Design and Construction
Above the waterline, the 38T is unmistakably a classic Hans Christian, with a long bowsprit, springy sheerline, and rounded canoe stern covered with teak. Below the waterline, the hull has exceptionally rounded sections, a full keel with a cutaway forefoot, and a large barn-door rudder.
The boat’s weight is substantial. In ordinary cruising trim, it tops 30,000 pounds, and that mass is central to its behavior under sail.
Rig and Handling
The original 38T was offered with either a cutter or ketch rig, though the cutter was far more popular. It carries a significant amount of sail area for its displacement, but light-air performance still suffers under the burden of all that weight.
Owners report that the standard boat doesn’t point particularly high, with about 40 degrees of apparent wind the practical limit. In 10–15 knots of wind, it makes 6 knots to weather and 7 knots off the breeze. The first reef normally goes in at 15–18 knots, after which weather helm develops as the wind builds.
Heavy air and rough seas are where the design shows its pedigree. The 38T remains seaworthy and dry, without the bobbing or banging that can trouble lighter hulls.
Evolution and the Telstar
In 1984, one of the two 38T production molds was modified to improve performance, creating the Telstar 38 Traditional. The keel’s leading edge was moved aft, a considerable bite was taken from the trailing edge, and a revised skeg-mounted rudder was added.
The mast was moved 12 inches forward to extend its lead and greatly reduce weather helm, while the taller MkII rig became standard. Beckwith records that 167 Traditionals were built, including 30 Telstars, and judged the Telstar keel a significant improvement. It allowed the boat to point higher and perform notably better in light wind.
The MkII interior wasn’t offered on Telstars because the forward-shifted compression post blocked entry to the bunk.
Accommodations
Two interior arrangements were available from the start: one with a Pullman berth and another with a V-berth in the forepeak. Soon after the boat’s debut, a MkII interior appeared. This arrangement moved the Pullman bunk aft and relocated the head to the forepeak; the main bulkhead was also shifted aft to make room.
The MkII can be identified from outside by its truncated teak coaming at the stern, a detail otherwise shared only with the Hans Christian 33 Traditional.
Known Issues
Prospective owners should inspect the chainplates for leaks. Hoses should be checked for deterioration, and clamps examined for rust and corrosion, since early boats didn’t always use high-quality metals.
Through-hulls and seacocks also need a thorough inspection because some loosen with age. Any original teak deck that hasn’t been replaced deserves close examination as well.
The electrical system is the weakest link. Like some other Taiwanese-built boats from the 1970s and ’80s, older examples may have automotive-grade wiring that’s prone to corrosion. The looms were tucked behind teak battens and ceiling liners, making repairs expensive because of the poor wiring access.
Verdict
The 38T is a purpose-built bluewater double-ender. Its rounded hull and full keel trade light-air sparkle for composure in heavy weather. The Telstar evolution addressed the original boat’s main handling weakness without abandoning its traditional character.
It will suit a buyer prepared to accept modest upwind ability and budget for electrical remediation.
Pros
- Proven seaworthy through numerous circumnavigations
- Dry and stable in heavy air and rough seas
- Telstar variant reduces weather helm and improves light-air pointing
- Distinctive traditional styling, with identifiable MkII details
Cons
- Light-air performance suffers under its 30,000-plus-pound displacement
- Standard boat points no higher than about 40 degrees apparent
- Electrical systems are the weak link, and the wiring looms are difficult to reach
- Early hulls may have inferior metals in clamps and fittings
