Renowned for their exceptional build quality and traditional aesthetics, Cabo Rico sailboats earned a devoted following among serious cruising sailors, and the 38-foot model exemplifies the builder's commitment to craftsmanship. Built in Costa Rica during the 1980s and 1990s, these vessels represented a golden era of fiberglass construction when attention to detail and robust engineering took precedence over production volume. This mid-sized cruiser strikes an appealing balance between manageable size and comfortable accommodations, making it well-suited for extended coastal cruising and capable offshore passages. The design emphasizes seaworthiness over speed, with a full keel configuration that provides excellent tracking and stability in challenging conditions. Heavy displacement construction translates to a smooth, predictable motion at sea, though performance-oriented sailors may find the sailing characteristics more deliberate than sprightly. Cabo Rico's reputation for hand-laid fiberglass work and quality hardware installations means well-maintained examples often command strong resale values decades after launch. The interior layouts typically feature solid wood joinery and thoughtful storage solutions that reflect the builder's understanding of long-distance cruising requirements. For sailors prioritizing comfort, safety, and build integrity over racing performance, the Cabo Rico 38 represents a compelling choice in the vintage cruising boat market.
- Prices are based on recent asking prices from public listings — not actual sale prices, which are typically lower.
- Condition is not factored in. A well-maintained boat with new sails and engine can be worth significantly more than a project boat of the same model.
- Location affects price. Boats in landlocked states or areas with fewer buyers often sell for less than those on the coast.
- Year of manufacture is not filtered. Older examples of this model will generally be priced lower than newer ones.
- Included equipment varies widely. A boat with a full suite of electronics, dodger, and new standing rigging may command a large premium.
- Outliers are automatically excluded using statistical filtering to improve accuracy, but some bad data may remain.
No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.
vs. Alajuela 38 Mkii, Downeaster 38, Island Packet 38