Little Harbor 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing version of the Little Harbor 38 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, designed with a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 308.7. This high ratio translates to a motion that is remarkably "kind" in a seaway, resisting the jerky accelerations found in lighter modern hulls. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 15.8, the boat is conservatively rigged, favoring stability and heavy-weather safety over light-air agility. It is often described by owners as a "stiff" boat that stands up well to its canvas, a characteristic reinforced by its healthy ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 41%.

Handling is defined by Ted Hood’s signature keel/centerboard configuration. With the board up, the boat draws only 4.5 feet, allowing it to navigate shallow coastal waters usually reserved for much smaller craft. When the board is lowered to its full 9.5-foot depth, the yacht gains significant tracking and upwind lift, transforming into a capable offshore contender. According to technical data from SailboatLab, the boat possesses an excellent Comfort Ratio of 35.81 and a Capsize Screening Formula of 1.73, placing it well within the elite category of vessels suitable for transoceanic passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to the "Little Harbor" pedigree, the interior of the 38 is a showcase of traditional craftsmanship, typically finished in hand-rubbed satin teak or cherry. The layout is optimized for a couple or a small family, featuring a large V-berth forward and a spacious main salon with a folding teak table. Most units were built with a dedicated navigation station and a U-shaped galley that provides security for the cook while underway.

The sailboat version saw very few structural variations during its short production run, though individual owners often customized the cabinetry. In contrast, the later WhisperJet 38 powerboat variant (built by Little Harbor and eventually Hinckley) significantly altered the living experience by prioritizing a large, open bridge deck and a luxurious master cabin forward, often utilizing lighter woods and contemporary fabrics to create a "Downeast" aesthetic. The WhisperJet variant also introduced the Hinckley JetStick system in later hulls, which maximized the vessel’s utility as a high-speed day cruiser or weekend explorer.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the 38-foot sailboat is a rare "connoisseur’s" boat, the Little Harbor 38 WhisperJet gained significant acclaim in the nautical press during the 1990s. It was often highlighted in Soundings and Power & Motoryacht for its innovative use of waterjet propulsion, a technology Ted Hood championed to reduce draft and increase safety in lobster-pot-laden waters. The WhisperJet 38 "Magic" is frequently cited in editorialized listings by Wellington Yacht Partners as a premier example of the model's enduring value and "ultimate shallow-water" capabilities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a 1980s Little Harbor 38 sailboat must prioritize the following technical inspections:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many high-end yachts of its era, the 38 utilized a balsa-cored deck. Moisture intrusion around stanchions, chainplates, and the windlass is a common point of failure that can lead to expensive delamination.
• Centerboard Trunk and Pennant: The mechanical system for the centerboard requires periodic maintenance. The pennant should be inspected for fraying, and the trunk itself should be checked for "clunking," which indicates worn bushings.
• Teak Deck Wear: Original teak decks were often screwed into the sub-deck. After 40 years, the bungs may be thin, and the screws can become conduits for water into the core.
• Jet Drive Maintenance (WhisperJet Models): For those looking at the power variant, the Hamilton waterjets require specialized servicing. Corrosion in the buckets or wear in the impellers can significantly degrade performance and maneuverability.

Community & Resources

The legacy of these vessels is supported by the broader Little Harbor and Hood Yacht owners' community. While no dedicated "38-only" club exists, technical support and historical documentation are often shared through the Little Harbor Owners Association. Additionally, because Hinckley Yachts acquired the brand in 1999, their service yards in Maine and Rhode Island remain the primary authority for refits and structural documentation for both the sailing and power variants.

The Verdict

The Little Harbor 38 is a "forever boat" for the sailor who values substance and pedigree over modern trends.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Hand-built in Taiwan during the golden age of semi-custom construction.
• Shallow Water Access: The keel/centerboard design allows for gunkholing in areas off-limits to other 40-foot cruisers.
• High Resale Value: Their rarity and Ted Hood's reputation ensure they remain highly liquid in the brokerage market.

Cons:

• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared for the high costs of maintaining extensive exterior brightwork and aging teak decks.
• Weight: Her heavy displacement makes her less competitive in light winds without specialized reaching sails.
• Limited Production: Finding an available hull can be a years-long endeavor due to the low number of units built.