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Sailboat Specifications

Ericson 381

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Bruce King · Built by Ericson Yachts (Usa) · First built 1982

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LOA 37.50 ft  ·  Beam 12.00 ft  ·  Displacement 14,400.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 678.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Ericson 381 Sailboat

Designed by the renowned Bruce King and built by Ericson Yachts from 1982 to 1986, this 37.5-foot masthead sloop represents a thoughtful blend of performance and comfort during sailing's golden era of fiberglass construction. With only 39 hulls produced, the 381 remains a relatively rare find that appeals to discerning sailors seeking both quality and exclusivity. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration delivers responsive handling and solid windward performance, while the moderate displacement of 14,400 pounds strikes an excellent balance between speed and seaworthiness. Her substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 44% provides impressive stability and stiffness under sail, making her well-suited for both spirited coastal sailing and extended offshore passages. King's design philosophy shines through in the boat's proportions, with a waterline length of 30.5 feet generating a theoretical hull speed of 7.40 knots. The comfortable beam of 12 feet creates spacious accommodations below while maintaining elegant lines above. Her moderate comfort ratio suggests she'll handle ocean swells with composure, while the low capsize screening value indicates good stability characteristics. This combination makes the 381 an excellent choice for serious cruising sailors who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and proven seakeeping abilities.

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Known Issues View all 8 issues →
High
Balsa core was used extensively in the deck construction. Water intrusion through deck hardware fasteners and fittings causes balsa core rot, particularly around chainplates, stanchion bases, and winch pads. Tap-testing the deck for soft spots is essential.
High
The fin keel attachment on the 381 uses keel bolts that are prone to corrosion and weeping, sometimes evidenced by rust staining in the bilge sump area. The keel-to-hull joint should be closely inspected for cracking or separation, as some examples have shown movement.
High
Chainplate knees on the 381 are glassed to the hull liner rather than to the structural hull itself in some configurations. Delamination of the chainplate backing structure has been reported and represents a serious standing rigging attachment concern.
+ 5 more issues — see full list →
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 37.50 ft / 11.43 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.50 ft / 9.30 m
Beam 12.00 ft / 3.66 m
Max Draft 6.50 ft / 1.98 m
Displacement 14,400.00 lb / 6,532 kg
Ballast 6,300.00 lb / 2,858 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 678.00 ft² / 62.99 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Bruce King
Builder Ericson Yachts (USA)
First Built 1982
Last Built 1986
Number Built 39
Associations Ericson Yachts Information
Related Sailboats Cc 38 3 · Cc 37 · Pearson 37 2 · Landfall 38 Cc · Nantucket Island 38
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ericson 381's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Ericson 381 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.39. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Ericson 381's comfort ratio?

The Ericson 381 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 24.94. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Ericson 381 safe for offshore sailing?

The Ericson 381 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.98. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Ericson 381?

The theoretical hull speed of the Ericson 381 is 7.40 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Ericson 381 weigh?

The Ericson 381 has a displacement of 14,400.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 37.50 ft.

Who designed the Ericson 381?

The Ericson 381 was designed by Bruce King, first built in 1982.