Hans Christian 38 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hans Christian 38 Mk II is designed for the trade winds, not the racecourse. With a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) typically exceeding 350 and a modest sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) hovering around 15, the boat requires a stiff breeze—at least 12 to 15 knots—to truly find its groove. However, once moving, its high momentum and full keel allow it to track exceptionally well through a chop, providing a motion comfort that is rarely found in modern fin-keel designs.

Handling the 38 Mk II requires an understanding of its traditional underbody. According to editorial insights from Cruising World, the vessel is a "beast of burden" that excels in heavy air, where its weight provides a sense of security and a slow, predictable motion. The cutter rig is highly versatile, allowing for various sail combinations to keep the boat balanced as the wind rises. Conversely, the boat can be a challenge in tight quarters; the combination of a long full keel and significant windage from the high freeboard and heavy rigging makes backing under power a maneuver that requires significant skill and "prop walk" anticipation.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 38 Mk II is where the "Hans Christian mystique" is most evident. The cabin is famous for its dark, rich teak surfaces, hand-carved details, and solid marble countertops in the head. The layout was designed to maximize living space for a couple on a long-term cruise, offering significant storage and deep, sea-safe berths.

There are two primary interior configurations found in the Mk II. The "Pullman" layout features a double berth positioned to port, forward of the saloon, which allows for a large, luxurious head in the forepeak. The "V-berth" layout is more traditional, placing the sleeping quarters at the bow. Both versions utilize a massive U-shaped galley that is widely considered one of the best in its class for offshore cooking. The build quality of the Mk II was a significant step up from the Mk I, with better-organized plumbing and electrical runs, though the "teak desert" aesthetic remains consistent across all variants.

The 38 Mk II is part of a larger family of Harwood Ives designs, including the Hans Christian 33, which is often viewed as a scaled-down version with similar lines, and the larger 43 and 48 models. A notable sibling built on the same philosophical framework is the Hans Christian 41 Traditional, which offered a slightly more modernized underwater profile while retaining the heavy-timber aesthetic of the 38.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hans Christian 38 has earned a legendary status among cruising authors and YouTubers who prioritize safety over speed. The model is frequently cited in blue-water guides as a premier choice for solo or couple circumnavigation. While not a "movie star" boat, it is a staple of cruising literature, often appearing in the works of Alvah Simon and other high-latitude explorers who value the boat's massive scantlings and ability to survive a grounding or a heavy storm.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach a 38 Mk II with a rigorous inspection plan, as the very features that make the boat beautiful are often its greatest maintenance liabilities.

1. Teak Decks: Most Mk IIs were built with thick teak decks screwed into a balsa or plywood-cored fiberglass sub-deck. Over decades, the "bung" and sealant fail, allowing water to migrate into the core. Refitting a Hans Christian deck is a labor-intensive project that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
2. Fuel and Water Tanks: The original tanks were often made of black iron (for fuel) and stainless steel (for water), frequently glassed into the hull or tucked deep under the furniture. If they corrode, replacement often requires cutting out parts of the beautiful teak interior.
3. Chainplates: The external chainplates are robust, but the bolts pass through the hull. If not re-bedded regularly, water can seep into the laminate.
4. Bowsprit and Spars: The massive wooden bowsprit is prone to rot if the end-grain is not perfectly sealed. Inspect the "samson posts" and the areas where the bobstay attaches for any signs of soft wood.
5. Clogged Scuppers: Because of the high bulwarks, the 38 Mk II can hold a significant amount of water on deck if the scuppers become clogged with debris, which can affect stability in a knockdown.

Community & Resources

The Hans Christian community is one of the most dedicated in the sailing world. The primary hub for technical data, refit logs, and historical archives is the Hans Christian Owners Association. This group maintains a detailed database of hull numbers and offers specific technical wikis for the 38 Mk II, covering everything from engine replacements to teak deck removal.

The Verdict

The Hans Christian 38 Mk II is a purpose-built tank of a sailboat, designed for those who value craftsmanship and sea-kindliness over modern performance metrics. It is an "emotional" boat that requires a high level of commitment to maintain, but it rewards its owners with a level of security and aesthetic pride that few contemporary boats can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional motion comfort in heavy seas.
• One of the most beautifully crafted interiors in production boat history.
• Heavy-duty hardware and overbuilt scantlings.
• Immense storage capacity for long-distance cruising.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for teak decks and brightwork.
• Sluggish performance in light air (under 10 knots).
• Difficult to maneuver in reverse due to full keel and windage.
• Potential for high-cost "hidden" repairs in tanks and deck cores.