Ohlson Ohlson 38

1971 Ohlson 38 – Whistler V,  "If you’ve been waiting for a true bluewater yacht with excellent build-quality, proven performance and serious upgrades — this is her."

Lying on the Panama's Pacific coast, Whistler V is a veteran of both Atlantic and Pacific crossings and was most recently sailed from Victoria, BC to Panama under her current owner’s experienced command. She is proven, prepared, and ready to go.

Designed by the legendary Swedish naval architect Einar Ohlson, the Ohlson 38 is one of the most respected Scandinavian cruiser-racers ever built, admired for her balance, tracking ability, and sea-kindly motion offshore. 

This particular yacht carries exceptional pedigree. She was laid up in England at the renowned Tyler yard and finished in Gothenburg, Sweden, blending robust British GRP construction with Scandinavian craftsmanship.

Why the Ohlson 38?

Her deep fin keel and skeg-hung rudder provide strong directional stability offshore and a forgiving, predictable helm. She delivers a comfortable motion in a seaway and performs efficiently in moderate to fresh breeze. She builds speed steadily and tracks beautifully offshore — exactly what you want when the miles matter.

Rigged for Real-World Passage Making

She is set up for confident short-handed sailing and carries a comprehensive sail inventory, including a fully battened mainsail with triple reef points, a brand new 120% genoa on a furler, spare 100% genoa, and an 85% storm jib set on a removable Solent inner stay. A dedicated storm trysail with its own track provides true heavy-weather capability, and a spinnaker with pole expands her downwind range.

Recent sail-handling upgrades include a new Harken traveler, rigid vang, and new halyards and running rigging. The result is a balanced, manageable sail plan designed to keep moving when conditions turn serious.

She also sports a Hydrovane self-steering system, your best crew for offshore passage-making.  Tested in well above 30 knots of wind, Whistler V sails well on all points with the vane.  

Navigation & Offshore Electronics

She is equipped with a serious offshore navigation and communication package. Electronics include a Raymarine MFD, V100 autopilot, and Series 65 wind, speed, and depth instruments. A Com Nav X2 Class B AIS transceiver enhances situational awareness. Communication is handled by an ICOM 604 VHF with remote mic and ICOM SSB. A Viking four-person life raft is also onboard. This is a vessel properly outfitted for offshore routing, long-distance communication, and extended passage making.

Ground Tackle

Anchoring systems reflect her offshore capability. A vertical Lewmar windlass with foot switches manages a 45 lb Vulcan anchor with 300 feet of chain and nylon rode. A 30 lb Fortress anchor with 200 feet of line provides additional security. She anchors as confidently as she sails.

Electrical & Systems

The electrical system has been upgraded with a new Paneltronics 12v/120v breaker panel. She carries 12v lead-acid house batteries and a dedicated start battery, supported by 300 watts of solar and a small inverter. The system is robust, simple, and appropriate for extended cruising.

Interior – Classic and Seagoing

Below decks, Whistler V offers a full galley, long secure sea berths, excellent headroom, a comfortable salon, and generous storage for extended cruising. The layout reflects her offshore heritage — practical, warm, and built for life at sea.

Take the Helm!

Whistler V represents a rare opportunity to acquire a proven offshore yacht with true ocean-crossing history, respected Scandinavian design pedigree, and thoughtful, functional upgrades already in place. Professionally maintained and realistically offered at $49,000 USD on the Pacific coast of Panama, she is well-positioned for her next owner to step aboard and continue the voyage with confidence.