1982 Nauticat 38
$79,900
Boat in Astoria, OR 97103 US
Built in 1982
38
1 Engine (--)
38 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1982 Nauticat 38 - Proven Offshore Cruiser, Extensively Upgraded and Ready to Sail
This Nauticat 38 isn't just a sailboat-it's a capable cruising home with the bones of a classic and the systems of a modern passagemaker. With her powerful ketch rig, extensive upgrades, and rock-solid build quality, she's ready to carry you in comfort and confidence from quiet anchorages to open ocean.
Lovingly maintained and smartly refit by an experienced owner, she's a turn-key opportunity for anyone looking to cast off the lines and go.
Vessel Specs
Year: 1982
Make: Nauticat
Model: 38
Length: 40'
Beam: 11' 9"
Draft: 6' 0"
Engine: Single Ford-Lehman 90hp diesel
Engine Hours: Approximately 8,000
Hull: Full keel, solid construction
Accommodations
Step below deck and enter a space of rich woodwork, functional layout, and seagoing comfort. This Nauticat features:
2 private cabins
2 heads
Large windows in the pilothouse and salon for light and visibility
Cozy, liveaboard-friendly layout perfect for extended cruising
Galley
Designed with offshore practicality in mind and upgraded for safety and health:
Double stainless sink
Dedicated filtered drinking water faucet
Acuva UV LED water sterilization and carbon filtration system
Oven and stove combo
Microwave
Everything you need to cook well underway or at anchor.
Power & Electrical Systems
Modern power systems give this boat serious independence from the dock:
400W solar array feeding a Victron 150V solar charge controller (Bluetooth capable)
Victron 3000W inverter/charger (2021)
Five Firefly Carbon Foam 120Ah house batteries (600Ah total, new 2021)
Victron battery monitor (2021)
Whisper 3.5kW diesel generator
Bidirectional fuel transfer system with built-in fuel polishing filtration (2022)
Water & Sanitation
Seawater Pro 40 GPH watermaker plumbed to fill primary water tank
2 heads for crew comfort
Filtered, UV-sterilized drinking water at the tap
Navigation & Electronics
Professionally equipped with a full suite of modern navigation tools:
Raymarine 12" MFD (chartplotter)
Raymarine Quantum Radar (2022)
Raymarine hydraulic autopilot with wireless remote and display
Raymarine wind instruments and display (2022)
Depth-speed-temperature sensors
VHF radio
Rigging & Sails
This ketch is rigged for efficient handling and cruising versatility:
Ketch rig with self-tacking jib
New jib boom installed
Three new sails (2024) - jib, mainsail, and mizzen, still in original packaging
Six self-tailing winches (all new in 2022)
Hull & Propulsion
Upgrades below the waterline ensure efficiency and peace of mind:
Maxprop 22" feathering prop (2022)
Propshaft line cutter (2020)
PMI Pro dripless shaft seal (2020)
Galvanic isolator installed
Comfort & Safety Equipment
Prepared for real-world cruising:
Diesel forced-air cabin heat (2022)
Mantus 65 lb anchor with 200' of 3/8" chain (2021)
West Marine 10' RIB tender (2022)
New 5hp outboard motor for dinghy (2024)
Conclusion
This 1982 Nauticat 38 is a rare blend of Nordic pedigree and modern upgrades, offered in good running and maintained condition by an owner who spared no detail. She's offshore-capable, liveaboard-comfortable, and truly ready to sail now. Whether you're planning your first coastal adventure or eyeing a transoceanic passage, this boat is a serious contender.
Turn the key, hoist the sails, and go. Your next chapter starts here.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 3/12/26 | No change | $89,999 |
| 3/3/26 | Price decreased | $79,900(-11.2%) |
1982 Nauticat 38 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1982 Nauticat 38
Customers praise the 1982 Nauticat 38 for its solid construction and classic design, highlighting its robust build quality that stands the test of time
Many appreciate its spacious and comfortable interior, making it ideal for extended cruising. The boat’s excellent seakeeping abilities are frequently mentioned, providing a smooth and stable ride even in challenging conditions. Owners also value the timeless aesthetic and traditional craftsmanship, which combine both functionality and elegance. Overall, the 1982 Nauticat 38 is regarded as a reliable and well-crafted vessel that appeals to sailors seeking a sturdy and comfortable long-distance cruiser.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1982 Nauticat 38 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its sturdy construction and traditional design. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Solid Build Quality: The Nauticat 38 is renowned for its robust, heavy-displacement hull built to handle challenging sea conditions, offering excellent durability and safety.
Traditional Aesthetics: Its classic lines and full keel design appeal to sailors who appreciate vintage style and seaworthy craftsmanship.
Comfortable Interior: The spacious layout provides ample living space below deck, making it suitable for extended cruising.
Good Offshore Capability: Designed for bluewater sailing, the Nauticat 38 performs well on long passages with stable handling in rough weather.
Reliable Systems: Many models are equipped with dependable diesel engines and straightforward mechanical systems, easing maintenance concerns.
Cons
Heavier Displacement: The solid build results in a heavier boat, which can translate to slower speeds compared to lighter, more modern designs.
Limited Maneuverability: The full keel, while offering stability, can reduce agility in tight marinas or crowded anchorages.
Older Design Features: Being a vessel from 1982, some onboard systems and amenities may be outdated and require upgrades or modernization.
Maintenance Demands: As with any older boat, upkeep can be more intensive, especially if previous owners haven’t kept up with regular maintenance.
Interior Style: The traditional interior styling may not appeal to those seeking a more contemporary or minimalist look.
Made For
The 1982 Nauticat 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a sturdy and comfortable cruiser with classic lines and reliable performance. Designed for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship combined with robust offshore capability, this boat is perfect for long-distance cruising, liveaboard lifestyles, and exploring coastal waters with confidence. Its spacious interior and solid construction make it well-suited for families, adventurous couples, or solo sailors who value safety, comfort, and timeless design on the water.
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact W S Yacht Brokers - Portland about 1982 Nauticat 38
909 N Tomahawk Island Dr, Suite 104, Portland, OR, 97217
Contact W S Yacht Brokers - Portland
909 N Tomahawk Island Dr, Suite 104, Portland, OR, 97217
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