Sweden Yachts 38 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Sweden Yachts 38 unfolded within a prolific era for Sweden Yachts, with production commencing in 1983 and continuing until 1990. During this period, 85 units of the model were built, making it one of the company's notable successes. The design ethos, largely attributed to Peter Norlin, aimed for "elegant lines and non-extreme parameters," seeking to create a yacht that was both aesthetically pleasing and dynamically efficient. This commitment to balanced design aligned perfectly with Sweden Yachts' manufacturing philosophy, which emphasized meticulous craftsmanship and a close working relationship with customers, allowing for a personalized touch even within series production.

The hull and deck of the Sweden Yachts 38 are constructed from solid fiberglass, indicative of the builder's focus on durability and strength. A notable variation offered during its production run was the availability of a wing keel, alongside the standard fin keel, providing options for different sailing preferences and draft requirements. The standard fin keel version features a maximum draft of 7.4 feet, while a wing keel option reduced this to 6.6 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sweden Yachts 38's design principles translate into a commendable sailing performance profile. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 18.50, the yacht demonstrates a good ability to perform well in lighter air conditions, suggesting it is not underpowered Calculated. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio, estimated at around 43%, signifies a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heeling 3, Calculated. This high ballast ratio is a hallmark of a robust offshore cruiser, instilling confidence in challenging conditions Calculated.

Further enhancing its cruising credentials, the Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio of approximately 240.4 places the Sweden Yachts 38 firmly in the moderate displacement cruiser category Calculated. This indicates a design that balances carrying capacity and comfort with respectable speed, making it suitable for both coastal exploration and longer passages. Owners and reviewers often describe the Sweden Yachts 38 as a vessel with "sleek, elegant lines" that offers "spacious living areas" without sacrificing exhilarating sailing capabilities. Its handling is generally well-regarded, with its spade rudder contributing to responsive steering.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications are not comprehensively captured in the provided structured data, grounded search reveals that the Sweden Yachts 38 offers an attractive, open, and comfortable interior. The joinery is typically crafted from mahogany, a material frequently used in high-quality Swedish yachts, lending a classic and warm aesthetic to the living spaces. The designer reportedly aimed for a "slightly more spacy hull design," which translates into a generous interior volume for its length.

Common interior layouts typically feature a comfortable V-berth forward, a well-appointed head, a spacious salon with seating and a dining area, and a functional galley. While specific headroom figures are not available in the initial data, the design intent suggests comfortable standing room in primary areas. The focus on long-distance live-aboard and blue water cruising capability implies ample storage solutions throughout the cabin for provisions and personal gear, and good ventilation would be a priority for extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Sweden Yachts, including the 38, consistently praise the brand's commitment to "superior quality, thoughtful design, and an exceptional ownership experience". The direct-from-yard sales model cultivated strong relationships between the builder and its clientele, fostering a sense of deep connection to the craftsmanship.

While overall satisfaction appears high, some anecdotal owner experiences mention specific maintenance considerations. One forum discussion highlighted a Sweden Yachts 38 that experienced "keel problems" believed to stem from a prior impact, rather than a design flaw. Another account noted a "rudder failure," suggesting that, like any boat of its age, specific components may require attention over time. However, these instances are typically viewed in the context of individual boat history and maintenance rather than systemic issues. Owners frequently commend the solid construction and comfortable motion of Sweden Yachts, making them a coveted choice for discerning sailors worldwide.