1976 Downeast 38 Cutter
$35,000
Boat in Alameda, CA 94501 US
38 Cutter
1 Engine (YANMAR)
38 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
This sturdy cruiser with all the upgrades has a reduction in price. Owners said they are motivated to move on. Now down to $35,000
This Downeaster 38 Cutter rig, with a self-tending jib boom and end boom sheeting, has huge potential as both a cruising home or live-aboard.
The current owners have invested in upgrading the most important equipment on the boat to include
- 2001 New Pineapple sails used only 5 times around the Bay
- 2001 New standing rigging by Hanson
- 2018 New B&G plotter and radar
- 2021 Yanmar full service
- 2023 New refrigeration and Hot Water
- 2024 Haulout with new bottom paint and survey
The money went to where it counts, the detailing and decorating is now for the buyer. Make it yours!
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.
Bowsprite with 35# CQR anchor with chain running through a windlass
Port and starboard, ss Stanchions with life lines and boarding gates
P & S navigation lights
P & S bronze alloy cleat
P&S Cowl vents
Cabin top teak handrails
P&S at base of mast SS safety leaning staples
P&S varnished teak boxes
Back deck, is spacious with 2 lifting storage hatches
3rd hatch contain propane with drainage
Cockpit with 2 drain scuppers
Yanmar engine start / gauge panel
Above deck electric panel with switches
SR Mariner knot meter
Coastal Nav Depth sounder
125V/30 Amp shore power inlet and cord
Manual bilge pump
Outboard mount
P&S bronze cleats
Steering Binacle with Danforth compass enclosed with bronze cover and SS wheel. SS rail with B&G Instrument pod attached
Forward cabin deck hatch with canvas cover
Cutter rig, with Aluminum mast, boom and spinnaker pole.
Mast has steps to the spreaders.
Standing rigging is new ss strand.
Roller furling jib by Harken -MK IV -1
The mainsail boom is controlled by end boom sheeting going to a turning block on deck to a self tailing winch and is cleated to a deck mounted clam cleat accessible to the helm station.
The Staysail, based on the center of the foredeck is mounted on the self tacking jib boom and is furled and covered on the boom when not in use
The genoa jib is furled on the Harken roller furler.
The Pineapple sails were made and installed in 2021 and used only 5 times and are as crisp as the day they were made.
Jib sheets lead back to the cockpit to p&s self tailing Lewmar winches
Through the companion way, steps and to port side is the galley. Aft is the large 4' x 3' x 1.5' refrigerator accessed by a split counter top insulated sections and activated by a thermostatice controlled cold plate by Isotherm.
Outboard to port and forward of the SS Force 10, 3 burner/1 over stove, is the large freezer unit with 2 coldplates with volume dimensions of 4' x 3.5' x 1.5'.
Separating the galley from the salon inboard of the freezer is the 2 deep ss sinks with storagwe and water control valves.
The stove and sinks are covered with cutting boards.
Salon to port is a "twin"-size settee behind outboard is 4 lower and 4 upper cabinets with louvered doors. Below seating are 2 drawers.
Forward is the main folding table mounted against the forward bulkhead. Also on the bulkhead mounted is a Ships Time clock and a Taylor Barometer as well as a brass inclinometer.
To starboard forward is a coal burning heater "Cole Stove" vented through cabin top. Small TV
To starboard is a settee, outboard of which is 4 louvered door cabinets. Above the cabinets are 2 cabinets separated by a book shelf.
Aft is a locker on top of which is small platform with VHF and mirror.
Aft again is the Quarter Berth with sliding pocket door.
Forward of the Salon to port is the Head with Raritan electric toilet with flush control.
18" round ss sign and faucet with storage beneath. Mirror and towel rack.
Forward of the head is the V-berth with the V filler. Upper and lower cabinets and storage beneath.
Overhead are 3 dome lights
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/1/26 | Initial price | $35,000 |
1976 Downeast 38 Cutter Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1976 Downeast 38 Cutter
Customers praise the 1976 Downeast 38 Cutter for its classic design, sturdy construction, and excellent sailing performance
Many appreciate its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior layout, making it ideal for both day sailing and extended cruising. Owners often highlight the boat's ability to handle various sea conditions with ease, thanks to its well-balanced cutter rig and solid hull. Additionally, the timeless aesthetic and quality craftsmanship of the Downeast 38 Cutter continue to attract enthusiasts who value traditional style combined with reliable functionality.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1976 Downeast 38 Cutter is a classic sailboat known for its traditional design and sturdy construction. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this model:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: Crafted with robust materials typical of the era, offering durability and longevity.
Classic Downeast Aesthetic: Features the timeless Downeast styling with a graceful sheer and cutter rig, appealing to traditional sailing enthusiasts.
Comfortable Interior: Offers a cozy and functional cabin layout suitable for extended cruising.
Good Seaworthiness: Designed to handle a variety of sea conditions, making it reliable for coastal and offshore sailing.
Cutter Rig Versatility: The cutter sail plan allows for flexible sail configurations, enhancing performance and ease of handling.
Cons
Older Design Features: Lacks some modern conveniences and innovations found in newer sailboats.
Maintenance Requirements: As a vessel from 1976, it may require more upkeep, including potential updates to systems and rigging.
Limited Speed: The traditional hull shape and cutter rig prioritize stability over speed, which may not appeal to those seeking faster performance.
Potential for Outdated Equipment: Original fittings and hardware might need replacement or upgrading to meet current safety and comfort standards.
Made For
The 1976 Downeast 38 Cutter is ideal for sailors and cruisers seeking a classic, sturdy, and versatile vessel. It’s perfect for those who appreciate traditional Downeast styling combined with reliable performance for coastal cruising, weekend getaways, or extended voyages. Whether you’re an experienced sailor looking for a dependable cutter-rigged sailboat or a couple wanting a comfortable and seaworthy cruiser, the Downeast 38 offers a blend of durability, spaciousness, and timeless design.
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Meet the Broker

Address
Boat Location
Contact Richard Boland Yachts about 1976 Downeast 38 Cutter
1070 Marina Village Parkway Suite #107, Alameda, CA, 94501
Contact Richard Boland Yachts
1070 Marina Village Parkway Suite #107, Alameda, CA, 94501
































