Queen 38 (Buchanan) Information, Review, Specs

The Queen 38's lineage traces back to Alan Buchanan's successful "Vashti" design, a class winner of the prestigious Queen's Cup Race, suggesting an initial design intent for racing capabilities within a classic hull form. Production of the Queen 38 commenced in 1965, with Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. responsible for manufacturing the fiberglass hulls. Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. was a pioneering figure in fiberglass yacht construction, known for its high-quality Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) laminations, often supplying foundational hulls to other yards. This specialized approach meant that many iconic yachts of the mid-20th century were built upon Tyler's reliable fiberglass structures. During this period, Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. played a pivotal role in the marine industry's transition from traditional materials to fiberglass, establishing a reputation for robust and consistent build quality. The Queen 38, therefore, benefits from this expertise, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and deck construction. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are noted for some "Queen Class" vessels, such as the "Vashti Mark 111," detailed variations for the broader Queen 38 production run are not extensively documented.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Queen 38, with its long keel hull type, is characterized by its heavy displacement, which contributes significantly to its stability and comfort in a seaway. Weighing in at 15,212 lbs with a 27.0 ft waterline, its Displacement-to-Length ratio is approximately 345, indicating a substantial, traditional cruiser built for offshore conditions rather than light-air racing. A ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.44 (6,724 lbs of ballast in a 15,212 lb displacement) further underscores its inherent stiffness and stability, suggesting the vessel can stand up well to strong winds and maintain a more upright stance under sail.

With a reported sail area of 713 square feet, the sail area-to-displacement ratio calculates to approximately 18.6. This ratio, combined with its heavy displacement, suggests that while capable, the Queen 38 may be considered somewhat "underpowered" in lighter winds, requiring a decent breeze to truly come alive. However, owners and reviewers consistently describe the boat as a "joy to sail" with classic lines, known for its excellent righting capability and stable motion, making it a reliable choice for extended cruising. Its long keel design provides excellent directional stability, making it track well even in challenging sea states, though it may result in a larger turning radius compared to boats with fin keels and spade rudders.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Buchanan Queen 38 is not extensively detailed in general online resources, suggesting that individual boats may feature variations, especially considering Tyler's model of providing hulls for custom finishing. However, typical arrangements for yachts of this size and era generally include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a table, and a galley. One mention notes "ample storage and locker space around the galley," indicating a practical approach to provisioning for longer voyages. A "2003 refit" of a Vashti MK3 – Queen Class 38 included "interior joinery," suggesting a traditional, perhaps wood-rich, interior finish that could be customized or updated by owners. Access to the interior typically involves steps down from the companionway. The general lack of a specified maximum headroom in the provided data or readily available reviews implies that headroom may vary or is not a primary highlight, but a boat of 39 feet LOA would generally offer comfortable standing room in key areas.