Yankee 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Yankee 38 emerged from a period when the International Offshore Rule (IOR) heavily influenced sailboat design, leading to vessels that balanced racing prowess with liveability. Produced from 1972 to 1975, the Yankee 38 (S&S #2094-C2) was a development of the successful 1971 IOR One Ton Cup racing boat 'Lightnin''. This heritage suggests Sparkman & Stephens' design philosophy for the Yankee 38 aimed to translate competitive racing lines into a more accommodating platform for cruising sailors, without sacrificing performance.

Yankee Yachts, under the leadership of John Schumaker, was celebrated for its unwavering commitment to high construction standards. The company's ethos during this era centered on producing meticulously built sailboats, often employing one-piece, hand laid-up fiberglass hulls for exceptional durability and structural integrity. This dedication to quality is a defining feature of the Yankee 38. Following Yankee Yachts' closure in 1975, the molds for the Yankee 38 were acquired by Catalina Yachts, leading to the creation of the Catalina 38 with some modifications, a testament to the enduring quality of the Sparkman & Stephens design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Yankee 38, with a length overall of just over 38 feet and a waterline length of 28.75 feet, possesses a hull form that blends performance characteristics with seaworthy comfort. Her fin keel provides splendid maneuverability, although it may offer slightly less directional stability compared to a full keel.

Interpreting her key performance ratios reveals much about her on-water behavior:

• Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) of approximately 16.06: This moderate ratio suggests the Yankee 38 is a capable cruiser, offering good performance in a range of conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy winds. She is designed to be responsive yet forgiving.
• Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) of 0.4579: This exceptionally high ratio indicates a very stiff and stable boat. The Yankee 38 is well-regarded for her ability to stand up to a significant amount of sail area even in strong breezes, providing a comfortable and secure motion in a seaway. Owners often praise her as a "stiff boat that could really carry sail."
• Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) of approximately 299.9: This relatively high number places the Yankee 38 in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. While not a lightweight racer, her robust displacement contributes to her solid feel and ability to handle challenging conditions with confidence.

Overall, the Yankee 38 is noted for being "very heavily built and well constructed," and a "stiff boat that could really carry sail," though perhaps "not as nimble around the buoys as more" dedicated racers. Her Sparkman & Stephens pedigree ensures a balanced helm and predictable handling, making her a pleasure to sail on various points of sail.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the Yankee 38 are somewhat limited in standard data, owner accounts and historical reviews indicate a layout designed for comfortable cruising with an emphasis on practicality. The design provides sleeping accommodations for up to eight people, suggesting a traditional arrangement well-suited for families or extended voyages. The interior layout is often described as "offshore racing oriented" in its original design, with a focus on functional spaces. Typical configurations would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station. The general finish quality, consistent with Yankee Yachts' reputation, would have featured robust materials and solid joinery, though specific wood types and finishes would vary. Owners appreciate the solid construction throughout the interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Yankee 38 consistently laud the vessel for its robust construction and exceptional seaworthiness. Many highlight its "heavily built and well constructed" nature, noting its ability to handle rough seas with a "stiff" and comfortable motion. The Sparkman & Stephens design is frequently praised for its solid sailing performance and stability, particularly when carrying sail in stronger winds. Owners often speak of their Yankee 38 with affection, valuing its timeless appeal and the quality that has allowed these boats to endure for decades.

While specific common problems are not widely documented, as with many boats of its vintage, potential buyers typically examine the condition of original components, such as the Vire 491 30hp engine, though many have been upgraded over the years to more modern alternatives like a Yanmar 3GM30. Overall, the consensus among owners is that the Yankee 38 represents a well-built, capable, and enduring classic that offers significant value for its offshore cruising and racing heritage.