Sailing Performance & Handling
The Tartan 38 is widely regarded as a "sailor's boat," characterized by a stiff, powerful feel and exceptional tracking. With a displacement of approximately 15,500 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio exceeding 38%, the vessel carries its sail area with authority even when the breeze freshens. Its Sparkman & Stephens lineage is evident in its upwind performance; the boat tacks through narrow angles and maintains momentum through a chop better than many lighter, modern production cruisers.
The handling characteristics are defined by a balanced helm, provided the sail plan is trimmed correctly. Owners often note that while the boat can carry a large genoa, it truly shines when depowered early, maintaining a comfortable heel angle without losing significant boat speed. The transition from the Tartan 37's Scheel keel options to the 38’s deeper fin (drawing roughly 6' 3") significantly improved lift and reduced leeway. For sailors in shallower waters, a competition-style "shoal" keel was produced, though the deep fin remains the preference for those prioritizing windward performance.
Interior Comfort & Variations
True to the Tartan "heirloom quality" philosophy, the interior of the 38 is a showcase of traditional craftsmanship, dominated by hand-oiled teak and a functional, sea-going layout. The arrangement typically features a standard V-berth forward, a large U-shaped settee to port, and a straight settee to starboard. A key differentiator for the Tartan 38 during its production run was the inclusion of a dedicated aft quarter cabin or a very large double quarter berth, which provided a level of privacy rarely seen in 38-footers of the late 1970s.
The galley is positioned to starboard at the base of the companionway, designed with deep sinks and ample bracing points for cooking underway. Headroom is generous, often exceeding 6' 2" in the main saloon, contributing to an airy feel despite the dark wood finishes. While the Tartan 38 did not see the vast number of interior variations found in the later Tartan 3800 (a Tim Jackett design), some hulls were customized with different navigational station configurations depending on the original owner’s racing or cruising priorities.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach a Tartan 38 with a focus on the structural longevity of its composite components. Like many boats of this era, the most common high-signal issue involves the balsa-cored decks. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, and cabin-top handrails can lead to core delamination, requiring expensive "drill and fill" or skin-replacement repairs.
The hull-to-deck joint, while robustly fastened, should be inspected for leaks, particularly near the bow and stern. The original engines—typically Universal or Westerbeke diesels—are now reaching the end of their reliable service life unless they have been meticulously maintained or repowered; buyers should pay close attention to the heat exchanger and exhaust elbow condition. Additionally, the aluminum mast step, which sits on a glass-reinforced stringer system, is prone to corrosion if standing water has been allowed to sit in the bilge over several seasons. Finally, the rudder assembly should be checked for "wicking" or moisture in the foam core, a common trait in older skeg-hung designs.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Tartan 38 benefit from one of the most dedicated brand communities in North America. The Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE) association serves as a primary hub for technical data, social fly-ins, and maintenance wikis. Additionally, the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club remains active, providing a wealth of shared knowledge regarding local modifications and regional racing handicaps for the S&S 38.
The Verdict
The Tartan 38 remains a premier choice for traditionalists who refuse to sacrifice build quality for modern volume. It is a robust, elegant, and fast cruiser that holds its value remarkably well.
Pros:
- Superior Sparkman & Stephens hull design for excellent upwind performance.
- High-quality teak joinery and a robust, "overbuilt" feel.
- Strong secondary market value and a very supportive owner community.
Cons:
- Balsa-cored decks are highly susceptible to moisture if deck hardware is not re-bedded.
- Deep draft may limit access to some shallow-water cruising grounds.
- The age of the fleet means most units require significant systems (electrical/plumbing) updates.
