Beneteau
Oceanis 38
The Beneteau Oceanis 38 (and the 38.1) is the larger sibling of the 35, refining the modular interior and chined-hull concept for the 38-foot segment. Designed by Finot-Conq, it offers a level of interior space and light that is truly impressive, with a layout that can feel like a 45-footer when the forward bulkhead is removed. It is positioned as the ultimate versatile family cruiser, perfect for coastal adventures and social sailing. In the market, the Oceanis 38 is a highly successful model, appealing to both private owners and high-end charter fleets. The buyer profile is the modern cruising family who values a large, social cockpit and a bright, airy interior. The build quality reflects Beneteau's industrial-scale efficiency, with a focus on structural stiffness and a clean, modular interior that is easy to maintain and modernize. Surveyors focusing on the Oceanis 38 should pay attention to the keel-to-hull joint and the twin helm steering system. The powerful hull shape and the wide beam put significant loads on the structure; check for any stress crazing around the keel grid and the rudder ports. The engine, usually a Yanmar 29hp or 40hp with a saildrive, is a benchmark for reliability, but check the saildrive seal and the cooling system. Additionally, inspect the large hull windows for any signs of weeping, as these are a key feature of the design but require perfect sealant integrity.
At a glance
Quick facts
- Production
- 2014–2018
- LOA
- 11.5 m
- Beam
- 3.68 m
- Model
- Oceanis 38
Key takeaways
- Best for: family cruising seeking maximum cockpit and salon space
- Common issue: twin wheel linkage tension and gelcoat cosmetic aging
- Typical price: high liquidity, popular in both private and charter use
Expert verdict
FairHelm rating: 7.6/10 — Innovative volume leader in class; check for steering linkage play and cockpit arch integrity.
Vadim Nareyko, FairHelm Editorial · Last reviewed: 2026-07-12
Technical data
- Length overall (LOA)
- 11.5 m
- Beam
- 3.68 m
- Production years
- 2014–2018
Typical problems
- How is the interior volume of the Oceanis 38 compared to the older 37?
- The 38 offers significantly more volume, particularly in the saloon and the forward cabin, thanks to the hard chines and the wide beam carried aft.
- Is the Oceanis 38 easy to sail shorthanded?
- Yes, the self-tacking jib and the placement of the winches near the helm make it very easy for a couple to manage. Many owners also fit an in-mast furling main for even greater ease of use.
- What is the benefit of the hard chines on the Oceanis 38?
- The chines increase the boat's form stability, meaning it stays flatter when heeled. They also increase the interior volume in the aft cabins and the saloon.
- Can the forward bulkhead be removed on all Oceanis 38s?
- Yes, it was a key design feature, although many owners choose to keep it in place for privacy. Removing it creates a massive, open-plan living space.
- What engine is typically found in the Oceanis 38?
- Most are fitted with a Yanmar 29hp or 40hp engine with a saildrive. Both provide ample power for the boat's displacement.
Design History
Oceanis 38 emerged when Scandinavian and North Sea yards were scaling reliable GRP cruising platforms for owner crews rather than charter fleets. French production shaped the hull lines and interior volume for predictable manners in Baltic chop and North Sea swell. Production ran from 2014 to 2018; registry and owner-club sources cite approximately ~280–730 completed hulls.
Beneteau positioned the Oceanis 38 for coastal and offshore use in the 2014–2018 production window — explaining mixed maintenance histories on the secondary market today.
Mid-production changes were mostly interior trim, engine options, and deck hardware rather than fundamental hull revisions. That means survey condition, winter storage history, and rigging invoices usually matter more than the model year printed on the brochure. When you evaluate a Oceanis 38 on Blocket, treat the maintenance story as part of the specification — not a footnote after the asking price.
Annual Ownership Costs
| Cost item | Low (SEK) | High (SEK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marina berth | 22,000 | 48,000 | 11.5 m class, Stockholm/Gothenburg |
| Insurance | 8 000 | 22 000 | Agreed value and cruising area |
| Haul-out + winter | 12 000 | 28 000 | Yard package varies by region |
| Antifouling + hull care | 6 000 | 16 000 | Materials and labour |
| Engine / drivetrain | 5 000 | 16 000 | Service intervals and saildrive |
| Rigging reserve | 7 000 | 20 000 | Standing rigging age |
| Deck / structural reserve | 6 000 | 22 000 | Bedding, moisture follow-up |
| Total annual | 62 000 | 172 000 | Excludes major refit years |
Annual ownership for Oceanis 38 is predictable when service records are complete. Berth, storage, and insurance dominate fixed costs in Sweden. The largest variables are rigging replacement timing and any survey-led deck or drivetrain work triggered after purchase. Keep a separate technical reserve so routine season costs stay stable — especially on Blocket boats marketed as "ready to sail" without invoices.
Pre-Purchase Survey Checklist
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist: Oceanis 38
Hull, Keel and Underwater Body
- Moisture-map the underwater hull; document osmosis or barrier-coat history on Oceanis 38 GRP of this era.
- Inspect keel-to-hull joint, keel bolts (if external iron), and backing structure for movement or recurring fairing cracks.
- Check rudder bearings and steering linkage under load during sea trial.
Deck and Hardware
- Test bedding at stanchions, tracks, and winches; open nearby interior access if damp stains appear.
- Inspect hatches and portlights for seal compression and core moisture at corners.
- Verify chainplate areas internally for rust staining or soft laminate.
Rig and Sail Systems
- Confirm standing rigging age with invoices; treat unknown age as near-term replacement on club-used hulls.
- Inspect mast step, spreaders, and terminals for corrosion or fatigue marks.
- Operate furling and reefing systems under realistic load.
Machinery and Systems
- Review engine and saildrive service including cooling, exhaust elbow, and mounts.
- Audit batteries, charging, and owner-added electrical work for safe fusing.
- Check tanks, bilges, and hoses for age-related seepage.