1956 Kettenburg K38 Sold Boat in Vallejo, CA 94590 US
K38
1 Engine (--)
38 feet
--
Wooden
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1956 Kettenburg K38 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $25,000 | $25,000 | $24,500 | $26,000 | $26,500 | $22,000 |
| Location | Vallejo | Richmond | San Diego | Richmond | San Diego | Marina Del Rey |
| Nominal Length | 38' | 26' | 33' | 33' | 38' | 26' |
| Beam | 8' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | - | Suzuki | Westerbeke | Yanmar | Universal | Honda |
| Total Engine Power | - | 60 hp | 33 hp | 27 hp | 25 hp | 10 hp |
| Days on Market | 311 | 40 | 80 | 70 | 64 | 27 |
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Other Kettenburg boats for sale in California, United States
ANY and ALL offers will be put in front of our seller! Submit your offer today!
Classic San Diego Built Kettenburg known as Aristocrats of sail
The K-38 is 38' overall but 25'10" at the waterline, 8' beam, 6'2" draft. Sail area 538 square feet. The exquisite beauty of the K38's lines, its ideal size, its incredible feel of balance and speed, its sleek, narrow hull, its meticulous craftsmanship in wood and its silent, easy motion in a seaway combine to make it superior to all other yachts for sailing in Southern California's waters. Designed by Paul Kettenburg, and built at the renowned Kettenburg Boat Works on Shelter Island, Chelsea is the 27th boat of this design built in 1954 of Carvel planked Mahogany. K-38's are still recognized as the "Aristocrats of sail" on the Pacific Coast.
Her spruce mast was completely rebuilt in 2000, and is currently in the seller's warehouse. It will be reinstalled on the boat at the time of a sale. The mast currently on the boat belongs to a different K-38. When the mast was rebuilt, it was Totally disassembled, re-glued, re-rabbitted, re-finished with varnish (Not paint) and re-wired at a cost of $10k.
A completely new transom was professionally installed along with the aft 3rd of the boat being replanked at the same time.
In 2004 the entire boat was gone through, and every rib was examined and sistered where needed. At that time, a custom brace that consists of a custom built rib which goes from the port shear clamp to the starboard shear clamp was installed to give added support to the mast step and floors in the area a around the mast. The turnbuckle transfers stress from the chain plate to a stainless steel "floor" which is bolted to a new oak floor in the bilge.
The boat was completely refastened and caulked before paint was applied.
While we will always attempt to provide you with a TRUE representation of every vessel we market, during any purchase from Pop you will be encouraged to schedule an inspection from an independent, accredited surveyor and every purchase WILL ALWAYS BE subject to your satisfaction with the results from your independent survey and your own personal trial run.
We have several more Union, Cheoy Lee, Morgan, and Rhodes Bounty Two vessels for sale. If you're in the San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, or Oakland areas, please contact us to let us know what you're looking for and we'll get back with you today about any other sloop sailboat options we have locally that may meet your needs.
You have questions? We have answers. Call us at (941) 538-7803 to discuss this vessel today.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/16/25 | Initial price | $25,000 |
1956 Kettenburg K38 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1956 Kettenburg K38
Customers praise the 1956 Kettenburg K38 for its classic design and timeless craftsmanship
Many highlight the boat's sturdy construction and smooth handling on the water, making it a joy to sail. Enthusiasts appreciate the authentic vintage feel combined with practical features that have stood the test of time. Overall, owners value the Kettenburg K38 for its reliability, elegance, and the unique character it brings to their boating experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1956 Kettenburg K38 is a classic wooden sailboat known for its timeless design and solid craftsmanship. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Design: The Kettenburg K38 features elegant lines and traditional styling that appeals to vintage boat enthusiasts.
Solid Construction: Built in 1956, this model is known for its sturdy wooden hull and quality materials, ensuring durability with proper maintenance.
Sailing Performance: With a well-balanced hull and rigging, the K38 offers a smooth and responsive sailing experience.
Historical Value: As a classic boat, it holds significant historical charm and can be a rewarding restoration or collector’s project.
Spacious Deck Layout: The design provides ample space for crew and passengers, making it comfortable for day sailing or short cruises.
Cons
Maintenance Intensive: Being a wooden boat from 1956, it requires regular upkeep to prevent rot, leaks, and wear, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Limited Modern Amenities: Unlike contemporary sailboats, the K38 may lack modern conveniences and comfort features found in newer models.
Performance Limitations: While enjoyable to sail, it may not match the speed or handling characteristics of modern performance sailboats.
Availability of Parts: Finding replacement parts or original fittings for a boat of this age can be challenging.
Weight: The solid wooden construction results in a heavier vessel, which might affect trailering or launching.
Made For
The 1956 Kettenburg K38 is designed for classic boat enthusiasts who appreciate timeless craftsmanship and vintage style. Ideal for those seeking a charming and elegant vessel, this boat is perfect for leisurely cruising on calm waters, exploring serene lakes, or enjoying peaceful coastal outings. Its classic design and sturdy build make it a great choice for collectors and boating aficionados who value history and quality in a compact, versatile package.
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Boat Location
Contact Pop Yachts about 1956 Kettenburg K38
5717 Bessie Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34233

































































































































































