1990 Caliber 38
$87,500
Boat in Barrington, RI US
38
1 Engine (Yanmar)
38 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Designed by Michael McCreary and built by Caliber Yachts, the Caliber 38 is a well-respected offshore cruiser known for its strong construction, seakindly hull, and practical layout. With a cutter-rigged sail plan, skeg-hung rudder, and generous tankage, it strikes a balance between bluewater capability and everyday practicality. Whether you're planning coastal cruising or long-term passagemaking, this Caliber 38 offers the reliability and self-sufficiency to do it all.
Key Features & Upgrades:
- Sail Versatility: Large complement of sails in good condition, including storm sails and a gennaker on a continuous furler for added performance and flexibility. A self-steering windvane provides a reliable backup to the autopilot and enhances efficiency on long passages.
- Modern Electronics: Equipped with a below-deck autopilot, radar, AIS making navigation and passagemaking easier.
- Comfort in All Climates: Espar heater with ducting throughout keeps the cabin warm during cold-weather cruising. For warm weather 7 opening deck hatches with screens and 14 opening port lights let in plenty of breeze.
- Self-Sufficiency: A watermaker and solar power ensure long-range independence and reduced reliance on shore services.
Double Berths: 3, Pullman, Salon, quarter cabin
Heads: 2 (aft is en suite, optionally)
Heating and Ventilation:
7 opening deck hatches with screens
14 opening port lights
Two Dorade vents
Espar diesel fuel furnace and ductwork extending throughout the boat
- Yanmar 4jhe 44 HP,
- Engine Hours: 3115
- Max Prop, four blade, 2024
- Top end rebuild in 2011 at 1583 hours:
- All pistons passed compression test
- New hoses
- Transmission clutch replaced
- New motor mounts
- Sea water pump replaced in 2022
- Balmar Alternator 9150D, diodes replaced 2008, new voltage regulator 2023)
- Belt driven water maker 25 GPH on a separate pulley added in 2015, all components concealed in lockers or compartments.
- Sailomat 601 self steering wind vane
- Fresh Water Tanks 2 x 75 gallon each, over the keel
- Fuel Tank: Aluminum 45 gallon over the keel
- Fiberglass Holding Tanks, 50 Gal. pumpout in anchor locker, overboard discharge. Aft head is direct discharge
- 6 jerry cans can be mounted on deck (5 diesel, 1 gas), potentially doubling cruising range
- All upper shrouds replaced in 2007, intermediates original
- Inner forestay 2007
- Running backstays 2007
- Halyards replaced (staysail 2007, 3 new halyards 2020)
- Reefing lines and pulleys in boom replaced 2018
- Headsail sheets: numerous and in good condition
- Furler: Mkii Harken, original
- Winches:
- 4 primaries (2 Lewmar 50?s, 2 Harken 46?s)
- 1 Barient 17 for mainsheet
- 1 Barient 27 for halyards
- Rigid vang
- Additional:
- Rope clutches for halyards and reefing lines
- Line organizers
- Mainsail: Quantum 2005 in good condition, 3 reefs (two are rigged)
- Genoa: 135 pct. furling (Rolly Tasker, 8.3 oz challenger cloth, triple stitch, foam luff, 2015)
- 90 pct. furling heavy weather jib (very good condition)
- Gennaker: Doyle 720 sq ft on selden continuous furler (2015)
- Hank on storm jib (very good condition)
- Hank on staysail (very good condition)
- Storm trysail (very good condition)
- Lazy Jacks
- Anchor riding sail
- Dodger: good condition (2018)
- Binnacle Cover: good condition
- Bimini: good condition
- Awning for cockpit that connects to dodger (very good condition)
- Winter Cover: Fairclough, good condition (2018)
- Mainsail cover, Doyle 2017
- Rocna 20 (44 lbs) with 150 ft 5/16 HT chain plus 100 ft nylon rode
- 35 lb CQR with 30 ft 5/16 chain and 100 ft nylon
- FX fortress 55 anchor stored below
- 200 ft spare nylon rode
- Maxwell VW1500 vertical electric windlass with rope gypsy 2016
- Cockpit Cushions (serviceable)
- Cockpit table and cup holder
- Swim Ladder
- Cockpit Shower with hot and cold
- Pushpit seats
- Outboard motor mount
- Fishing rod holders
- Dorades
- Stainless cowl vents protected by granny bars
- Cockpit and deck pad eyes for jacklines and harnesses
- Anchor washdown
- Compass: Richie Poweramp compass
- GPS: Simrad NSS7 (and spare), 2013
- VHF: Simrad RS 35 VHF w/ AIS receiver (2013) and wireless handheld VHF
- AIS: Sitex transceiver, 2015
- AIS and GPS on NMEA 2000 network
- Simrad 3G radar (2014)
- Raymarine autopilot ST6000 with linear drive on NMEA 0183 network
- Raymarine ST60+ depth, speed and windspeed instruments
- Single Side Band (SSB) M802, 2014
- B&G NMEA 0183 repeater
- Craig Stereo, CD player and AM/FM radio
- TV Set 17 sony with antenna on stern
- House Batteries: 460 amp hours, 4x flooded Diehard 6v, 2023
- Separate engine battery
- Alternator dual output isolated to charge house and starting batteries
- Trace 1500W charger/inverter
- GFCI outlets
- Galvanic isolator
- 300 W Solar semi flexible panels
- Blue Sky 2512 MPPT solar charge controller
- 30A shore power cord, 50 ft
- Pigtail shore power adapter
- 4x Sorenson Ships lamps (oil lanterns)
- Plumbing:
- Johnson freshwater pump
- 10.5 in. household freshwater filter housing
- Custom Water maker 2015, 25 GPH, belt driven off engine, 2.5 in x 4 ft Dow membrane, all components live out of sight (comes with owners manuals)
- Force 10 3 burner propane stove with oven
- Adler Barbour fridge and freezer, 2007, with reinsulated icebox
- Extra deep full sized galley sink spray faucet/hose
- Freshwater hand pump
- Salt water foot pump
- Johnson 1000 GPH bilge pump with float switch
- Whale high capacity portable pump
- While high capacity pump in cockpit
- Diverter vale on engine sea water intake
- EPIRB
- Horseshoe floatation device with strobe
- Life sling
- Gas sniffer (new in box)
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Fire extinguishers
- Life raft (expired)
- Spare fuel injectors
- Various engine parts
- Bilge pump spare parts
- Various Filters
- 7 jack stands & blocking
- 9.5 Avon air floor dinghy with Johnson 4hp outboard (available for separate consideration)
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/23/26 | Initial price | $87,500 |
1990 Caliber 38 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1990 Caliber 38
The Caliber 38, built in 1990, has garnered enthusiastic feedback from sailors and boating enthusiasts alike
Customers often praise its solid construction and seaworthy design, making it a reliable choice for both coastal cruising and offshore adventures. Owners appreciate the spacious cabin layout, which provides comfortable living conditions with ample storage space. The well-designed galley and inviting saloon are highlights, allowing for social gatherings and relaxation during voyages. Performance-wise, the Caliber 38 is noted for its stability and responsiveness under sail, with many users expressing confidence in its ability to handle rough waters. The ease of maneuverability and efficient rigging further add to its appeal, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those newer to the sport. Another common point of praise is the boat's attention to detail and quality finishes, which create a welcoming atmosphere onboard. Maintenance is often mentioned as manageable, with many owners appreciating the layout that allows for easy access to critical systems. Overall, the Caliber 38 has a reputation for being a well-rounded vessel, providing a balance of comfort, performance, and durability that resonates well with the boating community.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1990 Caliber 38 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat, known for its solid construction and performance. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Sturdy Construction: The Caliber 38 features a robust hull and is built with high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and durability in various sea conditions.
Performance: With a well-balanced design and a fin keel, the Caliber 38 offers good sailing performance, making it suitable for both cruising and occasional racing.
Spacious Interior: The layout provides ample living space, including comfortable accommodations for a small crew or family, making it ideal for extended voyages.
Reputation: Caliber yachts are known for their safe and seaworthy designs, enhancing the peace of mind for long-distance cruising.
Versatile: This model can handle a variety of sailing conditions, from calm bays to challenging offshore passages, making it quite adaptable for different sailing experiences.
Cons
Age: Being from 1990, some elements of the boat may require updates or renovations, including electrical systems, rigging, and other equipment.
Weight: While the solid construction is a benefit, it can also make the Caliber 38 heavier, which might affect speed compared to lighter modern models.
Maintenance: Older boats often need more regular maintenance, and finding specific parts or accessories for a 1990 model might be challenging.
Limited Technology: Compared to newer yachts, features such as navigation systems or electronic aids may be outdated or require retrofitting.
Niche Market: The Caliber 38 appeals to a specific type of sailor, so resale might be more challenging if looking for a quick sale in a broader market.
Made For
The 1990 Caliber 38 is ideal for sailing enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and durability. This versatile cruising sailboat is designed for both seasoned sailors and newcomers, providing a user-friendly experience on the water. Whether you're embarking on weekend getaways or longer voyages, the Caliber 38 offers ample space and stability to accommodate couples or small families. With its robust construction and proven seaworthiness, this sailboat appeals to adventurers who prioritize safety and reliability during their oceanic explorations. The thoughtfully designed interior provides comfortable living quarters for extended trips, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate both functionality and style. Whether you're navigating coastal waters or tackling bluewater passages, the 1990 Caliber 38 promises an enjoyable and memorable sailing experience.
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1990 Caliber 38 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $87,500 | $90,000 | $99,000 | $68,000 | $108,900 | $135,000 |
| Barrington | Portsmouth | Portsmouth | North Kingstown | North Kingstown | Portsmouth |
| 38' | 39' | 28' | - | - | 51' |
| 13' | - | - | - | - | - |
| 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Yanmar | Yanmar | - | Nanni | Beta Marine | Yanmar |
| 44 hp | 40 hp | - | 29 hp | 43 hp | 75 hp |
| 428 | 1286 | 180 | 17 | 416 | 160 |
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Address
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Contact The Cruising Yacht Brokerage, LLC about 1990 Caliber 38
101 Narragansett Ave, Barrington, RI, 02806


































































