Built during a brief two-year production run from 1990 to 1992, this distinctive collaboration between naval architect Jean Berret and renowned designer Philippe Starck represents an intriguing chapter in Beneteau's history. With only 80 hulls produced by Beneteau USA, the Moorings 38 stands as a relatively rare find in today's used boat market.
The design emphasizes comfortable coastal cruising and charter service, evidenced by its moderate displacement of 14,520 pounds and generous beam of 12.33 feet that creates spacious accommodations below. The fin keel with bulb configuration and spade rudder provide responsive handling while maintaining the 4.83-foot draft suitable for most cruising grounds. Her masthead sloop rig keeps sail handling straightforward for shorthanded crews.
With a comfort ratio of 23.67, this boat leans toward the comfortable end of the cruising spectrum rather than lightweight performance, while the capsize screening formula of 2.03 indicates reasonable stability for coastal and near-offshore sailing. The hull's 7.50-knot theoretical hull speed and reliable 24-horsepower auxiliary engine provide adequate performance for relaxed passage-making. Originally designed with charter fleets in mind, these boats typically feature robust construction and practical layouts that appeal to cruising families seeking a well-built, manageable vessel.
Ballast/Displacement
Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
Displacement/Length
Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
210.78
Comfort Ratio
Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
23.67
Capsize Screening Formula
The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
2.03
Hull Speed
Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions.
7.50 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion
Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline.
1,380.29 pounds/inch
Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make
Yanmar
Engine Model
3GM30F
Engine Type
Diesel
Horsepower
24
How It Compares
vs. Catalina 380, First 38S5 Beneteau, Morgan 381 Catalina, Oceanis 381 Beneteau, Pearson 385