1990 Holland Down East Cruiser 38 “Big Fish III”

1990 Holland 38 Down East Cruiser is a rugged, skeg-built Maine-style powerboat known for exceptional seakeeping and efficient performance.

Overview & History

• Heritage: Designed and built in the tradition of classic Jonesport and Beals Island working craft, the Holland Boat Shop (led by Glenn Holland) scaled up its legendary hull designs to create the versatile 38-footer.
• Purpose: Built to handle punishing northern Atlantic waters, it serves dual duty as an exceptionally stable cruising platform and a serious offshore sea boat.

Key Specifications (1990 Model)

• • Length Overall (LOA): 38 feet (11.58 meters)
  • Beam: 12 feet (3.66 meters)
  • Draft: 4 feet (1.22 meters)
  • Displacement: Approx. 22,000 lbs
  • Hull Material: Heavy-duty hand-laid fiberglass
  • Fuel Capacity: 200 gallons (standard diesel)
  • Water Capacity: 200 gallons
  • Typical Power: Single Caterpillar 3208TA (approx. 300–375 hp)

Sellers mote: the engine has 9400 hours, it was completely rebuilt in 2017 ($50K)...unfortunately, we do not now how many hours since the rebuild...we did not track

Performance & Handling

• • Ride Quality: The skeg-built full keel and fine entry offer steadfast directional stability and a predictable, soft ride in a head sea.
  • Speed: Cruises comfortably in the 12 to 14-knot range, topping out around 16 to 18 knots depending on specifichorsepower configurations and payload.
  • Efficiency: Delivers an impressive turn of speed per unit of horsepower compared to wider, semi-displacement or planing sportfishers of similar length.

Layout & Onboard Liveability

• • Deck & Cockpit: Features a generous open aft cockpit suited for fishing or lounging, with high coamings and solid protection. Many models feature a flybridge or lower helm station configuration.
  • Interior: Typically finished with durable marine joinery, optimized for extended cruising with extensive storage lockers, a functional lower galley, a V-berth or double-berth forecastle, and an enclosed head.