Friendship 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The hull of the Friendship 38 is characterized by its relatively low displacement-to-length ratio, falling into the light-to-moderate category which allows for exceptional light-wind performance. According to technical documentation from the Friendship Club, the design employs a high-aspect masthead sloop rig with a sail area of approximately 63.6 square meters. This configuration provides significant power, which is balanced by a deep fin keel (standard at roughly 1.98m to 2.10m) and a 35% ballast-to-displacement ratio.

On the water, the 38 is noted for its "stiffness"—its ability to carry sail late into a freshening breeze before needing to reef. The balanced spade rudder is housed in high-grade Rulon J bearings, a technical detail intended to maintain steering sensitivity and minimize friction even under high loads. This focus on "feel" at the helm is a hallmark of Jac. de Ridder’s designs. While the boat is a capable heavy-weather vessel, its hull shape—a compromise between wave penetration and flat-water speed—allows it to maintain steerage and momentum in force 1 or 2 winds where heavier cruisers might rely on auxiliary power.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Friendship 38 reflects traditional Dutch yacht-building values, prioritizing robust teak joinery and practical sea-going ergonomics. With a headroom of approximately 1.90 meters (6'3"), the salon feels spacious for a yacht of this era. The standard layout typically features a two-cabin configuration, which maximizes the size of the galley and the navigation station. The galley is a "modest" yet functional C-shape, providing security for the cook when the vessel is heeled.

A notable design feature is the engine box, which serves a dual purpose as the companionway staircase. It is designed to be entirely removable, offering 360-degree access to the Volvo Penta or Yanmar diesel engine, a rare luxury for a boat of this size. While most production units were built as cruisers, a small number of "Sport" or "One-Off" variants exist. These rare iterations, sometimes constructed using Twaron (an aramid fiber similar to Kevlar) for increased stiffness and reduced weight, often featured minimalist racing interiors with pipe cots and weight-saving materials in place of the standard teak cabinetry.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Friendship 38 should focus their inspections on the following high-signal areas identified by the owner community and technical surveys:

• Rudder Bearing Wear: The specialized Rulon J bearings provide excellent steering feel but are prone to wear over decades. Check for excessive "play" or vibration at the helm, which may indicate that the bearings or the rudder stock require service.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: Many units were equipped with Volvo Penta saildrives. It is critical to verify the age of the rubber hull seal (diaphragm), as manufacturers recommend replacement every seven years.
• Teak Deck Longevity: High-end models often came with laid teak decks. Inspect for "proud" bungs, thinning planks, or failing caulking, which can lead to moisture ingress into the sub-deck if the boat has been kept in harsh climates.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the boat’s performance pedigree, some hulls may have seen heavy racing use. A thorough inspection of the keel bolts and the surrounding fiberglass for "smile" cracks or signs of grounding is essential.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Friendship Club, an active association based in the Netherlands. They maintain an archive of original brochures, trim manuals, and technical drawings for the 38, which are invaluable for restoration projects or performance tuning.

The Verdict

The Friendship 38 is an sophisticated, performance-oriented cruiser that offers a level of build quality and design integrity rarely found in mass-market fiberglass boats. It remains a "sleeper" on the brokerage market, often overlooked for more common French or German brands despite its superior handling and Dutch craftsmanship.

Pros:

• Excellent performance-to-comfort ratio, particularly in light air.
• High-quality interior joinery and clever engine accessibility.
• Strong owner support and technical documentation through the Friendship Club.
• Designed by Jac. de Ridder for the demanding conditions of the North Sea.

Cons:

• Deep draft (up to 2.10m) may limit access to shallow coastal harbors and inland waterways.
• Limited production numbers make finding one outside of Northern Europe difficult.
• Racing variants can be significantly "stripped out" and less suitable for family cruising.