Overview
The Yankee 38 is a Sparkman & Stephens design developed from the 1971 One Ton Cup racer Lightnin’. Yankee Yachts built 30 between 1972 and 1975; after the company closed, the molds went to Frank Butler and became the Catalina 38.
Design and Construction
It has a swept fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder steered by tiller. sailboatdata.com lists 38.17 ft overall on a 28.75 ft waterline, 11.75 ft of beam and 6.25 ft of draft. Displacement is 16,000 lb with 7,327 lb of lead ballast, and the masthead sloop carries about 638 sq ft.
Under Sail
Owners describe her as solid and over-built, sailing well in strong wind and rough water; one has been out in 35 knots and found she did well.
Buyers Notes
John Neal rates it 2 of 5 and calls it inexpensive, very capable and great value. With the builder long gone, some parts may be shared with the Catalina 38, though deck and interior differ.
