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Sailboat Specifications

Caliber 38

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Michael Mccreary · Built by Caliber Yachts (Usa) · First built 1987

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LOA 38.00 ft  ·  Beam 12.67 ft  ·  Displacement 18,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 708.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Caliber 38 Sailboat

Designed by Michael McCreary and built by Caliber Yachts starting in 1987, this 38-footer represents a thoughtful approach to coastal cruising with offshore capabilities. The fiberglass construction features a fin keel with rudder on skeg configuration, providing good directional stability while maintaining reasonable performance under sail. With a displacement of 18,500 pounds and substantial ballast of 9,000 pounds, the Caliber 38 offers the stability and sea-kindly motion that serious cruisers appreciate. The conservative comfort ratio of 28.75 and capsize screening formula of 1.92 indicate a boat designed more for safety and comfort than racing performance, making it well-suited for extended coastal passages and offshore voyaging. The masthead sloop rig carries 708 square feet of sail area, delivering a moderate sail area-to-displacement ratio that emphasizes manageable sail handling over maximum speed. Her theoretical hull speed of 7.58 knots provides respectable passage-making ability, while the 44-horsepower engine ensures reliable auxiliary power. Caliber Yachts built a reputation for solid construction and practical layouts, and the 38 exemplifies these qualities. This boat appeals to cruising couples seeking a robust, well-built vessel capable of comfortable coastal exploration with the structural integrity for occasional offshore passages.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 38.00 ft / 11.58 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 32.00 ft / 9.75 m
Beam 12.67 ft / 3.86 m
Max Draft 4.92 ft / 1.50 m
Displacement 18,500.00 lb / 8,391 kg
Ballast 9,000.00 lb / 4,082 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 708.00 ft² / 65.78 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Michael McCreary
Builder Caliber Yachts (USA)
First Built 1987
Related Sailboats Catalina 38 · Hunter 38 · Island Packet 38 · Tartan 3800 · C&C 38
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Yanmar
Engine Model 4JHBE
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 44
Fuel Capacity 46 gals / 174 L
Water Capacity 156 gals / 591 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Caliber 38's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Caliber 38 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.26. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Caliber 38's comfort ratio?

The Caliber 38 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 28.75. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Caliber 38 safe for offshore sailing?

The Caliber 38 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.92. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Caliber 38?

The theoretical hull speed of the Caliber 38 is 7.58 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Caliber 38 weigh?

The Caliber 38 has a displacement of 18,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.00 ft.

Who designed the Caliber 38?

The Caliber 38 was designed by Michael Mccreary, first built in 1987.