Sailing Performance & Handling
The Finnsailer 38 is characterized by its heavy displacement and a relatively conservative sail plan, typical of the 1970s motorsailer philosophy. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "heavy cruiser" end of the spectrum, the hull is designed to punch through a North Sea chop rather than dance over it. Angus Primrose gave the 38 a semi-long keel with a protected rudder, ensuring exceptional directional stability. This makes the boat a "straight-line" sailor that tracks remarkably well, requiring minimal effort from the helmsman or autopilot once the sails are balanced.
Under sail, the boat feels stiff and secure. It typically carries a ketch rig, though sloop configurations exist; the ketch rig allows for a wide variety of sail combinations, making it easy to reduce sail area as the wind rises. According to period design notes from the Angus Primrose archives, the 38 was intended to maintain a comfortable motion in heavy seas, minimizing the violent pitching associated with lighter, flatter-bottomed designs. While it will not win races in light airs—where the significant wetted surface area of the long keel creates drag—it finds its stride in 15 to 25 knots of wind. When the wind dies, the large Perkins diesel engines (often the 4.236 or 6-cylinder variants) provide the "motor" in motorsailer, allowing the boat to maintain hull speed regardless of head-seas.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Finnsailer 38 is where the Fiskars heritage of high-quality craftsmanship is most evident. As the flagship, the 38 offered a level of volume and joinery that rivaled the more famous Nauticat line. The layout is centered around a bright, airy pilothouse (or deck saloon) that provides 360-degree visibility, a feature that defined the model’s appeal to high-latitude sailors. This space typically houses the internal helm station, a large settee, and a chart table, allowing the crew to navigate in a climate-controlled environment.
Below deck, the Finnsailer 38 usually features a split-level arrangement. The most common configuration includes a large V-berth forward and a spacious aft cabin accessible via a passageway, often located under the cockpit or through the main saloon. The use of heavy teak and mahogany veneers, combined with the generous 6'4" headroom in the main saloon, gives the interior a traditional, "salty" feel. Variations in the model often focused on the galley location; some hulls feature a "galley-down" arrangement to maximize saloon seating, while others prioritize a more social "galley-up" layout near the pilothouse. The insulation provided by the thick GRP hull and the often-included Eberspächer heating systems make these boats exceptionally comfortable for winter liveaboards or extended late-season cruising.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Finnsailer 38 should approach the vessel with an understanding of its 1970s construction techniques and the specific demands placed on motorsailers.
- Osmotic Blistering: Like many GRP boats of the mid-70s, the Finnsailer 38 can be prone to osmosis. While the hulls were built with substantial thickness, a moisture meter test and a visual inspection of the gelcoat are mandatory during a survey.
- Window Seals and Pilothouse Integrity: The large glass panes in the pilothouse are a signature feature but also a common point of failure. Over decades, the seals can perish, leading to leaks that damage the interior woodwork. Check for "blackening" of the teak around the window frames.
- Engine Service History: Because these boats are often used as motor vessels as much as sailboats, the engine hours can be high. The Perkins 4.236 is a legendary "bulletproof" engine, but it requires diligent cooling system maintenance. Inspect the heat exchanger and the condition of the engine mounts.
- Steering System Play: The dual-station steering (internal and external) involves a complex arrangement of cables or hydraulics. Any "play" or stiffness in the wheel should be investigated, as replacing the linkages in the cramped spaces under the cockpit can be labor-intensive.
- Deck Core: While the hull is solid laminate, some sections of the deck may use a sandwich construction. Check for soft spots or "crunching" sounds underfoot, which indicate delamination or water ingress into the core.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Finnsailer 38 often find common ground with the broader community of Finnish boat owners. While a dedicated "Finnsailer-only" association is smaller than those for brands like Swan or Hallberg-Rassy, the Finnish Maritime Museum archives and the Classic Yacht Association of Finland provide historical context for Fiskars-built vessels. Technical support is frequently found through the Nauticat Association, as the design philosophy and regional construction techniques of the two brands are very similar.
The Verdict
The Finnsailer 38 is a robust, "go-anywhere" cruiser that excels in comfort and safety rather than raw speed. It is an ideal choice for a couple or a small family looking to extend their sailing season into the colder months or for those planning a circumnavigation that includes high-latitude regions.
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality with a focus on durability and heavy-weather safety.
- The pilothouse offers a protected, dry environment for navigation in poor weather.
- High interior volume with a classic, well-finished Finnish aesthetic.
- Strong engine performance and high fuel capacity for long-distance motoring.
Cons:
- Heavy displacement leads to sluggish performance in light winds.
- The 1970s GRP construction requires careful inspection for osmosis.
- Maintenance of the dual helm stations and large windows can be costly.
- Limited maneuverability in tight marinas due to the long keel and high windage of the pilothouse.
