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Sailboat Specifications

Bristol 3800

Masthead Sloop · Keel/Cbrd.

Designed by Ted Hood · Built by Bristol Yachts Inc. · First built 1982

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LOA 38.25 ft  ·  Beam 12.08 ft  ·  Displacement 19,150.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 744.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Keel/Cbrd.
About the Bristol 3800 Sailboat

With limited documentation available, the Bristol 3800 represents one of the more elusive models from Bristol Yachts' distinguished lineup. Bristol's reputation for building robust, well-constructed cruising sailboats suggests this 38-footer likely followed the company's established principles of quality fiberglass construction and thoughtful design for serious coastal and offshore cruising. Bristol Yachts earned acclaim throughout their production years for creating boats that balanced performance with comfort, typically featuring solid hand-laid hulls, well-appointed interiors, and reliable sailing characteristics. The company's vessels were known for their ability to handle challenging conditions while providing comfortable accommodations for extended cruising. Given Bristol's design philosophy and the boat's size, the 3800 was most likely intended for couples or small families seeking a capable cruiser for coastal exploration and potentially longer passages. Bristol boats generally appealed to sailors who prioritized build quality and seaworthiness over cutting-edge performance, making them popular choices for serious cruising sailors. The scarcity of detailed information about this particular model may reflect limited production numbers, making any well-maintained example potentially valuable to collectors of Bristol's respected lineage.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 38.25 ft / 11.66 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.58 ft / 9.32 m
Beam 12.08 ft / 3.68 m
Max Draft 10.25 ft / 3.12 m
Min Draft 4.50 ft / 1.37 m
Displacement 19,150.00 lb / 8,686 kg
Ballast 9,000.00 lb / 4,082 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 744.00 ft² / 69.12 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/Cbrd.
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG vinylester w/balsa deck
Designer Ted Hood
Builder Bristol Yachts Inc.
First Built 1982
Related Sailboats Bristol 388 · Pearson 385 · Catalina 380 · Endeavour 38 · Malo 38
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Engine & Accommodations
Horsepower 44
Fuel Capacity 36
Water Capacity 100
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bristol 3800's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bristol 3800 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.69. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bristol 3800's comfort ratio?

The Bristol 3800 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 32.6. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bristol 3800 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bristol 3800 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.81. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bristol 3800?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bristol 3800 is 7.41 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bristol 3800 weigh?

The Bristol 3800 has a displacement of 19,150.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.25 ft.

Who designed the Bristol 3800?

The Bristol 3800 was designed by Ted Hood, first built in 1982.