Farr 38 vs Hunter 38
How do the Farr 38 and Hunter 38 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Farr 38 | Hunter 38 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 38.3 ft11.66 m | 38.2 ft11.63 m |
| Waterline length | 31.2 ft9.50 m | 34.7 ft10.57 m |
| Beam | 12.0 ft3.66 m | 12.9 ft3.94 m |
| Draft | 6.5 ft1.98 m | 6.5 ft1.98 m |
| Displacement | 10,600 lb4,808 kg | 18,342 lb8,320 kg |
| Ballast | 4,100 lb1,860 kg | 6,130 lb2,781 kg |
| Sail area | 689 ft²64.0 m² | 702 ft²65.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 22.85 | 16.15 |
| Displacement / Length | 156 | 196 |
| Comfort ratio | 18.0 | 26.3 |
| Capsize screening | 2.19 | 1.96 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.5 | 7.9 |
Farr 38 vs Hunter 38: the short version
- The Farr 38 and Hunter 38 are close in length (38.3 ft11.66 m vs 38.2 ft11.63 m ).
- The Hunter 38 is heavier, displacing about 73% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Farr 38 carries the more powerful rig (22.8 vs 16.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 38 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 38 rates better for offshore work (1.96 vs 2.19).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.