• Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat docked under clear blue sky. - 1The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat docked under clear blue sky. - 1
  • Slide: The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht, calm waters, clear blue sky. - 2The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht, calm waters, clear blue sky. - 2
  • Slide: The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht at sunset over calm waters. - 3The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht at sunset over calm waters. - 3
  • Slide: The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht with white sails on open water. - 4The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht with white sails on open water. - 4
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat cockpit with sails up, navigating on open water. - 5The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat cockpit with sails up, navigating on open water. - 5
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat on calm waters under cloudy sky. - 6The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat on calm waters under cloudy sky. - 6
  • Slide: The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht with a nautical flag, ocean view. - 7The Image of Sailing on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht with a nautical flag, ocean view. - 7
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat deck with clear skies and calm waters. - 8The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat deck with clear skies and calm waters. - 8
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat on calm water under a clear blue sky. - 9The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat on calm water under a clear blue sky. - 9
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat cockpit with steering wheel, wood accents, and open water view. - 10The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat cockpit with steering wheel, wood accents, and open water view. - 10
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht kitchen with wood cabinetry, dual sinks, and stove. - 11The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht kitchen with wood cabinetry, dual sinks, and stove. - 11
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and dual kitchen sink. - 12The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and dual kitchen sink. - 12
  • Slide: The Image of Navigation equipment on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat, featuring GPS and communication devices. - 13The Image of Navigation equipment on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat, featuring GPS and communication devices. - 13
  • Slide: The Image of Wooden interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 with Raymarine equipment and storage compartments. - 14The Image of Wooden interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 with Raymarine equipment and storage compartments. - 14
  • Slide: The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht, featuring gauges and switches. - 15The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht, featuring gauges and switches. - 15
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wood finish and blue seating. - 16The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wood finish and blue seating. - 16
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with blue seating and wooden finishes. - 17The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with blue seating and wooden finishes. - 17
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with blue seating and wooden finishes. - 18The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with blue seating and wooden finishes. - 18
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden finish, blue seating, and natural light. - 19The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden finish, blue seating, and natural light. - 19
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden finish and cozy cabin. - 20The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden finish and cozy cabin. - 20
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with blue cushioned seating and wooden cabinetry. - 21The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with blue cushioned seating and wooden cabinetry. - 21
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden furnishings and blue seating. - 22The Image of Interior of a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden furnishings and blue seating. - 22
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht cabin with blue bedding and wooden interior. - 23The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht cabin with blue bedding and wooden interior. - 23
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and storage bench. - 24The Image of Interior of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and storage bench. - 24
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden cabinetry, dining table, and dual sink. - 25The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden cabinetry, dining table, and dual sink. - 25
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat, featuring wood finishes and a compact kitchen. - 26The Image of Interior of a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat, featuring wood finishes and a compact kitchen. - 26
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 engine, detailed view, showcasing components and mechanical parts. - 27The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 engine, detailed view, showcasing components and mechanical parts. - 27
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower curtain. - 28The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower curtain. - 28
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht bathroom with sink, mirror, and wooden cabinets. - 29The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht bathroom with sink, mirror, and wooden cabinets. - 29
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden paneling and storage compartments. - 30The Image of Interior of a 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat with wooden paneling and storage compartments. - 30
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden paneling and elegant design. - 31The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden paneling and elegant design. - 31
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden cabinetry, dual sink, and compact kitchen area. - 32The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht interior with wooden cabinetry, dual sink, and compact kitchen area. - 32
  • Slide: The Image of Stainless steel stove in a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht kitchen. - 33The Image of Stainless steel stove in a 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht kitchen. - 33
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht kitchen with wooden cabinets and stainless steel stove. - 34The Image of 1986 Bristol 38.8 yacht kitchen with wooden cabinets and stainless steel stove. - 34
  • Slide: The Image of Interior view of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat showing rope storage compartment. - 35The Image of Interior view of 1986 Bristol 38.8 sailboat showing rope storage compartment. - 35
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1986 Bristol 38.8

$79,900

Used

Boat in Shelter Island, NY 11964 US

builtBuilt in 1986
Year the boat was built
model

38.8

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Nanni)

Engine type and count
length

38.3 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

The Bristol 38.8, a popular Ted Hood design, is highly regarded for its quality construction, elegant lines, and excellent sailing performance. Full Circle is a prime example of a well-maintained 38.8, benefiting from continuous professional care and numerous recent upgrades, including:

  • Nanni 50 HP engine (approx. 200 hours)
  • Upgraded exhaust system
  • Replaced water heater
  • New diesel tank pick-up
  • New interior cushions from S&S Fabrics Portsmouth
  • 3-burner Force 10 stove/oven
  • Replaced windlass motor
  • 2022 New dodger
  • 2022 Diesel forced-air heater

Equipped for both coastal cruising and long-distance adventures, she has everything you need to set sail with confidence. If heading south is in your plans, her 58' bridge clearance and shoal-draft centerboard keel make her an ideal choice for navigating the shallow waters of the ICW, Chesapeake, and Bahamas.

Full Circle stands out as an excellent example of a Bristol 38.8 - we invite you to see her for yourself!

Nominal Length
38.25ft
Length Overall
38.33ft
Length at Waterline
30.5ft
Length on Deck
38.33ft
Beam
12.08ft
Max Bridge Clearance
58ft
Max Draft
10.25ft
Drive Up Draft
4.5ft
Cabin Headroom
6.5ft
Displacement
19150lb
Ballast
9000lb
Fresh Water Tanks
100gal
Fuel Tanks
47gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
Nanni
Engine Model
N4.50
Total Power
50hp
Engine Hours
200
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
2020
Drive Type
direct
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
1/30/26Initial price$79,900

1986 Bristol 38.8 Video Tours

Overview from around the web 1986 Bristol 38.8

Customers consistently praise the 1986 Bristol 38

8 for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design. Owners highlight the boat’s solid construction, spacious interior, and comfortable layout, making it ideal for both cruising and extended voyages. Many appreciate the balanced sailing performance and ease of handling, even in challenging conditions. The quality of materials and attention to detail in the 38.8 model contribute to its reputation as a reliable and durable vessel that holds its value well over time. Overall, satisfaction centers on the blend of classic aesthetics with practical functionality, making the Bristol 38.8 a favored choice among sailing enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1986 Bristol 38.8 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and timeless design. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Sturdy Build Quality: The Bristol 38.8 is renowned for its robust fiberglass hull and quality craftsmanship, offering durability and a reassuring sense of safety at sea.

Classic Aesthetics: With its traditional lines and elegant styling, it appeals to sailors who appreciate a vintage look combined with functional design.

Comfortable Interior: The boat features a well-laid-out interior with ample headroom, practical galley, and comfortable sleeping accommodations suitable for extended cruising.

Good Sailing Performance: Despite its moderate size, the 38.8 performs well under sail, with balanced handling and respectable speed, making it enjoyable for day sailing or longer passages.

Solid Reputation: Bristol Yachts have a strong reputation for seaworthiness, and the 38.8 is no exception, providing confidence for offshore cruising.

Cons

Older Design: Being a design from the mid-1980s, some aspects such as interior layout and systems might feel dated compared to modern sailboats.

Maintenance Requirements: As with many older boats, upkeep can be more demanding, with potential for wear in areas like rigging, engine, and onboard systems.

Limited Modern Amenities: The 38.8 may lack some of the conveniences and technological advancements found in newer models, such as updated electronics or more efficient sail handling gear.

Heavier Displacement: Its relatively heavy displacement can mean slower acceleration and less responsiveness in light wind conditions compared to lighter, more contemporary designs.

Made For

The 1986 Bristol 38.8 is designed for sailors who appreciate a classic blend of performance and comfort. Ideal for cruising enthusiasts seeking a sturdy, well-crafted vessel, it appeals to those who value traditional styling combined with reliable handling. Whether you’re planning coastal adventures or extended offshore passages, the Bristol 38.8 offers a spacious interior and solid construction, making it perfect for sailors who want a dependable and elegant boat for both leisurely cruising and spirited sailing.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1986 Bristol 38.8. 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 Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Bristol 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
$906.84/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 79,900
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1986 Bristol 38.8. 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 Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Bristol 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
$906.84/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 79,900
OR
%

Contact Coecles Harbor Marina & Boatyard

PO Box 1948, Shelter Island, NY, 11964

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Address

PO Box 1948
Shelter Island, NY 11964

Boat Location

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Contact Coecles Harbor Marina & Boatyard about 1986 Bristol 38.8

PO Box 1948, Shelter Island, NY, 11964

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from Coecles Harbor Marina & Boatyard at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Contact Coecles Harbor Marina & Boatyard

PO Box 1948, Shelter Island, NY, 11964

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from Coecles Harbor Marina & Boatyard at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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