Warrior 38 Information, Review, Specs

The Warrior 38 was launched during a period when Trident Marine Ltd., founded in 1968 by John Brown in Portchester, Hampshire, was known for crafting sturdy, blue-water capable vessels. Production for the Warrior 38 spanned from 1985 to 1987, with 49 units built during this time. The design philosophy behind Trident Marine yachts, which the Warrior 38 exemplifies, prioritized stability, comfort, and safety over outright speed, appealing directly to those planning extended cruises or offshore voyages.

Designers Bill Dixon and Angus Primrose are credited with the Warrior 38's lines. While Angus Primrose was renowned for robust cruising designs, Bill Dixon's design ethos centers on creating sailing yachts built for performance and comfort, 9]. This collaboration resulted in a vessel described as a solid, seaworthy, and capable cruiser. The Warrior 38 features a strong fiberglass hull and a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to its renowned stability and tracking characteristics. There is mention of potential variations during the production run, such as a possible shorter (shoal draft) keel and mast, along with modified interiors.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Warrior 38's design metrics reveal a yacht built for stability and comfortable cruising rather than outright racing speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio reported at 18.80, she possesses enough sail area to perform well even in lighter winds, a desirable characteristic for a cruiser of her size. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.44 (calculated from 8250 lbs ballast and 18750 lbs displacement) is relatively high, indicating a stiff and stable boat that can stand up to a good breeze and maintain its course in challenging conditions.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 280.9, places the Warrior 38 in the medium-heavy displacement category. This suggests a vessel with a comfortable motion in a seaway, offering a solid and forgiving ride, which aligns perfectly with its blue-water cruising intentions. Owners have praised the Warrior 38 for its seaworthiness and solid construction, noting that it sails well and has proven capable of circumnavigating the globe. Her fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder configuration further enhances tracking and provides protected steering in open waters.

Accommodations and Layout

The Warrior 38 is known for its surprisingly spacious and efficiently organized interior, providing a comfortable living space for its size. Designed to sleep six people, typically across three cabins, the layout is well-suited for extended periods aboard. The emphasis on efficient organization includes a considerable amount of built-in stowage space, crucial for long-distance cruising. Owners often express enjoyment of the cabin layout, noting the presence of free space. While specific details about the galley and head arrangement require individual boat inspection, the general consensus points to a design that maximizes livability and practicality for offshore voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trident Warrior 38 consistently express a strong affection for their vessels, with many "loving" their boats. The yacht's reputation as a "strong, capable and comfortable cruiser ideal for Med or blue water cruising" is frequently echoed by those who sail them. Testaments to its blue-water prowess include instances of Warrior 38s having sailed around the world, enduring well and remaining in great condition. Many owners describe the boat as "terrific and virtually trouble free".

However, as with any vessel of its vintage, some potential maintenance considerations have been noted. One documented issue, highlighted in a DIY restoration project, involved a rotten deck core, indicating that thorough pre-purchase surveys and ongoing maintenance are prudent. There are also discussions among owners regarding the construction of the rudder, suggesting it's an area of specific interest or potential concern for some. Overall, the sentiment among Warrior 38 owners is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting appreciation for a solidly built, seaworthy, and comfortable cruising yacht.