1983 Bristol 38.8 Sold Boat in Boston, MA 02128 US
Built in 1983
38.8
1 Engine (Universal)
38.3 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Bristol 38.8 boats for sale in Massachusetts, United States
Other Bristol boats for sale in Massachusetts, United States
Freedom is a wonderful example of the iconic Ted Hood design that has travelled extensively from Maine to Florida in comfort and safety. It's 58' air draft and centerboard make it well-suited for traveling the ICW and the Bahamas.
She features New England-quality construction with a solid, hand-laid fiberglass hull. The Bristol 38.8 is a keel/centerboard design, and draws only 4'6" with the board up and 10'3" down for exceptional windward and downwind performance. She has proven to be a great boat for both rigorous offshore ocean passages and shoal waters.
Her double spreader rig, with both outboard and inboard shrouds provide good performance. The original owners worked with Ted Hood to add 800 pounds of internal ballast. The result of the 19,950 pound displacement makes for a stiffer, more capable and comfortable offshore performer.
Sail inventory including 2017 Rolly Tasker offshore grade Mainsail with double reef points, and Dutchman flaking system.
Rolly Tasker Offshore grade 125% Genoa, 2019.
North Sails gennaker Asymmetrical with sock 1.5oz (age unknown)
Harken roller furling
Forespar carbon fiber spinnaker pole
The standing rigging has been replaced (2016-2022), and much of the running rigging is like new.
The cabin features warm teak interior a teak and holly sole. The cushions are navy blue with a subtle pattern.
The foward owner's berth has a custom orthopedic-style mattress; Headroom is about 6' 8" in the salon, and about 6'4" in the forward cabin and head.
Teak dining table has 2 drop leaves and hidden silverware & liquor cabinet
Sleeps 6 or 7.
Large head with shower has private doors from both the owners' stateroom & saloon
Double berth forward (w/filler), has a large hanging locker, and enormous storage in lockers and drawers.
Double berths port and starboard in the saloon plus a generous quarter berth.
The saloon has tasteful navy blue upholstery in good condition. There is abundant storage throughout in a beautiful teak hanging locker, cabinets and drawers. There is also a large wet locker for foul weather gear.
Large navigation station w/ electronics and abundant storage.
Teak ceiling throughout on the sides of hull
Three opening ports
Abundant storage in lockers, cabinets and drawers.
Head includes a stainless sink, shower with new pump, large vanity mirror, white counter and abundant storage.
Brass trawler lamp over dining table. Condition is unknown. Not to be operated prior to sale closing. Conveyed as is.
Brass diesel-fired cabin heater. Condition unknown. Not to be operated prior to sale closing. Conveyed as is.
Large galley with double sink, propane range/oven and deep refrigerator/freezer and lots of storage
Excellent hand holds in cabins.
Galley:
Shipmate propane cooktop w/3 burners & oven. Frigoboat 12 volt water cooled refrigerator/freezer w/ replacement control.
Custom LED lights w/ dimmer over galley Dry storage locker
Electronics & electrical system:
Raymarine RL-70 radar at chart table w/ self-leveling mast mount for radome. Garmin 2006C GPS/plotter at chart table.
Raymarine under deck autopilot (rudder indicator included but not installed), Standard Horizon GX2400 VHF radio at chart table with cockpit remote mic.
Garmin Echomap 50 at helm with updated charts.
Raymarine Wind, depth & speed instruments in cockpit. New DST 810 transducer.
Xntrex Prosine 2000 watt inverter & charger.
Three (3) 4D AGM house batteries (630ah total). One (1) Group 27 AGM engine start battery
Two 100w flexible solar panels. Sold as is. Includes Blue Sky PMMT controller.
Two Radar reflectors
Shore Power 30 amp x 50' cord.
Harken roller furler (new in '05). Recent furler line.
Lewmar 48 ST primary winches Lewmar mainsheet winch, Adjustable main sheet traveler with new lines 2023. Merriman centerboard winch, Inboard genoa tracks. Outboard genoa/spinnaker sail tracks. Custom turning blocks.
Deck & hull Solid fiberglass hull, hand-laid construction, with internal ballast glassed into the hull cavity. Decks are cored with end-grain balsa. The rudder is skeg hung, and the prop is in an aperture inside the skeg. The rudder post is bronze,and there is a bronze shoe at the bottom of the rudder/skeg.
Full-length teak rub rail with s.s. striker, teak toe rail, aluminum mainsail traveler, fiberglass dorade boxes w/ teak tops, stainless dorade vents with SS guards. Spray hood for mainsail hatch
Forward cabin deck hatch Mid cabin deck hatch. Anchor well, single anchor roller. Hawse pipe for anchor rode.
45 lb CQR anchor w/ 5/16 x 275' Hi tensile G43 chain.
Centerboard winch, pennant.
Dodger w/stainless bows. Cockpit awning zips on dodger, & attaches to backstay.
Kato SS outboard engine hoist
Swim ladder w/ teak treads on transom with opening gate.
Edson steering pedestal with engine controls, 42" stainless destroyer wheel and Ritchie compass on binnacle. (compass light currently inoperable, and sold as is.
Edson folding cockpit table
Large sail locker, Lazarette locker, Shallow storage locker. Molded-in double propane locker w/ overboard drain and updated tanks.
Edson outboard bracket
Double life lines with gates
Jack lines
Safety tether
Midship cleats and chocks. Extra 800 lbs of lead ballast epoxied into keel sump (done in consultation w/ designer Ted Hood) Epoxy barrier coat on bottom
Custom closed-cell foam cockpit cushions
Universal 44 h.p diesel. High output alternator. Four new fuel injectors 2022.
Approximately 3600 hrs on diesel. New hour meter 6/13
Motor mounts replaced 2007
Shaft log and cutlass bearing 2023
Engine room blower
Lead lining insulation on engine room doors
Two electric bilge pumps, manual bilge pump
Shower sump pump (new)
36 gallon aluminum fuel tank replaced 2007
3 blade bronze Variprop
Miscellaneous
Lewmar V2 electric windlass with 44LB CQR anchor and 275' of 5/16 Hi tensile G43 chain (2017)
Life jackets (4 adult)
Fenders
Dock lines
MOB pole
Lifesling
Bosun's chair (Harken)
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
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2/10/26 | Initial price | $49,900 |
1983 Bristol 38.8 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1983 Bristol 38.8
Customers often praise the 1983 Bristol 38
8 for its exceptional build quality and classic design. Many owners appreciate the sturdy construction, which provides confidence during various sailing conditions. The boat's spacious interior layout is frequently highlighted, featuring generous headroom and comfortable accommodations that make extended cruising a pleasure. Sailors love the performance capabilities of the Bristol 38.8, noting its well-balanced rig and responsive handling, which allows for enjoyable sailing experiences whether in light winds or stronger gusts. The vessel's stability and ease of sailing are common points of appreciation, making it ideal for both seasoned sailors and those newer to the sport. Additionally, customers often comment on the great attention to detail in the craftsmanship, from the elegant woodwork to the practical galley and navigation space. The overall aesthetic appeal, combined with the practicality of the design, makes the Bristol 38.8 a sought-after choice among cruising enthusiasts. Overall, testimonials reflect a deep satisfaction with the Bristol 38.8 as a reliable and stylish vessel, perfect for both adventures on the water and comfortable living afloat.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Bristol 38.8, launched in 1983, is a well-regarded cruising yacht known for its blend of performance and comfort. Here are some pros and cons to consider if you're thinking about this classic vessel:
Pros
Seaworthy Design: The Bristol 38.8 is known for its solid construction and robust design, making it capable of handling various sea conditions with confidence.
Comfortable Interior: The layout features spacious accommodations, allowing for comfortable living quarters. The galley is functional, and the saloon offers ample seating and storage.
Performance: With its fin keel and balanced rudder, the 38.8 offers good sailing performance, enabling sailors to tackle both cruising and racing.
Quality Craftsmanship: Bristol Yachts are known for their high-quality construction and attention to detail. The woodwork and fitment inside the boat are often of a high standard.
Good resale value: The Bristol brand has a solid reputation in the market, which helps maintain resale values compared to other manufacturers’ models of similar age and size.
Versatile Use: Ideal for long-distance cruising, weekend getaways, or as a live-aboard, making it versatile for different sailing lifestyles.
Cons
Age-Related Maintenance: Being a vessel from 1983, any Bristol 38.8 will require ongoing maintenance, particularly with systems and materials that can degrade over time.
Weight: While its weight contributes to stability and durability, it also means that the boat may not be as fast as lighter competitors in its class.
Headroom: Some sailors find the headroom in certain areas to be less than ideal, which might be a consideration for taller individuals.
Limited Modern Amenities: Depending on the specific model and upgrades, some may find the onboard amenities and technology lacking when compared to more contemporary yachts.
Logistics of Ownership: Older boats can come with challenges in terms of parts availability and modern upgrades, which may necessitate custom solutions.
Made For
The 1983 Bristol 38.8 is ideally suited for sailing enthusiasts who value a blend of performance and comfort in their cruising experience. This boat appeals to a range of sailors, from seasoned mariners looking for a robust vessel capable of handling various sea conditions, to families and couples seeking a comfortable and spacious living space for extended voyages. For the adventurous spirit, the Bristol 38.8 offers excellent sailing performance with its well-balanced hull and responsive sailing characteristics, making it a great choice for offshore and coastal sailing alike. Its strong build and reliable design provide peace of mind for those who enjoy exploring new horizons. On the other hand, the spacious interior layout—including a well-appointed galley, comfortable salon, and ample sleeping quarters—caters to those who prioritize comfort and convenience while aboard. Whether you're planning long passages or weekend getaways, this vessel ensures a welcoming and practical cruising environment. In summary, the 1983 Bristol 38.8 is perfect for sailors who appreciate quality craftsmanship, solid performance, and comfortable living spaces, making it a fantastic option for both sailing adventures and leisurely coastal journeys.
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Boat Location
Contact Bluenose Yacht Sales & Quality Brokerage - Boston about 1983 Bristol 38.8
Constitution Marina, 28 Constitution Rd, Boston, MA, 02129
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