XC 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Xc 38 debuted in 2010 as part of X-Yachts' strategic expansion into the dedicated cruising segment. The XCruising range, including the Xc 38, emerged from a clear design philosophy: to create yachts capable of fast, safe, and comfortable cruising. This commitment aligned with X-Yachts' overarching ethos of building robust, precise, and high-performing yachts with structural integrity, ensuring a responsive sailing experience. The Xc range distinguishes itself from the more performance-oriented Xperformance models through its deeper hull sections, which provide greater interior volume for tanks and enhanced stability for offshore capability. While production details are not explicitly stated for an end year, the Xc 38 is no longer in current production, with the company focusing on newer models. Owner feedback played a significant role in the development and evolution of the Xc 38, influencing design updates such as the Mk II version, which featured larger hull windows and a reworked interior.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Xc 38 is engineered to deliver a superb blend of performance and easy handling, making it an ideal choice for double-handed sailing. Its design characteristics contribute to its capabilities in various conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.31, the Xc 38 demonstrates good potential for performance in lighter winds, suggesting it can move well without requiring excessive breeze. Its impressive ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.43 indicates a very stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an upright, comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio of approximately 485.45, the Xc 38 firmly establishes itself as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, designed for solid tracking and comfort rather than lightweight racing.

Despite its bluewater cruising credentials, the Xc 38 retains the responsiveness and exhilaration under sail that is characteristic of X-Yachts. Reviewers have noted its "beefy hull and aggressive rig," contributing to its perception as a "fun, yet serious cruising yacht." It has been tested in demanding conditions, including 6 to 7 Beaufort on the North Sea, proving its seaworthiness. Owners generally praise its balanced helm and easy handling, even when sailing solo. The flexible yet powerful sail plan, combined with excellent stability, contributes to its smooth performance and easy manageability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Xc 38 is designed to be functional, modern, and stylish, reflecting a commitment to comfort for long-distance cruising. While the provided specifications do not detail maximum headroom, the deeper hull sections of the Xc range contribute to a greater interior volume, allowing for a more spacious feel. The yacht typically features a two-cabin layout, which owners have found particularly impressive for its large berths, a spacious U-shaped saloon, ample locker space, and a well-appointed galley.

Common interior features include beautiful dark teak and teak floorboards with Koto laminate strips, indicative of the quality finishes expected from X-Yachts. The saloon usually offers a comfortable U-shaped seating unit. Stowage is plentiful, with three cockpit lockers providing ample space for inflatables, sails, lines, fenders, and other cruising equipment. Ventilation is also considered, with the overall design aiming for a pleasant living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Xc 38 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, describing it as a robust and reliable vessel suitable for challenging cruising. Many highlight its "great value" as a fast cruiser and appreciate its ability to perform well while maintaining comfort. The ease of handling, even for a double-handed crew, is a frequently mentioned strength. Owners often note the generous stowage and well-conceived interior layout as key advantages for extended voyages.

Some owners have embarked on circumnavigations with their Xc 38s, a testament to the boat's bluewater capabilities and the confidence it inspires. The boat's "clean and timeless style" is also a point of satisfaction. While specific common problems are not widely reported, the robust build quality and the builder's reputation for structural integrity suggest fewer systemic issues. The strong sense of community among X-Yachts owners further enhances the ownership experience.