Rhodes 38 (Seafarer) Information, Review, Specs

The Seafarer Rhodes 38 began its production run in 1971. It was developed by Philip Rhodes, a distinguished naval architect whose career spanned over 50 years and significantly contributed to the fiberglass boat revolution. Rhodes designed the 38 as a cruiser, and notably, it also served as his personal boat. His designs are characterized by underlying principles that contribute to their enduring appeal.

Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts, Inc., the builder, had transitioned to direct boat manufacturing in Huntington, New York, in 1965, moving beyond its initial role as an importer. During the era of the Rhodes 38's production, Seafarer was known for producing well-regarded fiberglass sailboats, often collaborating with elite naval architects. While the company's general design philosophy sometimes leaned towards "racing-inspired hull designs," the Rhodes 38, with its heavier displacement, clearly prioritized stability and comfort for extended cruising. A distinctive aspect of Seafarer's business model was the availability of many models, including the Rhodes 38, in kit form, allowing owners to complete their yachts. The production of the Rhodes 38 ceased around 1985 or 1986, when Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts concluded its operations.

The Rhodes 38 is also widely known as the Seafarer 38. Throughout its production, it was offered with various rig configurations, including sloop, cutter, or ketch, and provided options for both short and tall rigs. An optional bowsprit was also available.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seafarer Rhodes 38 is characterized as a heavy sailboat, designed more for stable cruising than for light-air performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) calculates to approximately 12.07. This relatively low figure indicates that the boat is underpowered, suggesting it may struggle in very light wind conditions.

With a ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of approximately 0.33, the Rhodes 38 is considered reasonably stable and stiff, possessing excellent righting capability in the event of a capsize. Its displacement to length (Disp/LWL) ratio, at roughly 364.65, firmly places it in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, emphasizing its robust build and comfortable motion.

Owners frequently describe the Rhodes 38 as a boat that "sails much better than expected" despite its heavy displacement. Its long keel design, as indicated by its specifications, contributes to excellent directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, reinforcing its suitability as a blue-water cruising boat.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Seafarer Rhodes 38 is often described by owners as a "floating hotel" that can be set up to be very livable. This suggests a generous interior volume for a boat of its size, designed to maximize comfort for extended periods aboard. The emphasis on livability points to well-thought-out accommodations typical for a cruising vessel of its era. The boat features substantial tankage, with water capacities ranging from 100 to 150 gallons and fuel capacities from 30 to 60 gallons, supporting extended voyages.

Owners' discussions highlight the boat's potential for customization and a generally spacious interior that allows for comfortable living, even for those who choose to live aboard for extended periods, such as cruising in the Caribbean. While specific details on the typical arrangement of a V-berth, head, salon, galley, or quarter berths would require more detailed owner reviews or floor plans, the general consensus points to an accommodating and practical layout for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seafarer Rhodes 38 consistently express high regard for the vessel, often referring to it as a "real gem." Its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently praised, aligning with its reputation as a capable blue-water cruiser. The boat's suitability for extended voyages and liveaboard cruising is underscored by accounts of owners living on board for many years, including extensive time in the Caribbean. Despite its heavy nature, many find that the Rhodes 38 performs admirably under sail. While specific recurring issues or common problems are not widely highlighted in general discussions, its age naturally implies that typical maintenance concerns for fiberglass boats of the 1970s era would apply.