Designed by Thomas Wylie and built by Westerly Marine starting in 1984, this 38-footer represents the era's emphasis on performance-oriented cruising sailboats. With its fin keel and spade rudder configuration, the Wylie 38 delivers responsive handling characteristics that make it well-suited for both coastal cruising and club racing. The boat's moderately aggressive design philosophy is evident in its specifications. At 9,500 pounds displacement with 5,100 pounds of ballast, it strikes a balance between stability and performance. The sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 23.87 indicates sprightly performance in light to moderate conditions, while the comfort ratio of 17.03 suggests it prioritizes sailing efficiency over ultimate cruising comfort. Wylie's design features a masthead sloop rig that provides versatile sail handling options for both racing and cruising applications. The hull's proportions, with a waterline length of 31.67 feet, enable a theoretical hull speed of 7.54 knots. The capsize screening formula of 2.16 places it within acceptable parameters for coastal and near-offshore sailing. This fiberglass construction boat appeals to sailors seeking a performance-oriented vessel capable of weekend racing while maintaining reasonable accommodations for coastal cruising adventures. Its design reflects the 1980s trend toward faster, more responsive sailing yachts.
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What is the Wylie 38's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Wylie 38 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 23.87. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Wylie 38's comfort ratio?
The Wylie 38 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 17.03. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Wylie 38 safe for offshore sailing?
The Wylie 38 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.16. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Wylie 38?
The theoretical hull speed of the Wylie 38 is 7.54 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Wylie 38 weigh?
The Wylie 38 has a displacement of 9,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.25 ft.
Who designed the Wylie 38?
The Wylie 38 was designed by Thomas Wylie, first built in 1984.