Westwind 38 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Westwind 38 is defined by its modified full keel with a cutaway forefoot and a protected, skeg-hung rudder. This underwater profile, a hallmark of Ted Brewer Yacht Design philosophy, strikes a balance between the tracking stability of a full keel and the maneuverability of a fin keel. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavy side, the boat is not particularly "light-aired" in its performance; however, once the wind exceeds 12–15 knots, the hull settles into a steady, predictable groove.

Owners often report that the boat excels in heavy weather, where its high ballast ratio allows it to carry sail longer than lighter performance cruisers. The motion at sea is described as "kindly," with a slow period of roll that reduces crew fatigue during long passages. Because it was often rigged as a cutter or a sea-slop (a sloop with an inner forestay), the Westwind 38 offers a versatile sail plan that allows for easy reefing and balanced handling when the wind rises. The helm remains responsive, though it lacks the fingertip sensitivity of a modern spade-rudder design, providing instead a firm sense of directional stability that is well-suited for wind-vane steering.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Westwind 38 reflects the high standard of Canadian craftsmanship of its era, featuring extensive use of solid teak and high-quality veneers. The layout is traditional and offshore-oriented, typically featuring a large V-berth forward, a head with a shower to port, and a hanging locker to starboard. The main salon is characterized by its warmth, usually configured with a U-shaped dinette that can be converted into a double berth, and a straight settee opposite.

One of the standout features of the Brewer design is the functional galley, often located at the base of the companionway for optimal ventilation and accessibility for the cook while underway. The inclusion of a dedicated, forward-facing navigation station is a nod to the boat’s blue-water intentions. While most units were finished as standard sloops, a few variants were produced with customized cabinetry or slight adjustments to the aft quarter-berth configuration to accommodate different owner requirements. Headroom is generous for a 38-foot boat of this vintage, typically exceeding 6'3", which contributes to an airy feel despite the dark wood finishes.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Westwind 38 with a checklist focused on the longevity of its core materials and systems.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Westwind 38 used a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the windlass is a common point of failure. A professional moisture meter test is essential to ensure the core has not become delaminated.
• Chainplates: The original stainless steel chainplates are now decades old. Given the boat's offshore pedigree, these should be carefully inspected for crevice corrosion, particularly where they pass through the deck.
• Rudder Post and Skeg: The skeg-hung rudder is robust, but the bushings can wear over time, leading to play in the steering. Additionally, the joint where the skeg meets the hull should be inspected for stress cracking or "smile" lines.
• Original Engine Condition: Many units were originally fitted with Perkins or older Westerbeke diesels. While these are reliable "workhorse" engines, their age means that cooling systems, heat exchangers, and exhaust elbows likely require overhaul or replacement if not already modernized.

Community & Resources

While there is no singular dedicated manufacturer website active today, the Westwind 38 community is primarily served by the broader Ted Brewer design enthusiasts and the Ted Brewer Yacht Design office itself, which still maintains archives for many of his classic designs. Technical discussions and owner modifications are frequently documented within regional cruising clubs in the Pacific Northwest and the Great Lakes, where the majority of these hulls remain in service.

The Verdict

The Westwind 38 is a quintessential "sailor’s boat"—a sturdy, aesthetically pleasing cruiser that prioritizes safety and comfort over raw speed. It is an ideal candidate for a couple or a small family looking to transition into blue-water cruising on a budget, provided they are willing to invest in the maintenance of a classic fiberglass hull.

Pros:

• Exceptional sea-kindliness and heavy-weather stability.
• High-quality Canadian construction and beautiful teak joinery.
• Proven blue-water design by a legendary naval architect.
• Protective skeg-hung rudder and moderate draft for versatile cruising.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
• Potential for high maintenance costs related to aging balsa-cored decks.
• Limited availability on the brokerage market due to low production numbers.