Sailing Performance & Handling
The Comfort 38 MS is a quintessential "50/50" motorsailer, designed to prioritize stability and comfort over raw sailing speed. With a displacement of approximately 21,000 lbs and a modest sail area of roughly 562 square feet, the boat relies on its mass to deliver a "big boat" feel. It typically features a masthead ketch rig, which provides a versatile sail plan for short-handed crews to balance the helm in varying wind conditions. The long keel and substantial 4,500 lbs of ballast ensure excellent tracking and a dampened motion in a seaway, though its pointing ability is limited compared to modern fin-keel cruisers. Under power, the vessel is usually equipped with a 60–80 HP diesel engine—often a Perkins 4-236 or similar—allowing it to maintain a cruising speed of 7 knots regardless of the wind. Anecdotal reports from owners emphasize that while it is not a light-air performer, it is an exceptionally safe platform that can be driven hard into a head sea without the "hobby-horsing" common in lighter vessels.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The hallmark of the Comfort 38 MS is its high-volume interior and true pilothouse layout. The design features an "upstairs" salon and steering station that provides 360-degree visibility, a luxury rarely found in 38-foot sailboats of this era. Most configurations utilize a two-cabin arrangement: a V-berth forward with an adjacent head and a separate aft cabin. The aft cabin was frequently customized, with some versions featuring two single berths and others a queen-size "island" berth, as seen in models modified for long-term liveaboard use. The joinery is typical of high-end Taiwanese yards of the period, utilizing heavy teak or mahogany throughout. Sibling models of the period, such as the Monk 36 Trawler, share similar interior styling and the famous "galley-down" or "salon-galley" options, though the 38 MS includes a deeper bilge and structural reinforcements for the mast steps and chainplates.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
As a product of the "Taiwanese Pilothouse" era, the Comfort 38 MS is susceptible to specific age-related technical issues common to boats of its vintage:
- Fuel Tank Integrity: The original mild steel or black iron fuel tanks are often at the end of their lifespan. Inspection for corrosion at the bottom of the tanks is critical, as replacement often requires significant cabinetry work.
- Teak Deck Leakage: If the vessel still features original teak-over-fiberglass decks, the hundreds of screw fasteners are potential sites for core saturation. A moisture meter test of the sub-deck is essential.
- Window and Port Sealing: The large pilothouse windows are prone to leaking, which can damage the high-quality interior woodwork if left unaddressed.
- Wiring Standards: Original 1980s wiring may not meet modern ABYC standards and often requires an overhaul to support modern electronics and inverter systems.
- Engine Service Access: While the engine room is spacious for a sailboat, buyers should check the condition of the exhaust riser and heat exchanger on older Perkins units.
Community & Resources
Due to its rarity, there is no dedicated "Comfort 38" association; however, owners often integrate into the broader Monk Trawler Owners Association or the Pacific Northwest Edwin Monk Design Group. These communities provide technical support for the hull's design quirks and advice on restoring the traditional woodwork characteristic of Monk’s vision.
The Verdict
The Monk SR. Comfort 38 MS is a sturdy, character-rich motorsailer that excels as a coastal liveaboard or a reliable cruiser for higher latitudes.
Pros:
- Exceptional Visibility: The pilothouse design allows for comfortable "inside" steering during inclement weather.
- Traditional Aesthetics: Features classic lines and a level of woodwork rarely found in modern production boats.
- Seaworthiness: A heavy-displacement hull and long keel provide a safe, stable ride in heavy seas.
Cons:
- Limited Sailing Performance: Struggles in light winds and does not point well to weather.
- Maintenance Intensive: Older teak decks and fuel tanks require ongoing attention or expensive upgrades.
- Rarity: With only nine built, finding specific spare parts or identical sisterships for reference can be challenging.
