2021 X-Yachts Xp 38 Shoal Draft Option

Additional Specs, Equipment and Information:

During the Xperformance design process, Velocity Prediction Programs were utilised to optimise each yacht’s hull shape. This confirmed to the design team that it was key to slightly reduce the overall displacement – whilst actually increasing the power.
This was achieved by creating a heavier keel bulb yet keeping the overall design light by use of advanced build techniques and high-tech materials.

The high ballast to weight ratio gives great stability and ensures the Xp 38 is 
equally well-mannered whether carrying a racing sailplan and full complement of crew on the rail, or flying a cruising chute as it eats up the miles for a husband and wife
bluewater cruise.

Hull design is another factor that influences a yacht’s power, stability and responsiveness. Key features of the Xp range are a reduced upright beam waterline and wetted surface area, whilst the power of the hull shape increases as the boat heels. The Xp 38 transom shape is designed to increase in waterline length as the windspeed builds and the boat powers up, thus further extending the top speed.

Careful buoyancy distribution ensures that the powerful, wider aft sections are immersed and so the boat trims correctly fore and aft. An additional benefit is that the increased forward flare in the topsides makes the Xp 38 an easier boat to drive at full power downwind – whether racing or cruising. The above factors combine to make the Xp range faster, safer, and hugely enjoyable to sail: truly performance without compromise.

The Xp 38 deck layout is designed to balance clean lines and minimalist style, with usability, safety and security. Attractive teak decking is fitted as standard, with the option to extend the teak across the side decks and coach roof. The stylish finish is complemented by concealed passages for halyards, sheets and trim lines, together with flush fittings and details such as the folding Nomen mooring cleats.

Ergonomics for both cruising and racing have been carefully considered, with the centre console functioning as a handy foot chock for crew sitting on the cockpit benches, whilst the width of the bulwark varies along the length of the yacht to improve the comfort of a ‘hiking’ race crew and ensure aesthetically pleasing lines.

Hatches and windows
The Xp 38 deck hatches, portlights and windows are carefully selected for a flush fitting. Advanced design hinge mechanisms on the opening coachroof windows ensure there are no fittings or bolts visible from the outside, yet allowing ventilation and increased light down below.

The Xp 38 offers stylish cockpit furniture options normally associated with much larger yachts, including an inventive optional cockpit table which neatly folds away into its own recess in the cockpit sole, enabling a swift change from functional sailing area to stylish entertaining zone. Additionally, there is a designated recess for the sprayhood framework and canvas, a specially designed ‘garage’ for the washboard, and a built-in halyard bin for rope tails for a clutter-free, safe and smart cockpit and coachroof area that is a pleasure to sail or relax in. Expanded teak decking across both side decks and the coachroof are optional.

Liferaft storage is integrated into the cockpit sole while there is ample additional storage easily accessible in the cockpit lockers. Adjustable foot-chocks ensure the helmsman may enjoy a perfect steering position, with a sense of security as well as a clear view forward during manoeuvres and close sailing situations. 

The optional folding transom creates a secure stern area or a teak-topped swim platform with telescopic swim ladder.

The carefully designed steering system ensures the Xp 38’s ample power is easily handled with a thrilling sense of speed on the helm. The rudder is fitted with high quality self-aligning roller bearings for reduced friction, maximum ‘feel’ and precise steering.

Twin composite wheels are also designed for optimum responsiveness, with reduced moments of inertia compared to
conventional steel or aluminium wheels. Heavier metal wheels dampen or reduce the ‘feedback’ felt by the helmsman due to increased inertia of the wheel not in use. The series-connected steering cables are linked to the rudderstock via a large quadrant, onto which an optional autopilot ram connects, giving extra security.

The Xp 38 was designed from the outset with two rig choices, a standard alloy mast or an optional higher-aspect carbon mast
and boom. Both were developed in close co-operation with leading rig development companies and sailmakers, for strength,
low-windage and exceptional control.

In order to enjoy perfect sail trim, X-Yachts masts and rigging are designed so they can be easily and precisely adjusted, and with sufficient stiffness to maintain that shape for repeatable, fast sail settings. A rig with too much flex and stretch will ‘pump’, particularly when sailing upwind in waves, which means both the headsail and main will change shapes and lose optimum trim.

The Xp 38 carries a hydraulic backstay for efficient and reliable tuning. To minimise forestay ‘sag’ for optimum upwind performance, 
it is essential to be able to tighten the backstay (and thereby the forestay). Inferior mechanical backstay adjusters are often fitted as standard to yachts of this size, but they do not have as great a range of adjustment and so are unable to achieve optimum backstay/forestay tension in all conditions.