Wasa 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Wasa 38 is widely regarded as a "sailor’s boat," characterized by its exceptional upwind performance and responsiveness. Utilizing a relatively high sail area-to-displacement ratio, the boat excels in light to moderate conditions where heavier cruisers of the same era might struggle. Its hull shape features a fine entry and a tapered stern, which minimizes drag and allows the boat to track straight even when pressed hard.

Handling is governed by a large-diameter destroyer wheel connected to a sensitive spade rudder. Owners frequently note that the feedback is tactile, allowing the helm to feel "active" rather than numb. Because the boat is narrower than contemporary designs, it does tend to heel early, reaching its optimal "groove" at about 15 to 20 degrees. While the deep fin keel provides excellent stiffness once the boat is powered up, the Wasa 38 requires active reefing to maintain balance as the wind climbs above 18 knots. The rig is typically a fractional setup with swept-back spreaders, which allows for sophisticated mainsail trim and eliminates the need for massive, hard-to-handle overlapping genoas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to its Swedish heritage, the interior of the Wasa 38 is a masterclass in traditional joinery, primarily utilizing high-grade mahogany with a satin finish. The layout is optimized for offshore security rather than open-concept lounging. The standard configuration features a classic L-shaped galley to port, equipped with a deep icebox and pressurized water, and a forward-facing navigation station to starboard that would satisfy a professional navigator.

The salon consists of two longitudinal settees flanking a central folding table, which can double as excellent sea berths during passages. Most hulls were delivered with a two-cabin layout: a V-berth forward and a private aft cabin tucked under the cockpit. Variations exist depending on the production year; later models often featured refined cabinetry and improved overhead lighting. While the 38 provides comfortable standing headroom for most, the narrow hull means the interior feels cozy rather than cavernous. A sibling model, the Wasa 360, utilized a similar aesthetic but on a slightly shorter waterline, while the Wasa 410 offered a more expansive three-cabin arrangement for larger families.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Wasa 38 gained substantial recognition in Northern Europe through its participation in the Gotland Runt (now the AF Offshore Race), one of the world's largest offshore races. Its reputation for speed and durability made it a frequent subject of review in the Swedish publication Båtnytt, where it was often lauded for its "uncompromising" build standards. While it never achieved the global mass-market fame of brands like Beneteau, it remains a cult classic among Baltic sailors who value the craftsmanship of the Södertälje yard.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Wasa 38 requires a keen eye for maintenance items typical of high-end Swedish yachts of the 1980s and 90s.

• Teak Deck Condition: Most Wasa 38s were delivered with hand-laid teak decks. Over decades, the bungs can wear down and the caulking can fail, leading to moisture ingress into the deck core. A moisture meter test is essential during any pre-purchase survey.
• Engine Service Life: Many units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta 2003 or 2003T engines. While reliable, parts for these specific models are becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to source. Check for signs of "Volvo smoke" (white steam) which may indicate cooling system scaling.
• Rudder Bearings: Due to the high-performance nature of the spade rudder, the bearings can develop play over time. If there is a noticeable "clunk" at the helm, the bushings likely require replacement.
• Chainplate Inspection: The rig loads on the Wasa 38 are significant. It is recommended to inspect the stainless steel chainplates where they meet the bulkheads for any signs of stress cracking or water staining.

Community & Resources

Owners of these vessels are supported by the original shipyard, as Wasa Yachts continues to operate as a full-service boatyard in Södertälje. They maintain many of the original drawings and can provide technical guidance on structural repairs or original parts. While there is no singular international "Wasa Association," the Scandinavian cruising clubs (such as the Swedish Cruising Association, or SXK) have dedicated subgroups where technical data for the 38 is frequently shared among members.

The Verdict

The Wasa 38 is an elegant, fast, and robustly built cruiser that appeals to the "purist" sailor. It sacrifices the voluminous interior of modern wide-beam yachts in exchange for superior windward ability and timeless aesthetics.

Pros:

• Excellent pointing ability and light-air performance.
• Exquisite Swedish interior joinery and build quality.
• Balanced, responsive helm feel.
• Strong resale value among knowledgeable sailors.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for aging teak decks.
• Interior can feel cramped compared to modern 38-footers.
• Narrower beam results in more pronounced heeling in a breeze.
• Limited availability on the North American brokerage market.