Puma 38-S Information, Review, Specs

The Puma 38-S began production in 1976, a period when Puma Yachts, operating under the Nao-Glass division of INERGA, was well-established in the Spanish marine industry. Nao-Glass, with its parent company's expertise in plastics, leveraged fiberglass technology to produce durable and low-maintenance vessels. The builder, located in Llisà del Vall, Barcelona, was known for emphasizing comfort and seaworthiness in its designs, appealing to a broad range of cruising sailors. While other Puma models benefited from collaborations with renowned naval architects like Holman & Pye, the Puma 38-S was specifically designed by Alberto Cabal. Her design reflected the era's shift towards more modern cruising yachts that offered a blend of performance and interior volume.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Puma 38-S is characterized by a masthead sloop rig, a fin keel, and a spade rudder, a configuration intended for good handling and performance. With a reported sail area of 834 square feet and a displacement of 15,432 pounds, her Sail Area to Displacement ratio calculates to approximately 21.39. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Puma 38-S is likely a lively performer in lighter winds, capable of moving well even when the breeze is modest.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, at approximately 42.85%, is indicative of a stiff and stable yacht. This robust ballast ratio means the Puma 38-S possesses a good righting moment, demonstrating a strong ability to resist heeling, which is beneficial for comfort and safety in various sea conditions. The vessel's Displacement to Length ratio, around 267.8, categorizes her as a moderately heavy cruiser. This translates to a boat that offers a comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than a light, skittish ride, aligning with her purpose as a capable cruising yacht. General descriptions highlight her as a "cruising sailing yacht fast and comfortable".

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout and accommodations of the Puma 38-S is not extensively detailed in publicly available records. However, given her length overall of 38.06 feet and a generous beam of 11.81 feet, the Puma 38-S would typically offer substantial interior volume for a vessel of her size and era. Cruising yachts of this type generally feature a traditional layout with a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and a navigation station. A head compartment would also be standard. Finish quality from Puma Yachts typically involved solid fiberglass construction, which was a hallmark of the Nao-Glass division, focusing on durability and practicality. While specific details on wood trim, storage solutions, or ventilation systems are not readily available, it can be inferred that the design prioritized functionality and comfort for extended cruising.