2006 Hunter 38
$117,000
Boat in Seattle, WA 98109 US
Built in 2006
38
--
38 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Set Sail on *Sound Affect* - Your 2006 Hunter 38 Awaits in the Pacific Northwest
Imagine gliding through the emerald channels of the Salish Sea, with the scent of Douglas fir and salt air filling your cockpit. *Sound Affect* - a clever nod to both her audio-inspired name and her home waters of Puget Sound - is a turn-key cruiser ready to transform your weekends and summer vacations into unforgettable adventures. This 2006 Hunter 38 features the sought-after two-cabin, one-head layout, offering an ideal balance of comfort for a couple, small family, or frequent entertaining. Whether you're aiming for a lazy afternoon in Roche Harbor, a swift crossing to Victoria, or a week-long exploration of the San Juan and Gulf Islands, this boat is built to make every moment on the water effortless and enjoyable.
Designed with the Pacific Northwest's shifty winds and tight harbors in mind, *Sound Affect* boasts two major upgrades that set her apart. A bow thruster, added in 2022, gives you the confidence to dock in current-swept marinas like Friday Harbor or Gig Harbor without breaking a sweat. Combine that with a new start battery (2021), and you have reliable, hassle-free engine starting even on those crisp spring mornings. The in-mast furling main and furling genoa mean sail handling is a solo sailor's dream - no wrestling with a heavy mainsail in a sudden Squamish gust. Simply point, pull, and trim; you'll spend more time watching for orcas and less time grinding winches.
Step below, and you'll find the warmth and practicality that make the Hunter 38 a favorite among PNW cruisers. The two-cabin layout offers a spacious owner's cabin forward and a generous guest cabin aft, while the single head is efficiently designed with a separate shower stall - a true luxury after a rainy day on deck. The main salon is bright and airy, thanks to large hull ports, and the U-shaped galley provides ample counter space for preparing hot chowder or brewing that essential morning coffee. With good headroom throughout and smart storage for foul weather gear, provisions, and cruising guides, *Sound Affect* feels like a home that happens to float.
Performance-wise, the Hunter 38 delivers a surprisingly lively ride without demanding athleticism from her crew. The B&R rig provides stability and a forgiving sail plan, while the deep, shoal-draft wing keel (standard on this model) gives you access to gunkholes and coves that deeper-draft boats must pass by. Her fin keel and spade rudder offer responsive steering, yet she tracks well under power - ideal when the current kicks up in Deception Pass. With a reliable diesel that purrs at cruising RPMs, you'll cover ground efficiently whether you're heading north to Desolation Sound or south for the Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend.
Don't let this opportunity sail away. *Sound Affect* is a rare find in the PNW market: a well-maintained, updated Hunter 38 with the practical two-cabin layout and a bow thruster that takes the anxiety out of close-quarters maneuvering. She's ready for sea trials, spring commissioning, and a summer full of memories. Contact us today to schedule a viewing - because the best stories on the water always start with "Remember when we had *Sound Affect*..."
Below deck, the 2006 Hunter 38 *Sound Affect* offers the highly desirable 2-cabin, 1-head layout—a smart design choice that prioritizes open, livable space over cramped, unnecessary berths. The main salon feels remarkably spacious thanks to the absence of a second head, allowing for a large L-shaped settee to port, a straight settee to starboard, and a substantial drop-leaf table that comfortably seats four for meals or evening navigation. Natural light floods the interior through oversized overhead hatches and hull-side ports, creating an airy, inviting atmosphere that stands out in this class. The functional L-shaped galley is conveniently located near the companionway, featuring good counter space, deep storage, and easy access to the cockpit for passing meals or drinks topside.
The forward owner’s cabin is a true retreat, centered around an island berth with excellent headroom and dedicated storage lockers on both sides. The private entrance to the single head (also accessible from the salon) makes this layout work beautifully for a couple or small family. The starboard aft cabin offers a generous double berth, perfect for guests or children, with its own hanging locker and shelf storage. The head itself is surprisingly roomy for a 38-footer, featuring a separate shower stall with a bi-fold door—a practical upgrade for Pacific Northwest cruising, where drying wet foul weather gear is part of daily life.
Whether you're settling in for a weekend in the San Juans or a longer voyage north, the accommodations on *Sound Affect* deliver comfort without wasted space. From the airy salon and well-appointed galley to the private owner’s suite and surprisingly spacious head, every inch of this two-cabin layout has been thoughtfully designed for real-world cruising. It’s the kind of interior that makes you want to linger over morning coffee, host friends for dinner, and stretch out after a day on the water—proof that clever design always beats extra berths.
The rigging aboard *Sound Affect* is designed from the keel up for ease of shorthanded sailing, making her an ideal partner for Pacific Northwest waters. The masthead sloop rig features a deck-stepped mast with in-mast furling for the mainsail—a game-changer when afternoon squalls roll through the Strait of Georgia or when you need to reef without leaving the cockpit. The furling genoa complements this setup perfectly, allowing you to dial in sail area in seconds by simply releasing one line and pulling another. All sail control lines lead aft to the cockpit, including halyards, reefing lines, and the genoa furling line, which are led to self-tailing winches mounted within easy reach of the helm. This means you can tack, reef, or furl entirely from the protected comfort of the cockpit—no trips to the foredeck required, even in lumpy seas.
Standing rigging appears to be in good serviceable condition, with stainless steel wire, swaged terminals, and chainplates that show regular attention. The in-mast furling system operates smoothly (serviceable in 2022), and the furling genoa deploys and retrieves with minimal friction. The boom is well-mounted with a rigid vang for mainsail shape control, and the traveler is positioned just forward of the companionway for fine-tuned sail trim. For anchoring and docking, the bow thruster (added 2022) is technically part of the boat's systems, but its integration with the rig and deck layout means you can transition seamlessly from sailing mode to maneuvering in tight marinas without drama. Whether you're beating into a summer northerly or ghosting along in a light easterly, the rigging on *Sound Affect* delivers confidence, simplicity, and the freedom to sail with a small crew—or even singlehanded.
- Wheeled Helm
- Anodized B&R Double Spreader Fractional Rig from Selden Spars
- Boom Vang
- Furling Mainsail in Mast
- 110% Furling Jib w/Acrylic Suncover
- Jib Furling System
- Adjustable Mainsheet Traveler on Arch
- Inboard Jib Tracks w/Adjustable Cars
- Internal Halyards Led to Cockpit
- (2) Sets Line Stoppers and Organizers
- (2) Two-Speed Self-Tailing Rigging Winches
- (2) Two-Speed Self-Tailing Jib Sheet Winches
- (2) Winch Handles
- Windex Wind Vane
The electrical system on this Hunter 38 is well-configured for both dockside comfort and extended time away from the dock. Two AGM house batteries paired with a 60-amp alternator and a Magnum 1000W inverter/charger (new in 2011) provide reliable power for lights, stereo, and small AC appliances without running a generator. The AC/DC switch panel with dual 12-volt battery switches gives you full control over power distribution, while the dockside power cord allows easy connection to shore power. An electric automatic bilge pump, a shower sump pump, and a Webasto AT 5500 forced air furnace (also new in 2011) add safety and year-round cruising capability. Tank gauges for fuel (35 gallons), water (75 gallons), and waste (34 gallons with macerator) keep you informed, and the 5-gallon electric water heater with hot/cold pressure system ensures hot showers at anchor.
For navigation and situational awareness, this Hunter 38 is equipped with a solid suite of Raymarine electronics. The Raymarine C90W chartplotter (installed in 2011) provides a bright, color display for GPS chart plotting, while the ST60 digital depthsounder with alarm and ST60 digital knotmeter with log deliver real-time speed and depth data. An Icom AIS receiver integrates with the chartplotter to show nearby vessel traffic, a significant safety upgrade for coastal cruising. The VHF radio with stainless steel antenna handles communication, and the navigation light package meets regulatory requirements. Together, these systems offer reliable performance for a boat of this vintage—practical, easy to use, and well-suited for a 38-foot cruiser.
- AC/ DC Switch Panel
- 2 AGM house batteries
- Magnum 1000 W inverter/charger (new 2011)
- AM/FM Stereo/CD Player with (2) Speakers
- 60 Amp Alternator
- Cabin Reading Lights
- Dockside Power w/Cord
- Dual 12-Volt Battery Switches
- Electric Automatic Bilge Pump
- 34 Gallon (129 L) Waste Holding Tank w/Macerator
- 75 Gallon (284 L) Water Capacity
- 35 Gallon (132 L) Fuel Capacity
- 5 Gallon (19 L) Electric Water Heater
- Hot/Cold Pressure Water System
- Navigation Light Package
- Raymarine C90W Chartplotter (new 2011)
- Icom AIS receiver
- Raymarine ST60 Digital Depthsounder w/Alarm
- Raymarine ST60 Digital Knotmeter w/Log Shower Sump Pump
- Tank Gauges Fuel, Water & Waste
- VHF Radio w/Stainless Antenna
- Webasto AT 5500 forced air furnace (new 2011)
- Aluminum Boom Vang
- Engine Upgrade to 40hp (29.6kw)
- Epoxy Barrier Coat
- 15" Flat Panel TV w/Bose 3.2.1 Entertainment System
- High Bilgewater Alarm and Pump
- Innerspring Mattress
- Inverter
- Quiet Flush Head
- Raymarine Autopilots
- Raymarine ST60 WindMachine
- Removable Dinette Table Leaf
- ST60 Knot/Depth Upgrade
- Three-Blade Prop
- Down-the-Hatch Wind Funnel
- West Marine Cabin Heater - electric
- 3 White. square flotation cushions
- 4 Life Jackets
- US Flag - on wooden pole
- West Marine Rain Jacket & Pants. Navy & White - Large
- 8 Signal flares
- Window screens - assorted sizes
- Chrome Winch Handle
- Black Plastic Winch Handle
- Red Plastic - Floating Winch Handle
- Miscellaneous small boat hardware
- Brushed chrome clock on bulkhead in main cabin
- Brushed chrome barometer on bulkhead in main cabin
- chrome ships bell on bulkhead in main cabin
- set of 6 Hunter Dishes - in draining cupboard
- Navy bath towel
- Cream Bath Floor Mat
- set - ivory cotton sheets for Master Cabin bed
- 4 Pillows
- Set Red sheets - Queen size
- Dark Red Queen Size Duvet Cover
- Queen Size Mattress Cover
- Queen Size Feather Duvet
- Queen Size Mattress Sprinq Set - wood & rubber
- 2 Red throw pillows, square
- 2 Navy Throw Pillows
- 2 NavyThrow Pillows - rectanqular
- Air Hom
- Oranqe Plastic Safety Flares
- Navy sunbrella 2-piece winter storage cover, fulldeck & cockpit
- Dodger with Weisenqlass windows. navy covers
- Sunbrella Wheel Cover
- Sunbrella Hatch Door Cover
- 2 Sunbrella winch covers - large
- 2 Sunbrella winch covers - smallr
- 6 Bumpers. black with lines
- Folding Stepstool. 2 steps
- 8 Black 5/8-in mooring lines. assorted lengths. with snubbers
- Kettle barbecue
- telescopinq boat hook
- Lifesling Overboard Rescue System
- 50 ft Dock Electrical Power Cord.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 4/29/26 | Initial price | $117,000 |
2006 Hunter 38 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 2006 Hunter 38
Customers praise the 2006 Hunter 38 for its spacious and comfortable interior, perfect for long weekends or extended cruising
Many appreciate the well-designed layout, which includes a generous galley and cozy salon, allowing for both relaxation and entertaining. The ample storage throughout the boat is frequently highlighted, making it easy to stow away gear for extended trips. Performance-wise, sailors commend the Hunter 38 for its stable and manageable sailing characteristics. The easy-to-handle rigging and responsive helm make it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. Owners also note the boat's efficient use of space, with a smartly designed cockpit and easy access to sailing controls. In terms of build quality, customers often express satisfaction with the craftsmanship and materials used in the construction of the boat, resulting in durability and a reliable sailing experience. The Hunter 38's aesthetic appeal, both inside and out, is commonly noted, with an attractive design and comfortable outdoor areas for enjoying the sun and sea. Overall, the 2006 Hunter 38 is well-regarded for its balance of performance, comfort, and practicality, making it a popular choice among cruising enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Spacious Interior: The Hunter 38 offers a well-designed interior with ample living space, making it comfortable for extended cruising or weekend getaways. The open layout promotes a feeling of spaciousness.
Light and Ventilation: Large windows and hatches provide plenty of natural light and ventilation, enhancing the onboard experience. The thoughtful design allows for good airflow, keeping the interior fresh.
Easy Handling: The Hunter 38 is known for its manageable size and responsive sailing characteristics, making it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. Many find the sail plan easy to handle, featuring roller furling for convenience.
Ample Storage: With multiple storage compartments throughout, including in the galley and under the berths, it accommodates gear and provisions for longer trips without feeling cluttered.
Built for Comfort: The boat features a well-appointed galley with significant counter space, a comfortable saloon with seating for family and friends, and a cozy master cabin, making it an appealing choice for liveaboards or weekend sailors.
Stable and Sea-Worthy: The hull design provides good stability and performance in various conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.
Cons
Weight: While the heavier displacement provides stability, it can also lead to slower speeds compared to lighter sportier designs. Some sailors prefer a more agile performance in lighter winds.
Maintenance Costs: As with any boat, the 2006 Hunter 38 may require regular maintenance which can accumulate in cost over time, especially if extensive upgrades or repairs are needed.
Limited Performance for Racing: While great for cruising, those looking for a performance-oriented boat may find the Hunter 38 not as competitive in racing scenarios compared to dedicated racing sailboats.
Older Technology: As a 2006 model, certain features and technology may not be as modern or efficient as newer boats. Upgrading systems may be necessary for those looking for the latest in navigation and electrical efficiencies.
Draft Limitations: With a moderate draft, the Hunter 38 may not be suitable for very shallow waters or areas with low tide, potentially limiting certain cruising opportunities. #### Summary The 2006 Hunter 38 is an excellent choice for cruising sailors seeking comfort, stability, and ease of handling. However, prospective buyers should weigh the benefits against the limitations in performance, maintenance, and technology.
Made For
The 2006 Hunter 38 is designed for sailing enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and modern features. Ideal for both seasoned sailors and those new to the sport, this versatile cruiser caters to families, couples, and individuals who appreciate the freedom of the open water. With its spacious layout and innovative design, the Hunter 38 ensures a comfortable experience whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or an extended voyage. Its features make it suitable for those who value ease of handling, as well as those looking for a vessel that offers both entertainment and relaxation on the water. Boasting a great combination of stability and speed, the Hunter 38 offers the perfect platform for exploring coastal areas or enjoying long-distance sailing adventures. Its powerful rigging and responsive steering appeal to performance-oriented sailors, while its inviting interior and ample storage make it a practical choice for leisurely cruising. Whether you’re looking to entertain friends or find solace on the sea, the 2006 Hunter 38 is a fantastic option for anyone ready to embrace a life of adventure.
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Other Information about Signature Yachts
As an award-winning dealership and brokerage today, Signature Yachts continues and builds on an outstanding reputation begun with its founding in1989 as a yacht importer. In the decades since, adjusting sails to meet shifting winds, it has evolved into the premier Northwest seller of Beneteau sailing yachts and Fountaine Pajot catamarans and a leading broker of pre-owned sailing and power yachts.
Boat Location
Contact Signature Yachts about 2006 Hunter 38
2476 Westlake Avenue North, Suite 101, Seattle, WA, 98109
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