Oceanic 38 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Pan Oceanic 38 traces back to the early 1980s. Pan Oceanic Marine, under the direction of Robert Pancoe, relocated its manufacturing operations to the Philippines in 1980, and it was in this new facility that the Pan Oceanic 38 was developed. Production for this model commenced in 1982, with Pan Oceanic Marine remaining an active builder until approximately 1985. Ted Brewer, the celebrated naval architect behind all of Pan Oceanic's "Oceanic line" vessels, instilled in the 38 his signature emphasis on robust construction and inherent seaworthiness. Brewer's designs prioritize stability and a comfortable motion even in challenging sea states, with the Pan Oceanic 38 specifically described as a "moderate weight sailboat" that is "stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized". The hull was constructed from solid fiberglass, a hallmark of the builder's commitment to durability for long-distance cruising.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Oceanic 38's design metrics provide insight into its performance characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.9, she possesses a moderate sail plan. This suggests she will perform capably in a good breeze, offering a powerful motion once underway, though perhaps requiring a bit more wind to achieve optimal speeds in lighter conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.37 indicates a good degree of initial stiffness, contributing to her described stability and righting capability. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at roughly 269.7, firmly places her in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, aligning with the builder's reputation for constructing solid offshore vessels.

Below the waterline, the Oceanic 38 features a fin keel coupled with a skeg-hung rudder. This combination typically offers a good balance between directional stability, important for comfortable offshore passages, and maneuverability, allowing for more responsive handling than a full-keel design. While specific anecdotal handling descriptions are limited, the overall design philosophy by Ted Brewer points to a boat engineered for predictable and comfortable performance in varying sea conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed diagrams are scarce, grounded owner reports suggest the Pan Oceanic 38 features a well-executed interior layout. The vessel is designed to maximize liveability and functionality for cruising. Descriptions indicate a practical arrangement, often including an aft cabin and a dedicated, functional chart table. With a generous fresh water capacity of 90 gallons (or 119 US gallons), the boat is equipped for extended periods away from shore. The interior finish, typical of vessels from this era built for serious cruising, likely features a blend of durable fiberglass and practical wood trim, focusing on utility and comfort for extended voyages rather than purely aesthetic flourishes.

Owner's Perspectives

The Pan Oceanic 38 enjoys a dedicated following among its owners, evidenced by the existence of groups like the Pan Oceanic Owners Group (POG) and an active sailboat forum. Owners consistently praise the model's robust construction and its inherent suitability as a capable ocean-going vessel, affirming its "go anywhere" reputation. The 38 is widely regarded as a solid, dependable platform for offshore passages. While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted potential issues such as engine alignment challenges, which could lead to vibration issues on older models. This feedback underscores the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance for these enduring classics, ensuring their continued seaworthiness for future adventures.