Endeavour 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

With a design heavily influenced by Johan Valentijn’s performance background, the Endeavour 38 offers a more spirited sailing experience than the company’s earlier "shoal draft and short rig" offerings. The boat features a high-aspect masthead sloop rig, though some were configured with a staysail as cutters for offshore work. According to technical data preserved by the Endeavour Owners Groups, the vessel carries a Displacement/Length ratio of approximately 240, placing it firmly in the "moderate displacement" category. This provides a balance of sea-kindliness in a chop while remaining light enough to move efficiently in light air.

On the water, the E38 is known for its predictable tracking and balanced helm. The use of a shoal-draft fin keel (drawing 4' 11") allows for access to thin-water cruising grounds like the Bahamas without the significant leeway penalties often associated with the full-keel designs of that era. However, owners frequently note that while she is faster than the Endeavour 40, she is still a cruising yacht at heart; she prefers a reach to a tight beat. The steering is typically handled via a pedestal-mounted Edson system, which provides enough feedback to feel the boat’s groove without being taxing during long coastal hops.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The center-cockpit configuration of the Endeavour 38 was engineered to maximize privacy and "liveability" for two couples or a small family. By raising the cockpit, Valentijn created a spacious walk-through corridor leading to a private master stateroom aft. This cabin features a large double berth and, in many layouts, private access to the aft head. The main salon is characterized by a traditional arrangement with a U-shaped galley to starboard, which is noted for its deep sinks and ample counter space—features essential for meal preparation at sea.

Construction during this era moved toward more advanced materials. The E38 utilized Klegecell closed-cell foam coring in the decks to reduce weight aloft and prevent the rot issues associated with traditional plywood cores. The interior joinery typically features a blend of teak veneers and solid teak trim, providing a warm, classic aesthetic. While the E38 did not have a wide array of hull siblings, it shared its design DNA and construction methodology with the larger Endeavour 42, which utilized a similar Valentijn-designed hull form and the "force grid" internal structural system for added rigidity.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Endeavour 38 with a checklist focused on the specific construction methods of the mid-1980s. While the hull is a robust solid fiberglass laminate, the deck and structural grid require scrutiny.

• Deck Delamination: Although Klegecell foam does not rot like wood, it can delaminate from the fiberglass skins if subjected to heavy impact or if deck hardware was not properly re-bedded. Use a phenolic hammer to tap for "dead" spots around the windlass and stanchion bases.
• Chainplate Inspection: The E38 features inboard chainplates to allow for tighter sheeting angles. These pass through the deck and are bolted to the internal "force grid." Any signs of water intrusion at the deck level can lead to "crevice corrosion" on the stainless steel plates or degradation of the grid bond.
• Portlights: The original Graymarine portlights are a common point of failure. The plastic frames often crack due to UV exposure, leading to persistent leaks that can damage the teak cabinetry below. Many owners opt for upgraded stainless steel replacements.
• The "Smile": As with many fin-keel boats of this displacement, look for a "smile" or hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint, which may indicate the need to torque the keel bolts or reinforce the bedding compound.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Endeavour Owners Association, a highly active group that maintains an exhaustive archive of original manuals, wiring diagrams, and designer notes. This resource is invaluable for owners seeking to maintain the original Perkins 4-108 or Yanmar diesel engines commonly found in the E38, as well as those looking for specifications on the rig and tankage.

The Verdict

The Endeavour 38 remains a high-value entry point for sailors seeking a capable, center-cockpit cruiser that doesn't sacrifice sailing performance for interior volume. While she requires the typical maintenance of a 1980s fiberglass yacht, her pedigree and structural upgrades make her a more sophisticated choice than many of her contemporaries.

Pros:

• Johan Valentijn Design: Improved performance and better pointing ability than earlier Endeavours.
• Center Cockpit Privacy: Excellent separation between the master aft cabin and the forward guest V-berth.
• Shoal Draft: Ideal for the East Coast, Florida, and the Bahamas.
• Structural Integrity: Features a multi-axial steel-reinforced "force grid" for hull stiffness.

Cons:

• Aging Portlights: Original plastic units are prone to leaking and UV damage.
• Engine Access: While the walk-through provides access, some maintenance tasks on the engine's "blind side" can be cramped.
• Complex Deck Hardware: Numerous penetrations in the cored deck require vigilant re-bedding to prevent delamination.