• Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat on stands, surrounded by palm trees and vehicles. - 1The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat on stands, surrounded by palm trees and vehicles. - 1
  • Slide: The Image of Sailboat stern with "Mariner" and "Key West FL" text, Irwin 38, 1987 model. - 2The Image of Sailboat stern with "Mariner" and "Key West FL" text, Irwin 38, 1987 model. - 2
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat on stands, ready for maintenance in a sunny boatyard. - 3The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat on stands, ready for maintenance in a sunny boatyard. - 3
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat in dry dock, covered with protective plastic wrap. - 4The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat in dry dock, covered with protective plastic wrap. - 4
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat wrapped in protective covering, stored on land. - 5The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat wrapped in protective covering, stored on land. - 5
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat hull with marine growth, supported on blocks. - 6The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat hull with marine growth, supported on blocks. - 6
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat hull on stands, showing weathered green surface and marine growth. - 7The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat hull on stands, showing weathered green surface and marine growth. - 7
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat deck under protective cover, showing hatches and rigging. - 8The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat deck under protective cover, showing hatches and rigging. - 8
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat deck under protective cover, featuring mast and rigging. - 9The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat deck under protective cover, featuring mast and rigging. - 9
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat deck with ropes and covered structure. - 10The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat deck with ropes and covered structure. - 10
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat under protective cover, showing deck and hatches. - 11The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat under protective cover, showing deck and hatches. - 11
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cockpit under protective cover, showcasing steering wheel and deck. - 12The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cockpit under protective cover, showcasing steering wheel and deck. - 12
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cockpit under protective cover, featuring steering wheel and seating. - 13The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cockpit under protective cover, featuring steering wheel and seating. - 13
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with B&G navigation system and compass. - 14The Image of Cockpit of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with B&G navigation system and compass. - 14
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cockpit with blue canopy and steering wheel. - 15The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cockpit with blue canopy and steering wheel. - 15
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with wooden finish, white seating, and navigation equipment. - 16The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with wooden finish, white seating, and navigation equipment. - 16
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with wooden finish, white seating, and compact kitchen area. - 17The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with wooden finish, white seating, and compact kitchen area. - 17
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and compact kitchen area. - 18The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and compact kitchen area. - 18
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and cozy sleeping area. - 19The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and cozy sleeping area. - 19
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and white seating. - 20The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and white seating. - 20
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and navigation maps. - 21The Image of Interior of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and navigation maps. - 21
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht kitchen with sink, stove, and storage cabinets. - 22The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht kitchen with sink, stove, and storage cabinets. - 22
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat galley with stove, storage, and wooden flooring. - 23The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat galley with stove, storage, and wooden flooring. - 23
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat kitchen with stove and wooden cabinetry. - 24The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat kitchen with stove and wooden cabinetry. - 24
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht kitchen with stainless steel stove and wooden cabinetry. - 25The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht kitchen with stainless steel stove and wooden cabinetry. - 25
  • Slide: The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, featuring various switches and meters. - 26The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, featuring various switches and meters. - 26
  • Slide: The Image of Electrical wiring and batteries inside a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat. - 27The Image of Electrical wiring and batteries inside a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat. - 27
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showcasing mechanical components and wiring. - 28The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showcasing mechanical components and wiring. - 28
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showing mechanical components and wiring. - 29The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showing mechanical components and wiring. - 29
  • Slide: The Image of Engine room of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with ventilation system and machinery. - 30The Image of Engine room of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with ventilation system and machinery. - 30
  • Slide: The Image of Engine room of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showcasing mechanical components and wiring. - 31The Image of Engine room of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showcasing mechanical components and wiring. - 31
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showing hoses and mechanical components. - 32The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, showing hoses and mechanical components. - 32
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, featuring various hoses and mechanical components. - 33The Image of Engine compartment of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat, featuring various hoses and mechanical components. - 33
  • Slide: The Image of Interior view of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat showing plumbing and wiring components. - 34The Image of Interior view of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat showing plumbing and wiring components. - 34
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with polished wood finish and cozy cabin. - 35The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with polished wood finish and cozy cabin. - 35
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cabin interior with blue cushions and wooden accents. - 36The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat cabin interior with blue cushions and wooden accents. - 36
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht bathroom with sink, toilet, and wooden accents. - 37The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht bathroom with sink, toilet, and wooden accents. - 37
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with wooden cabinetry and window. - 38The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with wooden cabinetry and window. - 38
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and nautical equipment. - 39The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and nautical equipment. - 39
  • Slide: The Image of Old microwave in a 1987 Irwin 38 boat kitchen area. - 40The Image of Old microwave in a 1987 Irwin 38 boat kitchen area. - 40
  • Slide: The Image of Interior view of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and compact design. - 41The Image of Interior view of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden finishes and compact design. - 41
  • Slide: The Image of Interior cabin of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with mattress and wooden cabinetry. - 42The Image of Interior cabin of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with mattress and wooden cabinetry. - 42
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and small windows. - 43The Image of Interior of a 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and small windows. - 43
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and mirror. - 44The Image of Interior of 1987 Irwin 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and mirror. - 44
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht bathroom with toilet, sink, mirror, and storage. - 45The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht bathroom with toilet, sink, mirror, and storage. - 45
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with bed and compact bathroom. - 46The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior with bed and compact bathroom. - 46
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior showing plumbing and storage compartment. - 47The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 yacht interior showing plumbing and storage compartment. - 47
  • Slide: The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 boat interior showing mechanical components and steering system. - 48The Image of 1987 Irwin 38 boat interior showing mechanical components and steering system. - 48
  • Slide: The Image of Wind turbine on an Irwin 38 sailboat, 1987 model, near a tree-lined road. - 49The Image of Wind turbine on an Irwin 38 sailboat, 1987 model, near a tree-lined road. - 49
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1987 Irwin 38

$72,500

Used

Boat in Tiverton, RI 02878 US

builtBuilt in 1987
Year the boat was built
model

38

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Yanmar)

Engine type and count
length

38.1 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

Step aboard this 1987 Irwin 38 Center Cockpit, a well-loved cruiser known for its comfortable layout, solid construction, and dependable sailing performance. Designed with the cruising sailor in mind, the Irwin 38 offers generous interior volume, a practical deck plan, and the reliable characteristics that have made Irwin Yachts a favorite among coastal and offshore cruisers alike. Whether you're seeking a capable liveaboard, a weekend family cruiser, or a vessel ready for your next adventure, this Irwin 38 delivers a balanced blend of comfort, functionality, and classic sailing appeal.

The boat has been out of the water since October 2023. Before that, the boat was lived aboard by its owner for 6 years and during that time, was steadily upgraded and maintained. When surveyed in 2022, moisture readings throughout the hull and deck were normal, and no significant voids or delamination were detected. The cosmetic wear is consistent with the age of the boat, limited to minor nicks and crazing on striping but overall, the boat remains in excellent shape. The bottom is copper coated and sanded to 400. The topsides have been wet sanded to 4000 to get all oxidation off.

Windlass was rebuilt in 2018 and the bow and starboard side deck were rebuilt after faulty installation by the previous owner. The engine is in excellent condition with approximately 3000 hours (189 on new meter) and has had many major components replaced including the lift pump and injectors as well as new mounts (2018) and new shift cables (2021). The shaft and engine have been perfectly aligned. The lower rudder bearing has been replaced with a PYI seal as well.

The boat comes with a suite of B&G electronics including autopilot with a hydraulic ram, very rare to find on this model due to the tightness of the space near the steering quadrant. Equipped with a Air Breeze wind generator, MasterVolt battery charger, and a 3000w invertor. The Isotherm refrigerator is new (2022) and the boat is equipped with Mermaid 16,000 BTU AC/Heat installed in 2021, compressor seems to have a small leak but serviceable. Both heads have been replaced (aft cabin in 2017 and forward cabin in 2021).

Standing and running rigging were refit in 2018 including new wire standing rigging, new running rigging, mast wiring, spreader lights and leather boots. Awl-Grip refinishing on the mast and boom was also completed at that time. Two sails included in serviceable condition, Quantam mainsail, luff sleeved with lazy jacks, and a Doyle 115% genoa. Canvas is in great condition.

Overall, Mariner needs a good scrub, some deck paint, and small things like seals that don't like to sit for too long, and then it's ready for the next journey. Survey is available for interested buyers.

Nominal Length
38.08ft
Length Overall
38.08ft
Beam
12.17ft
Max Draft
4.5ft
Displacement
20000lb
Fresh Water Tanks
140gal
Fuel Tanks
62gal
Holding Tanks
18gal
Windlass
electric-windlass
Electrical Circuit
12v
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
displacement
Engine 1
Engine Make
Yanmar
Engine Model
4JH3-E
Fuel Type
diesel
Disclaimer

Aft Head (Master)

  • MasterFlush 8100 freshwater toilet (2017)

  • New plumbing, piping & hose clamps (2017)

Forward Head

  • Fully renewed in 2021:

    • LifeProof tile

    • New Jabsco hand-pump toilet

    • Refinished teak

Galley

  • Isotherm refrigerator system (2022) with air-cooled compressor & cold plate

Mechanical / Propulsion

  • New engine mounts (2018)

  • New shift cables (2021)

  • New bronze shaft seal (2021)

  • New stainless steel prop shaft (2018)

  • Cutlass bearing replaced (2018)

  • Strut straightened & engine re-aligned (2018)

  • MAX-Prop feathering propeller (in serviceable condition; installation date not stated but newer)

Electrical / Power Generation

  • Two 135W solar panels

  • Air Breeze wind generator (~400W combined with solar)

  • Victron solar controller

  • 3000W inverter

  • MasterVolt battery charger

HVAC / Comfort

  • Mermaid M16 16,000 BTU A/C & Heat (2021)

Plumbing / Water

  • Shurflo Aqua King II water pump (2021)

  • Recent hot water heater installation (Whale 110V unit; date not specified but functioning well)

Rigging / Mast / Sails (extensive 2018 refit)

  • New standing rigging (2018)

  • New running rigging (2018)

  • Awl-Grip paint on mast & boom (2018)

  • New mast wiring (2018)

  • New LED masthead anchor light (2018)

  • Cabrera spreader lights (2018)

  • Leather spreader boots (2018)

Electronics / Instruments

  • B&G Triton wind/speed/depth package (2018)

  • Garmin 7810 handheld GPS

  • Samsung 30" TV

Ground Tackle

  • Maxwell windlass rebuilt and overhauled (2018)

Hull & Deck

  • FRP fiberglass hull with full displacement, fin keel & spade rudder

  • Center cockpit layout

  • Built-in fiberglass toe rail

  • Lifelines with stainless stanchions

  • Lewmar deck hatches (5 total)

  • Stainless steel portlights (4 total)

  • Permanently sealed tinted Lexan hull windows

  • Teak handrails

  • Cockpit scuppers & deck drains

  • Bow and stern pulpits

  • Foredeck anchor locker

Interior / Layout

  • Large main salon with opposing settees

  • Teak cabinetry and storage sliders

  • Navigation station with AC/DC panel

  • Aft stateroom with walk-around queen berth

  • Forward V-berth

  • Two private heads with shower capability

Galley

  • Force 10 three-burner propane stove/oven

  • Double sink

  • Storage lockers & drawers

Plumbing & Water

  • 140 gallons freshwater capacity

  • Two 9-gallon holding tanks

  • Hot/cold pressure water system

Propulsion

  • Yanmar 4JH3-E diesel engine

  • Kanzaki KM3P-4 transmission

  • Racor 500FG fuel/water separator

  • Aluminum fuel tanks (62 gallons total)

Electrical

  • 12V DC system

  • 120V AC system

  • Battery banks (multiple batteries)

  • AC/DC distribution panels

  • GFCI outlets

  • Shore power inlets (two 30A plugs)

HVAC / Ventilation

  • Fans & hatches

  • Existing ducting for A/C system

Navigation & Electronics

  • ICOM IC-M424G VHF

  • Ritchie pedestal compass

  • Stereo system with speakers

  • Deck and cabin lighting

Rigging & Sailing Gear

  • Aluminum mast & boom

  • Single spreader rig

  • Harken roller furling system

  • Quantum mainsail with lazy jacks

  • Doyle 115% genoa

  • Barlow winches (mast & cockpit)

  • Mainsheet traveler and blocks

Ground Tackle

  • CQR 35kg anchor with chain & rode

  • Fortress Guardian G-23 anchor

  • Anchor platform with dual rollers


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
12/18/25Initial price$72,500

1987 Irwin 38 Video Tours

Overview from around the web 1987 Irwin 38

Customers praise the 1987 Irwin 38 for its spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles

Many highlight its solid construction and stable sailing performance, appreciating the boat’s ability to handle various sea conditions with confidence. The Irwin 38’s classic design combined with practical features appeals to those seeking both style and functionality. Overall, owners value its roomy cockpit, ample storage, and ease of handling, making it a popular choice among cruising enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1987 Irwin 38 is a classic cruiser known for its spacious interior and solid construction. Here are some of the pros and cons often associated with this model:

Pros

Spacious Interior: The Irwin 38 offers generous cabin space with comfortable sleeping accommodations, making it ideal for extended cruising.

Sturdy Construction: Built with a solid fiberglass hull, the boat is known for its durability and ability to handle offshore conditions.

Good Storage: Numerous lockers and compartments provide ample storage for gear and provisions.

Comfortable Deck Layout: The cockpit is designed for ease of handling and socializing, with good seating and protection.

Decent Performance: While not a racer, the Irwin 38 offers respectable sailing performance suitable for cruising.

Cons

Heavier Build: The robust construction adds weight, which can reduce speed and agility compared to lighter cruisers.

Outdated Design Features: Being a 1987 model, some design elements and systems may feel dated and could require updates to meet modern standards.

Maintenance Needs: Older boats like the Irwin 38 often need ongoing maintenance and occasional upgrades to keep systems in good working order.

Limited Headroom in Some Areas: While generally spacious, certain parts of the cabin may have restricted headroom for taller individuals.

Sailing Rig Complexity: The rigging setup can be more complex, potentially requiring a knowledgeable crew to handle efficiently.

Made For

The 1987 Irwin 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a spacious and comfortable cruiser with solid performance. Its design caters to those who value ample living space below deck for extended voyages or family cruising, while still offering reliable handling and stability on the water. Whether you're planning coastal cruising or longer passages, the Irwin 38 provides a balanced blend of comfort, durability, and ease of handling, making it well-suited for both experienced sailors and those looking to enjoy leisurely time afloat.

Contact TPG Yacht Sales

1 East Ferry Wharf Unit 1, Jamestown, RI, 02835

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Jamestown, RI 02835

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