1988 Contest 38
LOA
11.55m (37.9ft)
Beam
3.47m (11.4ft)
Displacement
7,711kg (17,000lbs)
Year
1988–1996
Manufacturer
Contest
Full Specifications
| Specification | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ||
| Length Overall (LOA) | 11.55 m | 37.9 ft |
| Length Waterline (LWL) | 9.14 m | 30.0 ft |
| Beam | 3.47 m | 11.4 ft |
| Draft | 1.83 m | 6.0 ft |
| Mast Height | 15.50 m | 50.9 ft |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 7,711 kg | 17,000 lbs |
| Ballast | 3,175 kg | 7,000 lbs |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 61.5 m² | 662 ft² |
| Rig / Boat Type | Sloop | |
| Hull Material | Steel | |
| Keel Type | Fin | |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 35 HP | |
| Fuel Capacity | 200 L | 52.8 gal |
| Water Capacity | 300 L | 79.3 gal |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | |
| Cabins | 2 | |
| Design | ||
| Designer | Dick Zaal | |
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | |
Performance Ratios
SA/D Ratio
16.01
Moderate — adequate for cruising
Ballast Ratio
41.2%
Heavy ballast — very stiff and stable
Capsize Screening Ratio
0.70 Offshore Capable
Excellent — suitable for offshore passages
Lower is better. Values below 2.0 are considered suitable for offshore sailing.
Comfort Ratio
23.2
Moderate — acceptable for coastal cruising
About the 1988 Contest 38
The Contest 38 is a strong Dutch-built steel cruiser designed for serious offshore work. Superb build quality and a well-thought-out interior make her a favorite among European bluewater sailors.