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Hughes 38 3
Designer: Sparkman & Stephens  ·  Builder: Hughes Boatworks Ltd.  ·  First built: 1977
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About the Hughes 38 3

Produced by Hughes Boat Works, this 38-footer represents a practical approach to cruising sailboat design from an era when simplicity and seaworthiness were paramount considerations. The Hughes 38 3 earned recognition among sailors seeking a reliable platform for extended coastal cruising and comfortable liveaboard arrangements. Built with traditional construction methods, this design emphasizes interior volume and sailing stability over racing performance. The moderate displacement hull form provides predictable handling characteristics in varying conditions, making it well-suited for sailors transitioning from smaller boats or those prioritizing comfort during extended passages along protected coastlines. Hughes Boat Works developed a reputation for solid craftsmanship and practical layouts that maximize usable space below decks. The cockpit arrangement typically favors ease of handling for small crews, while the cabin configuration reflects the cruising priorities of its intended market. With limited production numbers compared to mass-market competitors, the Hughes 38 3 represents a more boutique approach to sailboat manufacturing. These boats appeal to sailors who appreciate traditional aesthetics combined with proven sailing characteristics, particularly those planning coastal exploration or seeking a comfortable platform for weekend cruising adventures.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 37.90 ft / 11.55 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 27.00 ft / 8.23 m
Beam 10.17 ft / 3.10 m
Max Draft 5.83 ft / 1.78 m
Displacement 14,500.00 lb / 6,577 kg
Ballast 6,400.00 lb / 2,903 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 585.00 ft² / 54.35 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Sparkman & Stephens
Builder Hughes Boatworks Ltd.
First Built 1977
Last Built 1982
Owner Reviews

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Performance Ratios
PHRF Rating PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Under 0 — Ultralight racer0–90 — Performance racer90–150 — Cruiser/racer150–210 — Typical cruiserOver 210 — Heavy/slow cruiser
 141
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
 15.8
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
 33.71
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
 1.67
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. 6.96
S# (Speed Number) The Speed Number (S#) is a quick performance index. Higher values indicate a faster, more powerful design relative to its size.
Under 3.0 — Slow cruiser3.0–5.0 — Average cruiser5.0–7.0 — Performance cruiserOver 7.0 — Racer
 1.46
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. 981.14
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 43.5
J (Foretriangle Base) 14.5
P (Mainsail Luff) 39.23
E (Mainsail Foot) 13.74
SA Fore 315.38
SA Main 269.51
Find a Hughes 38 3 For Sale
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