Hughes Columbia Columbia 38 For Sale & Buying Center

"The new Columbia 38, patterned after the successful Columbia 40, has all the latest features in design. A spade rudder to give perfect control under even the most extreme conditions and a low wetted surface area. This, couplete with a large modern sailplan makes the 38 a top performer in all wind conditons. Ample space in her customized interior gives maximum cruising comfort for 6. This yacht is planned with the family in mind but is sophisticated enough to intrigue the ardent yachtsman. Available in keel centerboard and keel model. Auxiliary power is a Universal Atomic 4. Water and fuel capacity 25 gals. Estimated C.C.A. rating 27.9.

""Patterned after"" is probably putting it mildly. I have a copy of an original Columbia engineering drawing. It is a true lines drawing of a hull - the countour lines that define the entire shape of the hull, not just the outline. The drawing is labeled ""Columbia 40"" but there is no date nor draftman's name or initials. But what is there is a Columbia 40 keel modified to show a spade rudder rather than a keel-hung rudder. I've scanned the portion showing the keel modification. In addition there is a deep keel drawn in. Thus there is a direct path from the Charlie Morgan designed C-40 hull to the Constellation and C-38 hulls, which Columbia never attributed to any particular designer.

One owner's testimony:

I have a 1965 Columbia 38 sloop and in the years I have owned it (18) I have repaired, replaced or rebuilt everything on it. It is a fine sailor, faster than all but modern racers. It is a crank boat that sails as much as 45 degrees heeled. A very beautiful boat with classic lines that are often commented on. As far as the basic structure, it is strong and over-built. All surveyors like its basic construction and set a high ""replacement"" value on it."