Sailing Performance & Handling
The influence of Ed Dubois is immediately evident in the Centurion 38’s sailing characteristics. With a Displacement/Length ratio (D/L) that sits in the moderate category and a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio typically near 19, the boat is surprisingly lively in light air for an offshore cruiser. On the water, the 38 is noted for its stiffness and "big boat" feel; it tracks exceptionally well upwind, a hallmark of Dubois designs. The yacht was offered with multiple keel configurations, including a deep fin for maximum performance and a winged keel for those sailing in shallower regions like the Chesapeake or the Bahamas.
Owner anecdotes often highlight the boat's balanced helm. Even as the breeze freshens, the Centurion 38 remains controllable, though it rewards early reefing to keep the boat on its lines. The high ballast ratio ensures a high righting moment, making it a "sea-kindly" vessel that doesn't pound excessively in a head sea. Editorial tests from the period noted that the boat’s performance was competitive enough to be a serious contender under the IOR and later IMS handicap systems, without sacrificing the heavy-weather security expected of a Wauquiez.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Inside, the Centurion 38 showcases the legendary Wauquiez joinery, primarily utilizing Burmese teak. The layout is a classic offshore configuration: a large, forward-facing navigation station to starboard and a functional "L-shaped" galley to port, which is well-braced for cooking at sea. The standard layout features two private cabins—a V-berth forward and a large double cabin aft—along with a single head. The salon is characterized by its warmth and traditional feel, offering 6'2" of headroom and high-quality upholstery that has often stood the test of time better than its mass-produced contemporaries.
In terms of siblings, the Centurion 38 was part of a broader family of Dubois-designed Centurions that included the slightly smaller Centurion 36 and the larger Centurion 40 and 42 models. While the hulls varied in length, they shared nearly identical design DNA, including the low-profile coachroof and distinctive "wedge" deck appearance. There was also a "Centurion 38 S" variant in some markets, which featured a taller rig and deeper keel for dedicated racing performance.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach a Centurion 38 with a technical eye for the following areas:
- Teak Deck Condition: Like many European yachts of this era, the teak decks were often screwed and glued. After 30+ years, these decks frequently reach the end of their service life. Re-caulking or full replacement is a significant expense, and moisture intrusion into the balsa core near screw holes is a common "gotcha."
- Keel Bolt Integrity: The Centurion 38 uses a high-tensile steel bolt system. Buyers should inspect the bilge for any signs of "weeping" or rust around the bolt heads, which could indicate a need for dropping the keel and replacing the seals.
- Grid Bonding: Wauquiez utilized a robust internal grid system (matrix) to provide hull stiffness. While generally very strong, a hard grounding can cause the grid to delaminate from the hull. This is a critical area for a surveyor to inspect with a percussion hammer.
- Rudder Bearings: The rudder is a high-aspect spade design. Wear in the bushings or bearings can lead to "play" in the helm, which is felt as a vibration or knock during sailing.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Centurion 38 are supported by a dedicated community. The most prominent is Wauquiez Forever, an association founded by the family of Henri Wauquiez, which serves as a technical repository and social hub for owners globally. Additionally, the Wauquiez Owners Information site provides a technical wiki and historical documentation that is invaluable for refitting these yachts.
The Verdict
The Wauquiez Centurion 38 remains a premier choice for the sailor who refuses to choose between speed and luxury. It is a "sailor's boat" that provides the security needed for transatlantic crossings while maintaining the grace of a thoroughbred.
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and interior woodwork that surpasses modern mass-production standards.
- Strong upwind performance and predictable handling in heavy weather.
- Timeless, elegant lines by Ed Dubois that have aged remarkably well.
Cons:
- High maintenance requirements for the original teak decks.
- Older engines (often original Volvo Pentas) may be nearing the end of their reliable lifespan.
- Higher price point on the used market compared to other 38-footers of the same vintage.
