Cheoy Lee 38 (Offshore 38)

Description

The Cheoy Lee 38 (also known as the Cheoy Lee Offshore 38 in some listings) is a classic cruising sailboat built by Cheoy Lee Shipyard Ltd. in Hong Kong from around 1968 to the late 1970s/early 1980s (with examples commonly dated 1968–1980+; the "Offshore 38" variant is often noted from 1975 onward). It was designed by Raymond Richards (American naval architect); production numbers are not publicly well-documented but appear relatively low (a "rare" or limited-production classic among Cheoy Lee models, with surviving examples occasionally listed for sale). Special features include its long keel (or fin with skeg rudder in some variants) for excellent tracking and stability, heavy-duty fiberglass construction (solid GRP hull and deck, typical of Cheoy Lee's robust era builds), teak trim and interior woodwork, traditional masthead sloop rig (with ketch options in related discussions), spacious layout for its length (often praised for roominess), and a reputation as a sturdy, moderate-to-heavy bluewater-capable cruiser with good motion comfort and offshore potential—suitable for extended coastal or ocean passages, though maintenance on older teak and rigging is key.