Designed by Jeanneau as part of their performance-oriented Sun Shine series, this 38-footer represents the French builder's approach to combining racing-inspired design with practical cruising capabilities. The Sun Shine line gained recognition in the 1980s for delivering spirited sailing performance without sacrificing the comfort features that make extended cruising enjoyable. This model features the characteristic French design philosophy of maximizing interior volume while maintaining clean deck lines and efficient sail handling systems. The hull design emphasizes speed and responsiveness, making it well-suited for coastal cruising, weekend racing, and longer passages where performance matters. Jeanneau's reputation for solid construction quality and thoughtful interior layouts is evident throughout the boat. The Sun Shine 38 appeals to sailors seeking a versatile platform that can handle both spirited day sailing and comfortable overnight cruising. Its size strikes an ideal balance for couples or small families wanting a boat that's manageable shorthanded yet spacious enough for extended adventures. The design reflects Jeanneau's understanding of sailors who refuse to compromise between sailing performance and onboard comfort, making it a compelling choice in the competitive 38-foot market segment.
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What is the Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.72. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau's comfort ratio?
The Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 24.53. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau safe for offshore sailing?
The Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.01. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau?
The theoretical hull speed of the Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau is 7.71 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau weigh?
The Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau has a displacement of 16,535 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.22 ft.
Who designed the Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau?
The Sun Shine 38 Jeanneau was designed by Groupe Finot, first built in 1990.