Bavaria 38 E (1987) Information, Review, Specs

While official digital archives from the manufacturer are sparse for this vintage, the Bavaria Owners Association maintains records suggesting the 38 E was built on the same successful hull platform as the Bavaria 37 of the mid-80s, but with an extended transom and refined interior appointments.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Bavaria 38 E is characterized by its moderate displacement and a relatively high ballast ratio, which provides a level of stiffness and "big boat" feel that is often missing in modern lightweight cruisers. Equipped with a masthead sloop rig, the boat performs optimally in medium to heavy airs. Its hull shape, featuring a fine entry and a traditional fin keel, allows for respectable tracking and a comfortable motion in a seaway, avoiding the "slamming" often associated with flatter-bottomed contemporary designs.

Owners often note that while the boat is not a light-air flyer, it handles offshore conditions with confidence. The steering is typically geared through a pedestal-mounted wheel, providing enough feedback to remain engaging without becoming fatiguing. Because the 38 E was built before the widespread adoption of huge fractional rigs with large mainsails, it relies heavily on its headsail for power; consequently, a high-quality furling genoa is essential for maintaining performance across varying wind ranges.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 38 E is a testament to the "Old World" Bavaria style, featuring extensive use of African mahogany and high-gloss finishes that create a warm, traditional atmosphere. The layout usually follows a classic three-cabin arrangement, though a two-cabin "Owner’s" version was produced, which significantly expanded the size of the aft cabin and the head compartment.

The main salon is notable for its generous headroom, which remains competitive even by modern standards. The U-shaped galley is positioned to port, offering security for the cook while underway, while a dedicated navigation station sits to starboard. One of the defining differences between the 38 E and its siblings, like the 38 Lagoon (a center-cockpit variant), is the depth and volume of the cockpit lockers, which are cavernous in this aft-cockpit configuration. Variations in the model run also included different keel drafts, with a deep fin keel being the standard for European waters and a shallower wing keel occasionally found on models exported to the North American market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Bavaria 38 E with a checklist focused on the longevity of its 1980s systems and construction methods:

• Saildrive Diaphragm: Most units were fitted with Volvo Penta engines and saildrives. It is critical to verify the age of the rubber saildrive seal; if it is older than seven years, replacement is a high-priority maintenance item.
• Teak Deck Integrity: If the vessel is equipped with the original laid teak decks, they are likely reaching the end of their service life. Check for thinning wood, failing caulking, and potential water ingress into the deck's foam core.
• Grid and Bolt Inspection: While Bavaria hulls of this era are exceptionally thick, the internal fiberglass grid (the "matrix") should be inspected for any signs of separation from the hull, particularly around the keel stump, which could indicate a hard grounding.
• Osmosis: As with many yachts from the late 1980s, the hull should be surveyed for osmotic blistering. While rarely structural on these thick laminates, it can be a significant negotiation point during a sale.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical data for this model is the Bavaria Owners Association, which provides a repository of manuals and a community-driven forum for sourcing legacy parts. Additionally, the German-based Bavaria Yacht Club serves as a significant resource for owners seeking original design specifications and rig tuning guides for Axel Mohnhaupt’s early designs.

The Verdict

The Bavaria 38 E (1987) is a "value-buy" for sailors seeking a sturdy, offshore-capable cruiser with more character and better wood craftsmanship than modern entry-level yachts.

Pros:

• Superior build quality and interior joinery compared to later "Cruiser" series models.
• Predictable, stiff sailing characteristics in heavy weather.
• Excellent headroom and ergonomic interior layout for long-term cruising.

Cons:

• Older 1980s systems (plumbing/wiring) likely require significant updates.
• Performance in light winds (under 8 knots) can be sluggish.
• High maintenance costs if the original teak decks require replacement.