Moorings 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Moorings 38 is widely regarded as a "sleeper" in terms of performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 18.4 and a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of 210, it sits firmly in the category of a moderate performance cruiser. The Jean Berret hull is easily driven, showing significant acceleration in light to moderate air where heavier cruisers might struggle. Its fin keel with a bulb provides a solid righting moment, though the shoal-draft version (common in the Caribbean charter fleet) sacrifices some upwind pointing ability compared to its deep-finned siblings.

Under sail, the boat is known for its responsiveness and "ardent" nature in stronger breezes. The spade rudder provides immediate feedback, allowing for precise steering, though some owners report that the boat requires early reefing to stay balanced once the wind exceeds 15-18 knots. The motion is typical of a light-to-moderate displacement Beneteau; it is lively and communicative, which may feel active in a seaway compared to a heavy-displacement blue-water boat, but it excels at reaching and downwind runs where it can reliably maintain 7+ knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Moorings 38 was a departure from traditional nautical aesthetics of the early 1990s, featuring the avant-garde touch of Philippe Starck. The most common configuration is the three-cabin, one-head "charter" layout, which was remarkably efficient for a 38-foot hull. Two double cabins are situated aft under the cockpit, while the V-berth forward serves as a primary suite.

The salon is designed with an open-plan feel, featuring an L-shaped galley and a central dining table that can accommodate up to six guests. Headroom is generous at approximately 6’2”, and the use of deck hatches and ports ensures significant natural light. While the Beneteau Oceanis 381—a later evolutionary cousin—offered even more interior volume, the Moorings 38 balanced this with a sleeker coachroof profile and superior sailing lines. Variations often include different cabinetry finishes, though the signature Starck-influenced aluminum accents and curved woodwork remain a hallmark of the era.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several technical areas specific to Beneteau builds of the early 1990s:

• Headliner Adhesion: The most pervasive issue with this era of Beneteau is the "sagging headliner." The foam-backed vinyl frequently delaminates from the fiberglass overhead, necessitating a messy and labor-intensive replacement or mechanical fastening.
• Rudder & Bearing Wear: The spade rudder is a high-stress component. Surveyors should check for moisture ingress in the rudder blade and play in the bearings, which can lead to vibration or heavy steering.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: As an ex-charter vessel, "smile" cracks at the forward end of the keel-to-hull joint should be inspected. While often cosmetic, they can indicate a past grounding that requires structural reinforcement of the grid system.
• Chainplate Leaks: Water ingress around the chainplates can lead to moisture in the plywood bulkheads. Check for staining or soft spots in the wood near the shroud attachments.
• Electrical System Upgrades: Many original Moorings 38s were equipped with basic electrical systems designed for short-duration chartering. Buyers intended for long-term cruising typically need to overhaul the battery banks and charging systems.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Moorings 38 benefit from the extensive network of the Beneteau Owners Association, which provides technical documentation and parts sourcing for vintage models. Because the boat shares many components and its hull design with the First 38s5 and the later Oceanis 38 series, technical support is more readily available than for more obscure production brands.

The Verdict

The Moorings 38 is an excellent choice for the sailor who refuses to compromise on sailing sensation but needs a practical platform for family cruising.

Pros:

• Superior sailing performance compared to modern high-volume charter boats.
• Efficient three-cabin layout provides exceptional utility for its length.
• Sturdy construction that has proven its durability in demanding charter environments.
• Strong resale value and parts availability due to the Beneteau heritage.

Cons:

• Aesthetic issues like sagging headliners are common and difficult to fix.
• Shoal draft limits upwind performance in racing scenarios.
• Light displacement results in a more active motion in heavy seas.