[C38] Different builds?

[Don Strong]

Dear John:
      Discreet Charm is C38 number 50 built in 1980. We all love the way 
our boats sail, the large interior of C38s, and the superior 
craftsmanship. So I will tell you what I don't like about them. Common 
to all IOR boats is the pinched stern, which means no space aft. The C36 
does not have a pinched stern. I also dislike the very restricted space 
in the engine room. To be able to view amply and work around the engine 
of a sailboat is a real plus that the C38 doesn't have.  Finally, the 
early boats like mine have small fuel tanks, 20 gals, and replacement 
with a larger fuel tank is a lot of work and expense.
     These are the only minuses that I have encountered in 8 years of 
ownership. I will say that if I had the choice to repurchase my boat I 
would. I would not buy a C36 because I think they look like pigs, and 
appearance is a big part of the hedonic pleasure one takes from a yacht. 
I wouldn't buy an Erickson to get the great engine access because they 
don't sail nearly as well as a C38. The fuel limitation can be worked 
around, it isn't a problem unless you were to want to cross oceans. I 
don't think the C38 is a great ocean crossing boat, but I'm pretty much 
a tyro about ocean crossing.
     I'll bet others have different opinions. I look forward to the 
other responses to your question.
     Regards, Don

PS. Renovation and refitting is really expensive. Buy a boat that has 
recently been renovated and refitted.

On 4/1/11 11:28 AM, John Felkins wrote:
> I'm a Cal38 admirer, not an owner (yet). I'm wondering if there are years of manufacture that are more desirable than others? I like the boat for it's pedigree, lines, size, price and the Pardeys recommendation. Now I'm starting to look more closely. Thank for any feedback!
>
> Smooth sailing,
>
> John
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-- 
Donald R. Strong
C38 Discreet Charm
Emerycove, San Francisco Bay