Sailing Performance & Handling
The Bora 838 BS is characterized by its "BS" (Ballast-Schwert) configuration, which utilizes a hybrid ballast system. According to technical specifications from the manufacturer, the boat features approximately 750 kg of lead ballast integrated into a shallow fixed longitudinal keel, paired with a 100 kg to 120 kg lifting fiberglass centerboard. This setup provides a low center of gravity for stability in coastal chops while maintaining a minimum draft of just 0.65 meters, making it ideal for the shallow waters and beaching common in lake sailing.
Under sail, the boat’s fractional sloop rig and roughly 33 square meters of sail area provide responsive handling in light to moderate winds. While its displacement-to-length ratio suggests a moderate-heavy build for its size—Hullsail data notes a displacement of approximately 3,700 kg—the hull’s slender lines and "V" shaped entry allow it to track well upwind. The deck is optimized for short-handed sailing, featuring self-tailing winches and lines led aft to the cockpit. In heavier conditions, the "BS" version is noted for being more forgiving than pure centerboard boats, though the fixed-keel "B" variant remains the preferred choice for those planning extended offshore passages in the Baltic or North Seas.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its trailerable beam, the Bora 838 BS offers a surprisingly voluminous interior with a standing headroom of 1.80 meters (approx. 5'11") in the main saloon. The layout is functional and aimed at extended cruising, featuring a separate, lockable forecabin, a central saloon with a folding table, and a dedicated heads compartment that can be equipped with a shower. The galley is well-appointed for the boat's size, typically including a two-burner gimbaled stove and a sink with pressurized water.
The model is produced in two primary technical variations:
- Bora 838 BS (Ballast-Sword): The most common variant, featuring the lifting centerboard and shallow ballast keel. This version uses a pivoting rudder to further facilitate shallow-water navigation.
- Bora 838 B (Fixed Keel): A more traditional coastal configuration featuring a fixed cast iron keel with a lead bulb and a deeper draft (approx. 1.4m to 1.57m). This version offers enhanced righting moment and a fixed rudder for improved tracking in open ocean conditions.
The interior finish is traditionally aesthetic, often utilizing mahogany, teak, or cherry veneers, which contrasts with the modern vacuum-infusion GRP hull construction.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a used Bora 838 BS should focus their inspection on the specific mechanical systems that define its versatility.
- Centerboard Mechanism: In the BS version, the lifting centerboard is operated via a tackle system led to the cockpit. It is essential to inspect the centerboard trunk for signs of impact damage and the lifting cable for fraying or corrosion.
- Keel-to-Hull Joint: Because the ballast is integrated into a longitudinal "flat keel," the joint where this section meets the hull must be inspected for stress cracks, particularly if the boat has been frequently trailered or grounded.
- Towing Weight: While the beam is within the 2.55m legal limit for European roads, the actual displacement (often exceeding 3,500 kg when loaded with gear and a trailer) requires a heavy-duty towing vehicle. Buyers should verify the actual weight to ensure their vehicle and licensing (such as the European B+E) are sufficient.
- Vacuum Infusion Integrity: Early models or those built with DCPD resins should be checked for osmotic blistering, although the manufacturer transitioned to isophthalic resins and gelcoats to mitigate this risk.
Community & Resources
The primary resource for technical support and original parts is the builder, Bora Yachts, located in Nieporęt, Poland. Because the boat is a derivative of the Kormoran design, some historical technical data can also be found through Polish sailing archives and the Magazyn Żagle (Sails Magazine) archives, which covered the development of the 838 series in the mid-2000s.
The Verdict
The Bora 838 BS is a robust, handsome cruiser that successfully balances the conflicting demands of trailerability and seaworthiness. It is an excellent choice for sailors who want the freedom to explore different regions without the expense of long-distance deliveries.
Pros
- Legal trailerable beam (2.55m) for easy transport across Europe.
- Versatile lifting keel system allows for shallow-water anchoring and lake use.
- Impressive interior headroom (1.80m) for a boat of this class.
- Modern construction using vacuum-infusion technology.
Cons
- Displacement can be heavy for some standard SUVs to tow safely.
- Limited market presence outside of Central and Northern Europe.
- The slender hull, while aesthetic, offers less initial stability than some wider-beam modern competitors.
