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Sailboat Specifications

Tartan 3800

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder

Designed by Tim Jackett · Built by Tartan Marine (Usa) · First built 1994

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LOA 38.00 ft  ·  Beam 12.42 ft  ·  Displacement 16,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 665.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder
About the Tartan 3800 Sailboat

Designed by Tim Jackett and built by Tartan Marine from 1994 to 1999, this 38-foot sailboat represents the builder's commitment to performance-oriented cruising during the mid-1990s. With only 43 hulls produced during its five-year production run, the Tartan 3800 remains a relatively exclusive design that combines solid construction with respectable sailing characteristics. The boat's fin keel with bulb and spade rudder configuration, paired with a masthead sloop rig carrying 665 square feet of sail area, delivers a sail area-to-displacement ratio of 16.82 that favors spirited performance over heavy-weather comfort. The moderate displacement of 16,000 pounds and substantial ballast ratio provide stability while maintaining reasonable hull speed potential of 7.46 knots. With a comfort ratio of 26.07, this design leans toward the sportier end of the cruising spectrum, making it well-suited for coastal cruising and weekend sailing where performance matters. The capsize screening formula of 1.98 indicates good stability characteristics for offshore passages, though the boat's nature suggests it's most at home in protected waters and day sailing scenarios. Tartan's reputation for quality fiberglass construction and attention to detail makes the 3800 an appealing choice for sailors seeking a well-built, performance-minded cruiser.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 38.00 ft / 11.58 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 31.00 ft / 9.45 m
Beam 12.42 ft / 3.79 m
Max Draft 5.33 ft / 1.62 m
Displacement 16,000.00 lb / 7,257 kg
Ballast 7,000.00 lb / 3,175 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 665.00 ft² / 61.78 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Tim Jackett
Builder Tartan Marine (USA)
First Built 1994
Last Built 1999
Number Built 43
Related Sailboats C&C 38 · Catalina 38 · Hunter 380 · Imx 38 · Caliber 38
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Yanmar
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 50
Fuel Capacity 38 gals / 144 L
Water Capacity 80 gals / 303 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Tartan 3800 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.82. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Tartan 3800's comfort ratio?

The Tartan 3800 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 26.07. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Tartan 3800 safe for offshore sailing?

The Tartan 3800 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 Tartan 3800?

The theoretical hull speed of the Tartan 3800 is 7.46 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Tartan 3800 weigh?

The Tartan 3800 has a displacement of 16,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.00 ft.

Who designed the Tartan 3800?

The Tartan 3800 was designed by Tim Jackett, first built in 1994.