Trekker 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The design philosophy behind the Trekker 38 focuses on "slippery" hull dynamics and high stability. Simonis Voogd designs are characterized by their ability to perform well across the wind spectrum, and the Trekker 38 is no exception. It features a modern underbody with a deep fin keel and a high-aspect balanced spade rudder, which provides exceptional tracking and lift when sailing upwind.

In heavy weather, the hull’s relatively narrow entry and flat sections aft allow it to plane under the right conditions while remaining predictable in a following sea. According to technical archives from the designer, the boat was optimized for the IRC rating system of the time, emphasizing a powerful sail plan that can be easily depowered. The fractional rig allows for precise headstay tension control, a feature highly valued by performance-oriented sailors. While the boat is stiff and capable of carrying significant sail area, the light displacement means it requires active trimming to maintain its optimal "groove" compared to a heavier cruising boat.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many "stripped-out" racers of the 1990s, the Trekker 38 was finished with a sophisticated interior intended for extended stays aboard. The most common configuration is a three-cabin layout, featuring a V-berth forward and two symmetrical cabins tucked under the cockpit. The main salon is traditionally arranged with a central folding table and settee berths, providing ample social space.

The interior joinery often utilizes high-quality African hardwoods, such as Cherry or Teak, which lends a custom-build aesthetic to the cabin. Headroom is generous for a boat of this performance profile, typically exceeding 6 feet in the main salon. Variations of the model exist depending on the specific owner's requirements at the time of build; some versions emphasize a more "open plan" feel with a larger navigation station, while others prioritize storage for blue-water passage making. The Trekker 38 is closely related to its larger sibling, the Trekker 42 (often associated with the Fast 42 design), which shares the same design DNA but offers a larger aft cockpit and expanded galley facilities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Trekker 38 should focus their inspections on the technical aspects of its high-performance construction:

• Core Integrity: Because the hull and deck utilize vacuum-bagged foam cores, a professional moisture meter test and percussion "tap" test are essential. Areas around deck hardware (cleats, stanchions, and winches) should be checked for signs of compression or delamination where water may have entered the core.
• Keel Attachment: Given the high righting moments generated by the deep keel, the internal grid system and keel bolts should be inspected for any signs of "smile" cracks at the hull-keel joint or movement in the structural floors.
• Standing Rigging: Many Trekker 38s were equipped with high-performance rod rigging or dyform wire. Buyers should verify the age of the standing rigging, as these boats are often sailed hard, putting significant fatigue on the terminal fittings.
• Engine Access: Due to the performance-hull shape, the engine compartment can be tight. Check the saildrive diaphragm (if equipped) and the condition of the engine mounts, as vibrations in a light, stiff hull can lead to accelerated wear.

Community & Resources

While there is no single-brand international association, owners and enthusiasts typically congregate within the broader Simonis Voogd design community. Technical support and original design drawings can often be sourced directly through the Simonis Voogd Design office, which maintains an active presence in the naval architecture industry.

The Verdict

The Trekker 38 remains a "sailor’s boat," rewarding those who appreciate fine-tuning and tactical sailing without sacrificing the amenities required for coastal or offshore cruising.

Pros

• Exceptional upwind performance and light-air agility.
• High-quality epoxy construction reduces the risk of osmotic blistering.
• Elegant, classic-modern interior that feels more "yacht-like" than many modern production boats.

Cons

• Light displacement requires more active sail management in gusty conditions.
• Deep draft may limit access to some shallow-water cruising grounds.
• Relatively niche model, which may require more time to source specific replacement parts.