Nicholson 38 Classic Long Keel Ketch Rigged Cruiser built circa 1968 and fitted with a Perkins 500 series 53hp inboard diesel REBUILD 2022. New Windlass, New Furler, 7 berths in 2 cabins, cabin heating. lying ashore BangorNEW LISTING Overview The Nicholson 38 is a classic, ocean-capable cruising yacht built by Camper & Nicholsons. Designed by Ray Wall, it has earned a reputation for exceptional seaworthiness, solid construction, and timeless lines. Ideal for serious cruising or comfortable liveaboard use, the Nicholson 38 combines traditional craftsmanship with dependable offshore performance. Principal Dimensions
Length Overall (LOA): 37 ft 6 in (11.43 m)
Length Waterline (LWL): ~30 ft (9.14 m)
Beam: 11 ft 3 in (3.43 m)
Draft: 6 ft 3 in (1.90 m)
Displacement: approx. 22,000 lbs (9,980 kg)
Ballast: approx. 9,000 lbs (4,080 kg)
Wheel Steering
Construction
Heavy-duty GRP hull with hand-laid laminate
Encapsulated long keel for strength and directional stability
Skeg-hung rudder for protection and control
Teak-laid decks
Renowned for robust offshore build quality
Engine & Systems
Fitted with a Perkins 500 series 53hp diesel inboard engine Full rebuild in 2022(last Service 2025)
Shaft drive propulsion to a 3 bladed propellor
Fuel capacity: approx. 45–60 gallons
Fresh water capacity: approx. 120 gallons
12V onboard electrical system - 2 solar panels -
Only 50hrs running time
Accommodation
The Nicholson 38 offers a warm, traditional interior with quality joinery throughout:
Forward cabin: V-berth with infill and storage
Eberspacher cabin heating
Saloon:
Seating to port & starbord
Plus additional cott berth to starboard
Large folding central table
Lots of Storage


Galley:
Equipped with Plastimo stove/oven,
Fridge
Pressurised hot and cold water
Sink


Navigation station: Dedicated chart table and instrumentation

Heads:
Marine toilet forward and to starboard . also second toilet in the aft cabin
Basin in both
Shower in forward heads


Aft cabin: Enclosed aft cabin with heads

Sleeps 7
Rig & Sailing Characteristics
Strong, predictable sailing performance
Excels in heavy weather and long-distance cruising
Easy motion at sea thanks to displacement and hull shape
Aluminum mast and boom.
1 main sail
1 Mizzen sail
Several Furling Sails
New Furler fitted
Self tailing winches


Deck & Equipment
Spacious cockpit with deep coamings for security
Wheel steering
Anchor locker and bow roller
Anchor Chain & Warp
Cockpit Enclosure
Beaching legs
New Electric Windlass
Navigation electronics
Compass
Echosounder
Radar Furuno
Laurance Chartplotter
Garmin GPS
Navman Speed Log & Depth
Radio
DSC VHF
Raymarine Autopilot
Radar Reflector
Navigation lghts
Navtex
Safety Equipment
Gas Detector
Lifebuoys
Barometer
Danbuoy
Jackstays
Liferaft
Safety Harness
Bilge pumps electric and manual
Key Features
Proven bluewater cruiser pedigree
Exceptional build strength and durability
Classic styling with teak interior
Stable, forgiving sailing characteristics
Strong resale appeal among traditional yacht enthusiasts
Summary The Nicholson 38 is a serious cruising yacht for sailors who value reliability, comfort, and offshore capability over modern lightweight performance. Whether crossing oceans or coastal cruising, it remains one of the most respected classic yachts in its class.