these classic designs and actively share advice on their care and preservation.