Hunter 38 Speed

[Michael Spivey]

I would very much appreciate any comments from Hunter 38 owners concerning boat speeds achieved. My own Hunter 38, (furling jib, standard main, deep keel) has only been able to achieve speeds of about 7 knots in 12-16 knots of wind, through I have heard from other users that they have achieved speeds of 12 knots.Secondly, the mainsail sleeve or bag.Should this be taught, with the sides of the "bag" forming a semi rigid pocket for the main to fall into, or should the bag simply hang from the boom.would appreciate any comments.regardsmichael spivey

 

[Steve Kamp]

Michael,My wife and I have just returned to our home on the hard after two months on our new 38. We slip the "Carolina" on the Pamlico River in North Carolina and have encountered the normally fickle summer winds. In 10 to 12 kts. on a beam reach we have achieved 7.7 kts sog indicated on the gps.This is pretty close to theoretical hull speed, and is also consistent with running on the 40 horses at 3200 rpm. At a more efficient 2600 rpm we are getting 7.2 kts sog. The sog with the motor is typical of days with calm to 2kt winds and flat water.The "Carolina" is equipped with the furling mast, no battens, and the 110 roller furling jib, shoal keel.Stay in touch,Steve and Sheila Kamp

 

[John Marty12801]

Michael, I dont think you will ever get 12 kts except maybe with a huge following sea and that would be a bit scary. I currently have a Beneteau 361 but will order a H38 shortly and I think that mid to maybe high 7's is the best you will do. If you want to get maybe half a kt extra in lighter winds, much better reversing and less rounding up in the gusts (though the H38 doesnt seem to do this much) fit an Autostream feathering prop like I did on my B361.John