1988 Ericson 38
$44,900
Boat in Kilmarnock, VA 22482 US
Built in 1988
38
1 Engine (Universal)
37.7 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Bon Vivant is a classic example of Bruce King's Ericson 38 design. This boat has been sailed, regularly maintained, and loved by her original owners since they took delivery of her. The deck layout makes for easy sailing even short-handed. The accommodations below deck are comfortable; the woodwork throughout is rich and showcases the craftsmanship of the boat. Her hullsides bear a striking awlgrip finish, and topsides are clean. Bon Vivant is your opportunity to set sail, relax on the hook, host raft-up guests, and generally enjoy some "Good Living."
Contact Matt with YaZu Yachting regarding co-brokerage opportunities.
- 2-cabin, 1-head layout
- Galley to port of companionway
- Private quarterberth aft of galley to port
- Navstation to starboard of companionway
- Wet head with electric flush to starboard, aft of navstation
- Settee to starboard forward of navstation
- Dinette to port forward of galley, opposite settee
- Private v-berth cabin forward
- Universal 5432 inboard 32hp diesel engine (5000 estimated hours}
- 2-blade fixed prop
- Balmar alternator – 72A output
- Evolution mainsail (2024)
- Evolution 135% roller-furling genoa (2022)
- Standing rigging replaced (2014)
- Whisker pole
- 110V and 12V outlets
- (1) 30A shore power inlet
- (1) 30A shore power cable
- (1) NAPA 24M 12V start battery (2018)
- (2) NAPA 12V AGM house batteries (2018)
- (1) 31M DieHard 12V AGM house battery (2018)
- (1) 31M West Marine 12V AGM house battery (2018)
- LEWCO battery charger
- Go Power GPSW 1500-12 1500W inverter
- Seaward 6 gallon water heater
- 35lb Plow anchow with 60’ of 3/8” chain and 150’ of rode
- Maxwell windlass
- Anchor washdown
- Canvas dodger and bimini with full enclosure (2013 – good condition)
- Hillerange 3-burner propane stove with oven
- Adler Barbour top-loading refrigeration/freezer
- Double stainless steel sink
- Corian countertops
- Magic Chef microwave
- Hot/cold pressurized water
- Hot/cold pressurized water
- Seaward 6 gallon water heater
- (1) electric flush head
- Depth – Datamarine
- Speed – Datamarine
- Wind – Datamarine
- Chartplotter – Garmin GPSMAP 740
- VHF – Standard Horizon Matrix NMEA 2000 GPS with AIS
- JVC Stereo
- (1) Aluminum 54 gallon fuel tank
- (3) Plastic fresh water tanks – 90 gallon total capacity
- (1) Plastic 20 gallon holding tank
- Life jackets
- Horseshoe buoy
- Jack lines
- West Marine 8’ inflatable dinghy
- Yamaha F2.5SMHB dinghy outboard
- Various engine and maintenance spares
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 9/20/25 | Price decreased | $44,900(-10.0%) |
| 10/18/24 | Initial price | $49,900 |
1988 Ericson 38 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1988 Ericson 38
Customers consistently praise the 1988 Ericson 38 for its solid construction and classic design, highlighting its spacious and comfortable interior that makes extended cruising enjoyable
Many appreciate its balanced sailing performance, noting that it handles well in a variety of conditions, offering both stability and responsiveness. Owners often mention the quality craftsmanship typical of Ericson yachts, along with the boat’s ample storage and practical layout. Overall, the 1988 Ericson 38 is regarded as a reliable and well-built cruiser that combines classic aesthetics with functional sailing capabilities.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1988 Ericson 38 is a well-regarded cruiser with several notable strengths and a few considerations to keep in mind:
Pros
Solid Construction: Built with quality fiberglass and attention to detail, offering durability and a comfortable ride.
Spacious Interior: The layout provides ample living space for extended cruising, including a roomy salon and well-appointed galley.
Good Sailing Performance: Known for balanced handling and respectable speed, making it enjoyable for both coastal cruising and club racing.
Comfortable Cockpit: Designed for ease of handling and socializing, with good ergonomics and protection.
Reliable Systems: Many models feature updated rigging and mechanical systems, contributing to overall reliability.
Cons
Aging Components: Being a 1988 model, some vessels may require updates or maintenance to systems such as rigging, electronics, and plumbing.
Limited Tankage: Fuel and water capacities may be modest compared to newer designs, impacting long-range cruising potential.
Weight: The boat’s solid build comes with a heavier displacement, which may affect light wind performance.
Interior Style: The interior design reflects the late 1980s aesthetic, which might feel dated to some buyers seeking a more modern look.
Made For
The 1988 Ericson 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a well-balanced cruiser that combines comfortable liveaboard features with solid performance under sail. It’s perfect for couples or small families who want a reliable boat for coastal cruising, weekend getaways, or longer passages. With its spacious interior, thoughtful layout, and sturdy construction, the Ericson 38 appeals to those who appreciate classic design and a vessel capable of handling a variety of sailing conditions. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or looking to step up to a capable cruiser, this boat offers a great blend of comfort, style, and seaworthiness.
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