Tartan 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Tartan 38 lies in the collaborative spirit that defined Tartan Yachts from its inception. Founded by Charles "Charlie" Britton, Tartan established a reputation for embracing fiberglass construction and innovative design, beginning with the Tartan 27. The Tartan 38 emerged during a period when the company was well-established, having consolidated its manufacturing operations under Britton's leadership after a factory fire in 1971.

Designed by the legendary firm Sparkman & Stephens, the Tartan 38 embodies their philosophy of creating yachts that excel in both performance and seaworthiness. Sparkman & Stephens' designs are often characterized by their elegant lines, balanced hulls, and ability to handle various conditions with grace. Notably, the Tartan 38 shared its hull with the Tartan 37, which became one of the builder's best-selling models. However, the 38 was conceived as the "racing version" with its deeper 6.75-foot fin keel and a taller mast, optimizing it for improved upwind performance and speed. This strategic design choice reflected Tartan's broader commitment to "heirloom quality" yachts that deliver superior all-around performance for discerning sailors.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 37.29 feet and a waterline length of 28.5 feet, the Tartan 38 presents a balanced profile. Its design ratios provide insight into its sailing characteristics:

• Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) Ratio: At approximately 17.26, the Tartan 38 has a respectable sail area for its displacement. This suggests solid performance in a range of wind conditions, likely offering good acceleration in lighter breezes while remaining manageable as the wind builds.
• Ballast to Displacement (B/D) Ratio: A high ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.49 indicates significant stability and stiffness. With 7,500 pounds of lead ballast in a total displacement of 15,200 pounds, the Tartan 38 is designed to stand up to a strong breeze, providing a secure and comfortable motion in a seaway. This contributes to its reputation as a capable offshore cruiser.
• Displacement to Length (D/L) Ratio: With a D/L ratio of around 293, the Tartan 38 falls into the moderate-heavy displacement category. This suggests a yacht that prioritizes comfort and seaworthiness over light-air speed, offering a solid and forgiving ride rather than a twitchy, ultra-light performance feel. The robust hull and deck construction, often utilizing solid fiberglass, further contribute to this sense of security and durability.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Tartan 38, much like its close sibling the Tartan 37, is well-regarded for its balanced helm and predictable handling. Its deeper keel and taller rig compared to the 37 generally translate to improved pointing ability and overall speed, making it a satisfying boat for those who appreciate spirited sailing performance.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not consistently listed, the Tartan 38's beam of 11.75 feet suggests a spacious interior for a boat of its era. Typical layouts for Tartan yachts from this period often feature a traditional arrangement designed for comfortable cruising. Reviews of similar Tartan models, like the Tartan 3800, describe interiors that are comfortable for working or relaxing, with layouts that function well for multiple people.

Common configurations for a vessel of this size and vintage would typically include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, and a galley. Many Tartan models emphasize good finish quality with wood trim and well-appointed, functional spaces. Owners often highlight the overall conservative construction and timeless profile of these yachts. Adequate storage and ventilation are usually considered in these designs to support extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Tartan yachts, including the Tartan 38, often praise their solid construction, quality craftsmanship, and excellent sailing characteristics. Tartan has a reputation for building "heirloom quality" yachts, and this sentiment is often echoed in owner communities. The deep lead keel and robust fiberglass hull construction are frequently cited as strong points, contributing to a sense of safety and durability. Owners appreciate the blend of performance and comfort, finding these boats capable of both spirited daysailing and comfortable long-distance cruising.

However, as with any vessel of this age, owners occasionally report common maintenance considerations. Some older Tartans might experience issues with original deck fittings requiring re-bedding, or the aging of the outer layer of the hull. Specific mentions from owner forums indicate potential issues such as an aluminum steel plate being susceptible to galvanic corrosion, or challenges with older engine hoses and water tank fittings on well-used models. Despite these typical aging concerns, the strong owner community, exemplified by groups like the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE), underscores the enduring appeal and loyalty commanded by the Tartan brand, with owners often willing to address issues to maintain these well-regarded vessels.