1991 Beneteau 38 Boat in Charlotte, VT 05445 US

$49,500

Used
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 Oceanis 38 represents an evolutionary approach to yacht design, focusing on meeting the owner's needs with versatility and comfort. This model offers three distinct interior layout options—day sailor, weekender, or cruiser—catering to a range of cruising preferences. Despite light and variable winds during testing in Tampa Bay, the Oceanis 38 demonstrated commendable sailing performance, highlighting its adaptability in diverse conditions.

Exterior Design and Deck Layout

Measuring a beam of 13 feet 1 inch, the Oceanis 38 features a spacious cockpit equipped with dual helms, enhancing maneuverability and control. The fold-down stern boarding platform extends the cockpit area to the water's edge, facilitating easy access. The wide cockpit includes long bench seats and a central table that comfortably seats six, with integrated handrails and storage. Dual helm stations provide seating both outboard and aft, with ample space for electronics. Safety features include pelican hooks on triple stainless lifelines securing the transom and bench seats that can be raised to clear passage. The teak decking and steps ensure secure footing, while the arch is fitted with multiple handrails to aid movement forward. The bow area is well-appointed with two anchor rollers, a large road locker, and a deck-mounted windlass that doubles as a snubbing point for dock lines. Additional conveniences include a hot and cold freshwater shower wand, a propane locker, and a large storage compartment accessible via the cockpit hatch.

Interior Living Spaces

Below deck, the Oceanis 38 impresses with an open interior layout enhanced by numerous deadlights, cabin side windows, and hatches that flood the space with natural light and ventilation. The galley, located along the starboard side, is designed to comfortably accommodate two people working simultaneously. It features a deep stainless steel sink with ample counter space, a refrigerator beneath, and storage options including cabinets and drawers. A centrally positioned gimbaled two-burner propane stove with oven is complemented by additional counter space and storage for utensils and cookware. The salon includes a versatile U-shaped dinette formed by removable cube seats and a table, which can be stowed when not in use to maximize space. Adjacent to the dinette are the entertainment system, main electrical panel, and optional television, along with storage cabinets and a chart table with a soft-closing lid.

Private Accommodations and Heads

The Oceanis 38 offers comfortable private quarters with thoughtful design elements to enhance livability. The forward cabin houses a queen-sized berth illuminated by rectangular deadlights, with a deep drawer beneath for clothing storage. Instead of traditional hanging lockers, the design incorporates luggage hooks to hang suitcases and garment bags, preserving the open feel. The starboard head, located aft of the galley, includes storage, a retractable shower head at the sink, shower curtains, and ample light and ventilation through windows and port lights. A dedicated shower compartment features a seat, cubbies for essentials, and an opening port light. The aft cabin on the port side boasts a large athwartships bed extending beyond the centerline, with sufficient sitting and standing headroom. Two port lights provide natural light and cross ventilation, and luggage hooks are also present. This cabin also houses the ship's batteries, switches, and offers access to steering gear in the lazarette.

Power and Performance

Powered by an inboard diesel engine accessible through multiple points—including the shower, aft cabin, and beneath the companionway stairs—the Oceanis 38 offers excellent maintenance access to critical components such as the fuel filter, belts, engine-mounted seawater pump, C-strainer, and the 115-volt pump for dual air conditioning units. The twin rudders contribute to a responsive helm, particularly noticeable under power when maneuvering in reverse, steering precisely in the direction of the wheel input. Sail handling is simplified with sheet stoppers on the cabin top for all key lines, including the optional furling mainsail whose mainsheet is trimmed from the overhead arch. The standard roller furling headsail is easily managed from the cockpit, and the available self-tacking jib further facilitates single-handed sailing. Despite light wind conditions during testing, the Oceanis 38 sailed well in as little as five knots of wind, demonstrating its capability and ease of handling.

Conclusion

The Beneteau Oceanis 38 is a thoughtfully designed yacht that balances spaciousness, comfort, and ease of handling. Its versatile interior layouts, generous natural light, and practical features below deck complement a well-appointed exterior and deck plan. The twin rudder configuration and accessible engine compartment enhance performance and maintenance convenience. Overall, the Oceanis 38 presents a compelling option for sailors seeking a modern cruiser that adapts well to various cruising styles and conditions.

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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 42,075
Total Payment$75,228.54
Monthly payment
$313.45/mo

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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 42,075
Total Payment$75,228.54
Monthly payment
$313.45/mo

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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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