Seafarer 38 C Information, Review, Specs

The Seafarer 38 C began production in 1972, emerging from a prolific period for Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts. While the production end year is not specified, Seafarer ceased operations in the mid-1980s, suggesting the 38 C's run continued through much of that decade. The design is credited to Philip L. Rhodes, one of the most distinguished American boat designers of the 20th century, whose career spanned over 50 years and encompassed a wide variety of vessels. Rhodes's design philosophy often emphasized a blend of beauty, functionality, and seaworthiness, evident in the Seafarer 38 C's traditional long keel and substantial build.

Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts transitioned from an importer to a direct boat builder in 1965, establishing a plant in Huntington, New York. The company gained a reputation for producing well-regarded fiberglass sailboats, often collaborating with elite naval architects like Rhodes. A distinctive aspect of Seafarer's business model was the availability of many of their models, including the 38 C, in kit form, appealing to owners who wished to complete their yachts themselves. This allowed for variations in final interior finish and layout depending on owner preferences. The Seafarer 38 C was offered with multiple rig options, including sloop, cutter, or ketch configurations, and could be specified with a short or tall rig. A bowsprit was also an optional feature.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seafarer 38 C is characterized by its heavy displacement and full keel, indicators of its design as a capable cruiser rather than a light-air racer. With a Displacement-Length Ratio (DLR) calculated at approximately 363, she falls firmly into the category of a heavy, more traditional cruising vessel. This high DLR suggests a boat that will carry her way well through chop and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability and comfort over outright speed.

Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, at around 12.06, indicates that the Seafarer 38 C is relatively undercanvassed. This suggests she may require more wind to perform optimally and might not be the fastest in light air conditions. However, this characteristic often translates to a more forgiving boat in heavy weather, where her sail plan is less likely to overpower the hull. The ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 33.3% contributes to her stability, though it's not exceptionally high. Combined with her long keel, this provides a stable platform with good directional stability, making her less prone to hobby-horsing and providing a reassuring motion underway. Owners have noted that she sails much better than might be expected given her robust build. The Seafarer 38 C boasts a theoretical hull speed of 7.0 knots, a respectable pace for a boat of her length and type.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom details are not provided in the structured data, the Seafarer 38 C, with an overall length of nearly 38 feet, generally offers comfortable accommodations typical of cruisers of her era. Reviews and owner discussions indicate a traditional interior layout designed for liveaboard comfort and extended cruising.

Common interior arrangements found on the Seafarer 38 C often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a head compartment. The galley is typically well-appointed for cruising, offering space for a stove, sink, and refrigeration. Storage is generally ample, with lockers and drawers throughout the cabin. The interior finish quality can vary, especially given that many were sold in kit form, allowing owners to complete the interior to their own standards. However, those finished by the factory or completed by skilled amateurs often feature warm wood trim and durable fiberglass surfaces. Good ventilation is typically achieved through opening ports and overhead hatches, crucial for comfort during warmer climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seafarer 38 C consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness. Many highlight the boat's comfortable motion in a seaway, attributing it to the heavy displacement and full keel design, which instills confidence during offshore passages. The robust hull and deck are frequently mentioned as strong points, providing a sense of security and durability. Owners who have extensively cruised or lived aboard appreciate the boat's livability and generous freshwater capacity, which can be up to 150 gallons. The versatility of rig options (sloop, cutter, ketch) is also seen as a positive, allowing owners to customize the boat for their specific sailing preferences.

However, as with many older vessels, common maintenance issues can arise. Owners have reported instances of original deck fittings developing leaks, which often require re-bedding to prevent water intrusion. Engine issues, particularly with the original Perkins 108 diesel, are sometimes noted, as would be expected for machinery of that vintage, occasionally requiring attention to cooling systems or general upkeep. Despite these potential challenges, the collective sentiment among owners is largely positive, emphasizing the enduring appeal of a classic design built for the rigors of cruising.