1991 Beneteau 38

$49,500

Used

Boat in Charlotte, VT 05445 US

builtBuilt in 1991
Year the boat was built
model

38

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Yanmar)

Engine type and count
length

38 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Length Overall
38ft
Length at Waterline
33.75ft
Beam
12.42ft
Max Draft
5.17ft
Ballast
4850lb
Fresh Water Tanks
98gal
Fuel Tanks
29gal
Holding Tanks
13gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
Yanmar
Engine Model
3YM30
Total Power
30hp
Engine Hours
600
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
2010
Summary
Beneteau 38s5
Accommodations

Aft Cockpit with single wheel steering and scoop transom. V-berth and head forward. Main cabin with port and starboard settees. Centerline drop leaf table. Navigation table and second head aft to starboard. Galley and double aft cabin to port.

  • 6'2" headroom
  • Jensen JHD 408T bluetooth stereo system


Galley

  • Double stainless steel sink
  • New galley faucet (2019)
  • Icebox
  • Isotherm 2031 refrigeration (2021)
  • Eno 3 burner propane stove with oven
  • Manual water system
  • Hot and cold pressure water system


Forward Head

  • Vanity and sink
  • Privacy door
  • Hot and cold water system
  • Hand held shower with sump pump
  • Manual head with deck pump out system


Aft Head

  • Vanity and sink
  • Privacy door
  • Hot and cold water system
  • Hand held shower with sump pump
  • Manual head with deck pump out system



Electrical
  • 12v DC system
  • (2) 12v House batteries
  • (1) 12v Engine start battery
  • battery parallel switch
  • (2) 100w flexible solar panels
  • Victron MPPT 100/20 solar controller
  • 110v AC system
  • Heart Freedom Inverter / charger
  • 110v shore power cord
  • search light


Mechanical
  • Wheel steering
  • Emergency tiller
  • Racor fuel/water separator
  • New Kuuma hot water heater
  • Diesel fuel polishing system
  • Maxprop folding propeller (rebuilt 2022)


Deck

Aft cockpit with scoop transom

  • New cockpit canvas - dodger / bimini / connector / side curtains (2014)
Sails and Rigging

Aluminum Mast, stepped on deck

  • New 5/16" 1x19 Forestay (2011)
  • New triradial mainsail (2022)
  • New tides marine mainsail track on mast (2022)
  • New 130% Genoa (2022)
  • New VPC Jib/Spin Halyards (2017/2018)
Construction and Maintenance
  • Decks - original gelcoat
  • Topsides - original gelcoat
  • Hull bottom - Interlux bottomkote NT (5/2024)
  • Bottom soda blasted (9/2015)
  • Bottom barrier coated with Interlux 2000e and bottomkote (5/2016)
  • All lenses on 10 opening ports, removed and replaced, new screens fabricated
Mechanical Disclaimer

Engine and hours are estimated as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.

Disclaimer

The company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change or withdrawal without notice.

Price History

DateEventPrice
4/9/26Price decreased$49,500(-10.0%)
4/14/25Initial price$55,000

Contact Bruce Hill Yacht Sales

4520 Harbor Rd., Shelburne, VT, 05482

Boattest.com Review

Boat Test Review on BoatTest.com

Overview

The Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 is designed as a sport cruiser, emphasizing performance and handling. A standout feature of this model is the patented Beneteau Airstep hull, which has been shown in prior tests to enhance performance across various parameters. This review aims to verify those claims specifically for the 38-foot model.

Helm and Bridge Design

The helm station is thoughtfully laid out with controls angled at approximately 40 degrees. The joystick is positioned just ahead of the controls, and despite the non-horizontal orientation, the digital controls operate smoothly. The helm includes convenient cubby holes on either side for storage and ample space for a multifunction display in the center. An analog gauge panel is located forward, featuring a rudder angle indicator centrally placed for easy reference. One noted drawback is the absence of an electric vent at the bottom of the windscreen, which limits ventilation at the helm when underway, relying instead on side windows for cross ventilation.

Power and Performance

Powered by twin Volvo Penta D4 300 horsepower diesel engines coupled with DP stern drives, the Gran Turismo 38 demonstrated impressive performance during testing. With an empty weight of 16,464 pounds and a test load of just over 18,000 pounds including fuel and three people, the boat achieved a top speed of 34.7 knots at 3,500 rpm. At this speed, fuel consumption was 39.7 gallons per hour, yielding a range of 181 nautical miles. The most efficient cruise speed was found at 3,000 rpm, delivering 28.7 knots with a fuel burn of 21.3 gallons per hour and a range of 208 nautical miles, accounting for a 10% fuel reserve. Acceleration was notably quick, reaching planing speed in 5.4 seconds, 20 miles per hour in 7.6 seconds, and surpassing 30 miles per hour in 12.3 seconds. The boat maintained a bow-high attitude of about 12 degrees during acceleration, settling to approximately five degrees at cruising speed, ensuring clear forward visibility throughout.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Airstep hull design significantly enhanced the Gran Turismo 38's handling characteristics. The boat exhibited smooth and controlled responses when encountering wakes and waves, with no noticeable pounding despite the forward spray rails and hard chines. Maneuverability was excellent, with the vessel maintaining stability and shedding wakes efficiently during tight turns around a camera boat. The reviewer emphasized that the Airstep hull contributed markedly to these handling benefits, comparing favorably to other boats in its class.

Visibility and Operational Considerations

One limitation identified during the test was visibility from the helm. The center-mounted position combined with a thick overhead structure required the captain to frequently adjust head position to maintain clear sightlines, especially during turns. This aspect may require attention for operators prioritizing unobstructed views.

Conclusion

Overall, the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 impressed with its blend of performance, handling, and thoughtful helm design. The patented Airstep hull proved to be a defining feature, delivering quick acceleration, smooth ride quality, and agile maneuvering. While visibility from the helm could be improved, the boat offers a pleasurable driving experience that reflects well on Beneteau's design team. The Gran Turismo 38 stands out as a capable and enjoyable sport cruiser.

Overview from around the web 1991 Beneteau 38

Customers appreciate the 1991 Beneteau 38 for its solid build quality and spacious interior layout, which makes it comfortable for both cruising and living aboard

Many highlight its balanced sailing performance, noting that it handles well in a variety of conditions and is responsive under sail. The boat's ample storage and well-designed deck arrangement receive positive remarks, contributing to ease of handling and extended voyages. Some users mention that while the design reflects its early 1990s origins, with occasional updates it remains a reliable and enjoyable vessel for coastal and offshore sailing. Overall, the 1991 Beneteau 38 is praised for offering a great blend of comfort, performance, and value.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1991 Beneteau 38 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and classic design. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Solid Construction: Built with quality materials and craftsmanship, the Beneteau 38 is known for its durability and seaworthiness.

Spacious Interior: For a 38-foot boat, it offers a roomy and comfortable cabin layout, with ample headroom and storage, making it ideal for extended cruising.

Good Performance: The hull design and sail plan provide balanced handling and respectable speed, suitable for both coastal cruising and longer passages.

Easy Handling: The boat’s rigging and deck layout are designed for ease of handling, which is beneficial for short-handed or family sailing.

Versatile Layout Options: The 1991 model often features flexible interior configurations, including multiple cabins and heads, accommodating various cruising needs.

Cons

Older Systems: Being a 1991 model, some onboard systems such as electrical, plumbing, and engine components may be dated and require maintenance or upgrades.

Weight: The boat’s displacement is on the heavier side, which can affect light wind performance compared to more modern, lighter designs.

Limited Tankage: Fuel and water tank capacities are modest, so longer voyages may require careful planning or additional storage solutions.

Outdated Styling: While classic, the interior and exterior styling may feel dated compared to contemporary models, potentially necessitating cosmetic updates.

Market Availability: As an older boat, finding specific replacement parts or original equipment for the Beneteau 38 might be more challenging.

Made For

The 1991 Beneteau 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and reliable cruiser that balances comfort and performance. It’s perfect for couples or small families looking to enjoy coastal cruising or extended weekend getaways with ample living space and easy handling. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or an enthusiastic beginner, this yacht offers a user-friendly design and solid construction, making it a great choice for those who want to explore the waters with confidence and style.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1991 Beneteau 38. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Beneteau cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$313.45/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 42,075
Total Payment$75,228.54

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1991 Beneteau 38. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Sail Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Beneteau cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$313.45/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 42,075
Total Payment$75,228.54

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Meet the Broker

Address

4520 Harbor Rd.
Shelburne, VT 05482
Other Information about Bruce Hill Yacht Sales

We are a Vermont based yacht brokerage located at Shelburne Shipyard established in 1973 and corporate members of YBAA. Now in our 46th year of business we represent a wide range of both sail and power boats. Let our knowledge and expertise assist you in buying or selling your sail or power boat.

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