1997 Baja 38 Special Sold Boat in North Jackson, OH 44444 US
38 Special
2 Engines (2x Mercury Racing)
38 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Baja boats for sale in Ohio, United States
Video of this vessel available at www.popsells.com/view/410157
Reason for selling is "Not used enough".
ANY and ALL offers will be put in front of our seller! Submit your offer today!
38 special with twin Mercury Racing 502s! Eagle Trailer with 7 new tires power winch! Heat and AC! Lots of updates!
The Baja 38 Special has the perfect blend of performance and luxury!
This one is not your average 38 Special! This one has twin Mercury Racing 500 EFI's
The seller reports that this one has newer seats, an updated engine compartment and is fully tuned up and ready to go, including newer ignition parts.
This one is sitting on a newer custom Eagle trailer with 7 newer tires, a 13000-pound power winch with battery and bearings and seals all the way around!
The outdrives have fresh oil and feature Latham high performance steering.
It has a bimini top and full camper top that are reported to be in excellent condition.
It features a large open cockpit thanks to the wide 9 foot 3 inch beam with a wraparound aft bench seat with a rear sunpad that doubles as the power engine hatch. Behind the sunpad is an integrated swim platform with a retractable swim ladder.
Up front in the cockpit are power bolster seats with new switches, but the seller reports that the power bolsters do not always function properly.
It has a huge gauge package at the helm and a rockin' stereo with multiple amps with 10 and 12-inch subwoofers!
Down below the cabin has AC and heat. In the forward section of the salon is the main birth with a curtain enclosure for privacy. The spacious cabin features wraparound seating, full head and a galley with a granite countertop, sink, refrigerator and microwave.
The seller has a newer table and Sea Dek style flooring new in the box that goes with the boat.
Don't miss your opportunity to get this proven luxury high performance boat that you can take your whole crew out on for a great time on the water!
While we will always attempt to provide you with a TRUE representation of every vessel we market, during any purchase from Pop you will be encouraged to schedule an inspection from an independent, accredited surveyor and every purchase WILL ALWAYS BE subject to your satisfaction with the results from your independent survey and your own personal trial run.
We have several more Sea Ray, Scarab, Formula, and Fountain vessels for sale. If you're in the Cleveland, Akron, Parma, or Canton areas, please contact us to let us know what you're looking for and we'll get back with you today about any other high performance boat options we have locally that may meet your needs.
You have questions? We have answers. Call us at (941) 538-7803 to discuss this vessel today.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/19/25 | Price decreased | $59,900(-3.4%) |
| 8/9/25 | Price decreased | $62,000(-5.8%) |
| 6/16/25 | Initial price | $65,800 |
Videos from Pop Yachts on this 1997 Baja 38 Special
1997 Baja 38 Special Video Tours
Baja 38 Special: BoatTEST Review
Overview
The Baja 38 Special is a high-performance powerboat that has remained in production for over a decade, earning the nickname "Old Faithful" within the Baja lineup. Designed as an evolution from the 342 model, it offers enhanced cabin space, increased headroom, and upgraded amenities, making it a versatile vessel suitable for both thrilling rides and comfortable entertaining.
Exterior Design and Cockpit
The 38 Special features a sleek, modern profile with a wider beam than traditional offshore boats, measuring 9 feet 3 inches, which contributes to its spacious cockpit and increased stability. The cockpit is thoughtfully arranged with multiple seating options, including a wraparound aft bench seat that accommodates up to five people and can be converted into a full-size sun pad without obstructing access to the wet bar. Upholstery and color choices are attractive and complemented by practical safety padding around the sink and refrigerator. The sun pad extends across the entire transom beam and doubles as the engine hatch. It is contoured for lounging and provides seamless transition to the integrated swim platform, which includes a retractable stainless steel swim ladder.
Helm and Handling
The helm station is designed for ease of use and customization, featuring a tilt steering wheel and bucket seats with drop-down bolsters, such as the McLeod power bolster seats found on the test boat. These seats provide excellent support at high speeds, which can reach up to 60 miles per hour. The windshield effectively deflects wind over the helm, maintaining clear visibility. Controls for gear shifting and throttling are ergonomically placed, and the large, well-organized gauges facilitate monitoring without distraction, contributing to the boat's reputation for being smooth and easy to handle despite its high-performance capabilities.
Interior Living Spaces
Inside the salon, the 38 Special reveals a spacious and original design. The forward main berth is partially separated by an oval-shaped entryway and privacy curtain, offering a comfortable sleeping area. The salon includes wraparound seating with plush cushions that lift to reveal ample storage, comfortably accommodating four adults overnight. The full galley is equipped with a microwave, sink, stove, and refrigerator, supporting extended stays aboard. Entertainment amenities include a TV, VCR, and a Clarion performance stereo system. Additionally, the boat features a head with a sink and a pull-out nozzle for showering, enhancing onboard convenience.
Power and Performance
Powering the Baja 38 Special are twin MerCruiser 496 Mag HO engines, each producing 425 horsepower, delivering a combined output exceeding 800 horsepower. This propulsion setup enables a top speed of 60.4 miles per hour at 4,500 RPM and an optimal cruising speed of 42.1 miles per hour at 3,500 RPM. The boat carries 225 gallons of fuel, providing a range of approximately 289 miles. The hull’s 24-degree deadrise at the transom contributes to a deep-V profile that ensures firm handling and stability during high-speed turns. While routine engine checks are accessible, the compact engine compartment may require professional assistance for more extensive maintenance.
Conclusion
Despite its decade-long production history, the Baja 38 Special remains a contemporary and compelling choice in the high-performance powerboat category. It successfully combines spacious and comfortable living quarters with excellent cockpit amenities and impressive performance capabilities. Its ease of handling, stability, and thoughtful design elements make it a versatile vessel that appeals to those seeking both adrenaline-fueled boating and enjoyable social experiences on the water.
Overview from around the web 1997 Baja 38 Special
Customers rave about the 1997 Baja 38 Special for its powerful performance and sleek design
Many highlight its impressive speed and smooth handling, making it a favorite for both cruising and watersports. Owners appreciate the spacious cockpit and comfortable seating, which make long days on the water enjoyable. The boat’s quality craftsmanship and durable build receive consistent praise, with users noting that it holds up well even after years of use. Overall, the 1997 Baja 38 Special is celebrated for combining style, speed, and reliability in one exceptional package.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1997 Baja 38 Special is a standout performance boat known for its sleek design and powerful capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:
Pros
High Performance: Equipped with powerful engines, the 38 Special delivers impressive speed and acceleration, making it ideal for thrill-seekers and racing enthusiasts.
Sleek Design: The aerodynamic hull and stylish lines not only enhance aesthetics but also improve handling and fuel efficiency.
Spacious Layout: Despite being a performance boat, it offers ample seating and storage, providing comfort for passengers during day trips.
Durability: Built with quality materials and craftsmanship, the 1997 model maintains good durability and longevity.
Versatile Use: Suitable for a variety of water activities, including cruising, watersports, and competitive racing.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: Due to its high-performance nature, the 38 Special can be less fuel-efficient compared to more economy-focused boats.
Maintenance Costs: Performance boats like the Baja 38 Special may require more frequent maintenance and upkeep, potentially increasing ownership costs.
Limited Cabin Space: While spacious for a performance boat, it lacks extensive cabin amenities, making it less ideal for overnight stays or extended trips.
Learning Curve: Handling a powerful boat like the 38 Special may require some experience, so it might not be the best choice for beginners.
Made For
The 1997 Baja 38 Special is perfect for boating enthusiasts who crave powerful performance combined with sleek, aggressive styling. Ideal for those who enjoy high-speed offshore runs, this boat appeals to adrenaline seekers and sport boat lovers looking for a reliable, eye-catching vessel that delivers both speed and handling on the water. Whether you’re into competitive racing or thrilling weekend rides, the Baja 38 Special offers the performance and design to match your passion.
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Boat Location
Contact Pop Yachts about 1997 Baja 38 Special
5717 Bessie Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34233































































































































































