PUMA 38-S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Puma 38-S are deeply rooted in its Holman & Pye lineage, favoring predictability and comfort over raw light-wind speed. With a hull shape influenced by the IOR 3/4 tonner principles, it features a relatively deep fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that provides exceptional tracking and protection for the steering gear in heavy seas. Owners frequently report that the vessel feels "planted" in a blow, a result of its high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which allows it to carry full sail longer than more modern, lighter cruisers.

Under sail, the boat exhibits moderate weather helm when pushed, a typical trait of its era that serves as a useful tactile feedback for the helmsman. While it lacks the surfing capabilities of modern flat-bottomed yachts, its narrow entry and substantial displacement allow it to punch through a choppy head-sea without the "slamming" associated with contemporary production boats. The 38-S is particularly lauded for its performance on a close reach; it points reasonably high for a cruiser of its vintage, though its substantial wetted surface area means it requires a solid Breeze (typically 10 knots or more) to truly wake up and reach its hull speed.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Puma 38-S was designed during an era when woodcraft was still a hallmark of quality in Spanish boatbuilding. The cabin is typically finished in warm teaks or mahoganies, providing a traditional "nautical" feel that contrasts sharply with the "IKEA-style" interiors of modern mass-produced vessels. The layout is optimized for offshore passage-making, featuring a deep, secure U-shaped galley to port and a proper forward-facing navigation station to starboard—a feature often sacrificed in newer designs.

Accommodation generally consists of a V-berth forward and a sizable owner’s cabin or quarter berth arrangement aft. The salon is noted for its generous headroom, often exceeding 6’2”, and its ability to sleep additional crew on the settee berths, which are equipped with lee cloths for use at sea. One of the notable sibling variations involves the engine compartment; while most were fitted with the Perkins 4.108, some later units transitioned to Volvo Penta units as the shipyard’s supply chain evolved during the DRESPORT acquisition phase. These later models occasionally featured slightly different cabinetry finishes, moving toward lighter wood tones.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Puma 38-S today requires a diligent survey, as many of these vessels have spent decades in high-UV Mediterranean environments.

1. Osmotic Blistering: Like many yachts from the late 70s and early 80s, Puma hulls are known to be susceptible to osmosis if they have not been treated with an epoxy barrier coat. Prospective buyers should inspect the hull after a short haul-out for any signs of "vinegar" smelling fluid or hull deformities.
2. Chainplate Anchorage: The 38-S utilizes substantial stainless steel chainplates. Over forty years, the sealant where these plates penetrate the deck can fail, leading to moisture ingress into the bulkheads. Any signs of water staining on the interior wood near the shroud lines should be treated as a high-priority structural concern.
3. Engine Longevity: The original Perkins 4.108 engines are legendary for their durability but are prone to oil leaks. A buyer should check the heat exchanger for scale buildup and the engine mounts for corrosion, as the 38-S engine bay can be a damp environment if the shaft log is dripping excessively.
4. Balsa Core Integrity: While the hull is solid fiberglass, the decks often utilize a balsa core for stiffness. Delamination or "soft spots" around high-load areas like the windlass or stanchion bases are common and can be an expensive repair if moisture has reached the core.

Community & Resources

Owners of these Spanish classics are supported by a dedicated, though primarily Spanish-speaking, community. The Association of Puma Owners (Asociación de Propietarios de Puma) is the most authoritative resource for technical drawings and original shipyard specifications. While their primary communications are in Spanish, they are the gatekeepers of the Holman & Pye design archives for these specific hulls. Additionally, the technical forums at La Taberna del Puerto contain extensive threads on the restoration and maintenance of the 38-S specifically.

The Verdict

The Puma 38-S is a "sailor’s sailboat," offering a level of structural confidence and aesthetic grace that is increasingly difficult to find on the used market. It is an ideal candidate for a couple or small family looking for a blue-water capable vessel without the premium price tag of a Hallberg-Rassy or a Swan.

Pros:

• Seaworthiness: Exceptional stability and tracking in heavy weather.
• Build Quality: Thick, hand-laid fiberglass hull with high-quality interior joinery.
• Design Pedigree: A genuine Holman & Pye design with balanced lines.

Cons:

• Age-Related Maintenance: Systems (electrical and plumbing) often require a total refit.
• Light Wind Performance: High wetted surface area makes it sluggish in winds under 8 knots.
• Market Location: Most well-maintained examples are located in Spain or the Western Mediterranean, which may complicate logistics for international buyers.