1983 Contessa 38

Ariel is a 1983 Contessa 38. She is a classic Bermudan Cutter rigged cruiser-racer renowned for solid build quality, seaworthiness and timeless design. This particular vessel has been well used and well cared for, reflecting the years of capable sailing while remaining in excellent condition. Built with a strong GRP hull and a long fin keel, she offers a reassuringly stable and responsive performance, ideal for both coastal cruising and serious offshore passages. The interior is compact yet practical, with comfortable berths, a functional galley and ample storage. Rigging and Sanders sails are in good working order, ensuring she is ready to sail without major upgrades. Ariel is a fine example of a well-loved classic yacht that`s ready for many more seasons afloat. Since purchasing her in 2010 Alan and Maggie have had a programme of continual upgrading: new sails, standing and running rigging, new radar, chart plotter (currently Axiom), autopilot, upgraded electronics, DuoGen wind and water generator, interior soft furnishings, replacement cooker, water heating, refigeration, cabin heating, new cockpit teak, Darglow feathering propellor and a new engine in 2019. *Warning* don’t read this if you’re a fair-weather sailor scared of the open ocean. Why buy a yacht? Powerboats are faster, cars are more convenient… If you’re anything like me – you’re reading this advert because you’re searching for the freedom, the adventure, and the self-sufficiency still to be found in this world. Nothing provides these rare and precious of life gemstones like Ariel. A sturdy old girl who feels just as comfortable and at home in a force 7 off the West coast of Scotland as she does when becalmed in the Solent. Crusing chute lifting lazily as you exhale a deep sigh of satisfaction. She may no longer be the fastest BUT she’s beautiful in a way modern boats can only envy. Just look at her underwater profile! Every inch of her screams powerful sailing. Plus she’s as sturdy as they come (and if you want raw speed – buy a sports car). When all of your friends have to go back to harbour with their tails between their legs, you can still be exploring and living life to the fullest with total confidence in this sturdy, seaworthy vessel. Enjoy untethered adventure thanks to totally self-contained “eco” power generation. Whilst everyone else has to plug into the mains to charge their batteries, you’ll be out creating your own real-life “tall tales” of nautical adventure. Because time and tide wait for no man – and neither will Ariel hang around on the shelf very long. So call Roy before someone else steals your adventure. Raymarine Axiom 9” chart plotter Ocean Safety 4 man offshore cannister liferaft – serviced 2026 1 electric automatic bilge pump 6 Lewmar self-tailing cockpit winches 1 Lofrans Electric anchor windlass Ariel is equipped with: mains immersion heater, engine driven water heating, Duogen wind and water electrical generation, for extended offshor