Pardo 38 for Sale

Pardo 38 Specifications

The Pardo 38’s walkaround layout is the defining architectural feature. Unlike conventional sportscruisers with a central cabin structure that blocks fore-and-aft movement, the 38’s low-profile deckhouse allows continuous deck-level circulation from cockpit to bow along wide side decks. This layout maximises usable outdoor space on a sub-40-foot hull and makes the boat feel significantly larger than its 11.97 m LOA suggests. The design traces its lineage to the centre-console boats popular in the United States, but the Pardo execution — with its vertical bow, flush deck, and Italian material selections — is a distinctly Mediterranean interpretation.

The commitment to outboard power is a deliberate engineering choice. Twin outboards eliminate the need for inboard engine rooms, freeing hull volume for accommodation and storage. They provide superior power-to-weight ratio, shallower draft when trimmed up, easier and less expensive servicing (the engines can be tilted out of the water for inspection), and the ability to upgrade powertrains without modifying hull structure. The trade-off is aesthetics — outboards are visible on the transom — but Pardo has addressed this with an integrated engine cowling design that keeps the transom visually clean when the engines are lowered.

The CE Category B (Offshore) certification is notable for a walkaround of this size. It means the Pardo 38 is rated for wind forces up to Beaufort 8 and significant wave heights up to 4 metres — genuine offshore capability that allows confident island-hopping across the Aegean, Balearics, or the Tyrrhenian Sea. Not every competitor in this class carries a B rating.

Performance & Handling

Speed and power: With the top engine option — twin Mercury V8 400 hp Verado outboards delivering 800 hp combined — the Pardo 38 reaches a top speed of approximately 38 knots and cruises comfortably at 28–30 knots. With the more common twin 300 hp configuration (600 hp combined), top speed is around 33–34 knots with a cruising speed of 24–26 knots. These are not headline-grabbing figures for 800 hp, but the Pardo 38 is a heavier boat than many competitors — the 8,500 kg light displacement reflects the substantial construction, generous fuel and water tankage, and the weight of the extensive teak decking and premium interior fit-out. The boat is designed for comfortable, composed cruising rather than outright speed.

Hull and planing behaviour: The deep-V planing hull with variable deadrise transitions smoothly onto the plane at around 12–14 knots, with minimal bow rise thanks to the hull’s wide beam and well-placed spray rails. Once on plane, the 38 runs flat and stable, with good directional tracking and predictable turn-in. The hull’s carbon fibre reinforcement in structural areas adds stiffness without the weight penalty of additional GRP laminate, contributing to the composed ride quality that reviewers consistently note. In a chop, the 38 absorbs wave impacts with less slamming than lighter, sharper-bowed competitors.

Fuel efficiency: With the 800-litre fuel tank, range at cruising speed (28 knots with twin 400 hp) is approximately 180–200 nautical miles, consuming around 120–130 litres per hour. At a more economical 18–20 knots, fuel burn drops to approximately 70–80 litres per hour, extending range to 200–220 nm. These figures make the Pardo 38 a practical day-cruiser for Med island-hopping — a return trip from Portofino to Corsica, or from Athens to the nearest Cycladic islands, is well within a single tank. At displacement speeds of 8–10 knots, the outboards sip fuel and range extends significantly.

Handling in Mediterranean sea states: The Pardo 38 was designed for the conditions it will actually encounter: the short, steep chop of the Mistral in the Gulf of Lion, the afternoon thermal winds off the Dalmatian islands, and the confused seas around headlands in the Aegean. The combination of wide beam, moderate deadrise, and substantial displacement produces a stable, predictable platform that inspires confidence when conditions deteriorate. The walkaround layout means there are no internal steps or level changes to negotiate in a seaway — you can move around the boat at speed while it is underway.

Outboard power advantages: Twin outboards offer several practical benefits beyond raw performance. The engines trim up fully for beaching and shallow anchorages — with engines raised, draft reduces to just 0.90 m, allowing access to the shallow bays and coves that characterise much of the Mediterranean coastline. Servicing is simplified: a Mercury dealer can work on the engines without hauling the boat, and annual service costs for twin outboards are typically 30–40% lower than equivalent inboard diesels. The engines can be replaced individually without major hull work, and the technology upgrade cycle for outboards is faster than for marine diesels — a meaningful consideration for resale value.

Deck Layout & Social Space

The Pardo 38’s cockpit and deck layout is the primary reason people buy this boat. It is, without qualification, one of the most impressive social spaces on any production vessel under 40 feet. Every design decision has been made to maximise outdoor entertaining capacity, and the result is a boat that can comfortably host 8–12 people for a full day of cruising, swimming, and dining without anyone feeling crowded.

Aft cockpit: The main cockpit is dominated by a large C-shaped settee in marine-grade upholstery, wrapped around a teak table that pivots and adjusts to create either a formal dining arrangement for six or a flush sunbathing surface when lowered. The cockpit sole is teak-laid throughout, and the gunwale height is carefully calibrated to feel open and connected to the water while maintaining safety — a balance that many competitors get wrong, either with intimidatingly low freeboard or claustrophobic high bulwarks.

Cockpit galley: To port, a galley module integrates a grill, sink with pressurised water, refrigerator, and preparation surface. This is not a token wet bar — it is a functional outdoor kitchen that allows the host to prepare a full Mediterranean lunch without leaving the social space. Ice maker, additional storage, and a second fridge are available as options. The galley’s position means the person cooking remains part of the group, facing the C-shaped settee — a thoughtful piece of social engineering.

Forward sun pad: The bow features a large sun pad with adjustable backrests, accessed via the walkaround side decks. This creates a second, more private social zone — separate from the aft cockpit — that is particularly appealing at anchor, where it provides an unobstructed view forward and catches the breeze. The forward area also includes storage lockers and a concealed anchor windlass.

Swim platform and water access: The hydraulic swim platform at the transom lowers to water level, creating a beach club that makes getting in and out of the water effortless. An outdoor shower is integrated into the transom. The platform is large enough for two people to sit on at water level — a feature that transforms the back of the boat into a swimming and snorkelling staging area. On optioned examples, the platform extends aft to increase the total water-access area.

Below decks: The accommodation is purposefully compact. A forward cabin with a double berth, overhead hatch for ventilation, and stowage lockers provides genuine overnight capability for a couple. An enclosed head compartment with marine toilet and separate shower sits amidships. There is no attempt to create a multi-cabin interior — the Pardo 38 is honest about its priorities. The hull volume saved by limiting below-deck accommodation is reallocated to the cockpit, fuel tankage, and structural reinforcement. Buyers wanting two or three cabins should look at the Pardo 43 or 50.

Why this layout dominates Mediterranean day-boating: The Mediterranean boating culture is fundamentally different from the Northern European or American model. Boats in the Med are used primarily during the day, at anchor in bays, for swimming and socialising. A large, sheltered interior is less important than a generous, well-appointed deck. The ability to serve lunch to eight people, with a proper galley, teak flooring, and a swim platform at water level, is the defining use case. The Pardo 38 was designed from the outset for exactly this purpose, and it delivers it better than almost any other boat in its size class.

Pardo 38 Ownership: What to Expect

The Pardo 38 occupies a premium price bracket for a sub-40-foot walkaround — a deliberate positioning that reflects the Italian design, build quality, and brand cachet that Cantiere del Pardo has cultivated. Buyers are paying not just for the boat, but for entry into a specific Mediterranean boating lifestyle and a brand that has cultivated genuine desirability in a very short time.

• New-build pricing: A new Pardo 38 lists from approximately €350,000–€400,000 ex VAT with twin Mercury 300 hp outboards and standard specification. With the preferred twin 400 hp Verado engines, upgraded electronics (Garmin or Raymarine MFD package), teak throughout, hydraulic swim platform, T-top or optional hard top, and the full galley module, a well-specified example reaches €420,000–€450,000 ex VAT. A handful of heavily optioned builds have exceeded €480,000. Pricing varies by market: Mediterranean-delivered boats attract Italian or Greek VAT at 22–24%, while export to non-EU destinations avoids VAT entirely.
• Used market: Pre-owned Pardo 38s from 2019–2022 trade between €280,000 and €380,000 depending on engine hours, specification, and condition. The used market is relatively thin — Pardo 38 owners tend to hold their boats, and the model’s production numbers are modest compared to volume builders. When a well-maintained, low-hours example appears, it sells quickly. This scarcity supports resale values.
• Annual operating costs: Twin outboard servicing (annual service, impeller, anodes, oil and filter changes) runs approximately €3,000–€5,000 for the pair. Antifouling and hull maintenance adds €2,500–€4,000 depending on location and paint system. Insurance at 1.0–1.5% of hull value, marina berthing for a 12-metre vessel in the Mediterranean (€5,000–€15,000 depending on location — Sardinia and the Côte d’Azur are the most expensive), and winter storage and commissioning add further costs. Total annual running costs in Mediterranean waters are typically €20,000–€35,000 excluding fuel.
• Fuel costs: At cruising speed with twin 400 hp outboards, the Pardo 38 burns approximately 120–130 litres per hour of unleaded petrol. A typical five-hour Med day trip at mixed speeds costs €400–€600 in fuel at current European prices. The outboard petrol engines are thirstier per hour than equivalent inboard diesels, but the lower purchase price, lower servicing costs, and simpler maintenance of outboards partially offset the fuel cost differential over a season of use.
• The Pardo premium: New buyers will notice that the Pardo 38 commands a 15–25% price premium over comparable walkarounds from volume manufacturers. This premium buys three things: Italian design and material quality (the teak, upholstery, and hardware are noticeably superior to competitors), low production volumes that maintain exclusivity, and a brand that has rapidly established itself as a status signifier in Mediterranean marina culture. Whether the premium is justified depends on how much the buyer values these intangibles — but the strong resale values suggest the market considers the premium well-founded.

The Pardo 38 does not require professional crew. It is designed to be operated single-handed by an experienced boater, though having a second person for docking and anchoring is advisable. It fits a standard 12-metre Mediterranean berth and can be transported by road on a specialist low-loader for winter storage or relocation, though its 8,500 kg displacement puts it beyond the range of normal towing.

How to Buy a Pardo 38

New vs used: New Pardo 38s are available through the Pardo Yachts dealer network, with build slots typically quoted for 6–12 month delivery depending on specification and season. The factory in Forlì builds to order rather than to stock, so early engagement with a dealer is advisable if you want delivery for a specific summer season. Used examples are available through specialist Mediterranean brokerages and occasionally through the Pardo dealer network’s trade-in programme. Given the model’s short production history (from 2019), most used boats are relatively young and low-hours.

The Pardo range context: The 38 is the entry model. Above it, the Pardo 43 — the original model and still the range’s best-seller — adds a second cabin, more cockpit space, and typically inboard diesel power (Volvo D6) as an option alongside outboards. The Pardo 50 introduces a proper owner’s cabin with en-suite, a crew area, and significantly more interior volume. The 60 and 75 are full motor yachts with multiple cabins, professional galley areas, and flybridge or raised helm options. Buyers choosing the 38 should be clear that they are prioritising the day-boat experience over accommodation — if two cabins and a larger interior are important, the 43 is the better choice, though it costs approximately €150,000–€200,000 more.

Key Considerations for Buyers

• Engine choice: The most important decision is engine power. The twin Mercury 300 hp (600 hp combined) delivers adequate performance for most use cases and saves approximately €30,000–€40,000 over the 400 hp option. However, the twin 400 hp Verado configuration provides meaningfully better acceleration, higher cruising speed, and — critically — better resale value. The majority of Pardo 38 owners on the secondary market seek the 400 hp version. Unless budget is the primary constraint, the 400 hp engines are the recommended choice.
• Hard top vs T-top: The Pardo 38 is available with a T-top (lighter, more open, less expensive) or an optional hard top with integrated lighting, speakers, and sometimes a retractable sunroof. The hard top adds approximately €25,000–€35,000 but provides genuine shade in Mediterranean summer heat and a more finished appearance. For boats used primarily in southern latitudes, the hard top is strongly recommended.
• Hydraulic swim platform: The optional hydraulic swim platform transforms the stern into a proper beach club, lowering to water level for easy swimming access. It adds approximately €15,000–€20,000 but is considered essential by most Mediterranean owners. Check whether this is fitted on any used example you are considering.
• Bow thruster: The optional bow thruster simplifies close-quarters manoeuvring in tight Mediterranean harbours, particularly when berthing stern-to in crosswinds. Twin outboards already provide excellent low-speed control through differential thrust, but a bow thruster adds a further margin of confidence for less experienced helmsmen or in challenging berthing situations.
• Mediterranean vs export markets: The Pardo 38 was designed for the Mediterranean, and the vast majority of units operate in Italian, Croatian, Greek, Spanish, and French waters. Export examples exist in the UK, Northern Europe, and the Americas, but buyers outside the Med should consider that the open walkaround layout provides limited weather protection in colder, wetter climates. There is no enclosed helm, no wheelhouse, and the forward cabin is compact. In Northern European waters, a boat with more weather protection may be more practical for the majority of the boating season.
• Sea trial checklist: When trialling a Pardo 38, assess engine trim response at various speeds, confirm both engines produce matched RPM and temperature at wide-open throttle, test the hydraulic swim platform operation, check the helm electronics and GPS integration, inspect the teak decking for lifting or discolouration (an indicator of poor maintenance), run the galley water system, and — critically — spend time at anchor to evaluate the boat’s roll characteristics in beam-on conditions.

The Pardo 38 rewards buyers who understand what it is: a dedicated Mediterranean day cruiser optimised for outdoor entertaining and coastal exploration. It is not a long-range passage maker, a fishing boat, or a liveaboard. Buyers who align with its intended use case will find it one of the most satisfying boats in its class.

Pardo 38 vs Competitors

The premium walkaround sport cruiser segment has expanded rapidly since 2018, with builders from Italy, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and the United States competing for buyers who want a fast, stylish, socially oriented day boat. The Pardo 38 sits at the premium end of this market, and any prospective buyer should understand how it compares to the principal alternatives.

Pardo 38 vs Axopar 37

The Axopar 37 is the Pardo 38’s most frequently compared competitor and the boat that defined the modern walkaround segment. The Finnish-built Axopar is lighter (approximately 5,400 kg dry vs the Pardo’s 8,500 kg), available in more configurations (Sun Top, Cross Top, Cross Cabin, Spyder), and priced significantly lower at approximately €250,000–€350,000 depending on variant and specification. The Axopar’s twin-stepped hull delivers excellent straight-line speed and fuel efficiency per knot, and its utilitarian Scandinavian design language appeals to buyers who value function over form. Where the Pardo 38 decisively wins is fit and finish: the Italian teak work, upholstery quality, hardware selections, and overall material richness are a clear step above the Axopar. The Pardo’s cockpit is deeper and more sociable, with a proper C-shaped settee and integrated galley that makes the Axopar’s cockpit feel more spartan by comparison. The Axopar is the more versatile boat — it works in Scandinavia, the Med, and as a fishing platform — while the Pardo is a more focused, more luxurious proposition for buyers who will use it primarily for Mediterranean entertaining. If price and versatility are priorities, the Axopar wins. If Italian design DNA and social cockpit space matter more, the Pardo is the better boat.

Pardo 38 vs Fjord 41 XL

The Fjord 41 XL is the Norwegian competitor — built by Fjord (part of the Hanse Group alongside Hanse, Dehler, Moody, and Privilège) and designed by Patrick Banfield with the brand’s signature vertical bow and angular Scandinavian design language. At approximately 12.74 m LOA, the Fjord is nearly a metre longer than the Pardo 38, and its 4.20 m beam is meaningfully wider, providing an even larger cockpit. The Fjord is available with both inboard diesel (twin Volvo D4 or D6) and outboard power, giving buyers a choice the Pardo does not offer. The inboard diesel option provides better range and lower fuel costs at cruise, while the outboard variant matches the Pardo’s configuration. The Fjord’s interior is more spacious, with a larger forward cabin and more standing headroom. New pricing is similar to the Pardo, at approximately €400,000–€500,000 depending on engines and options. The choice between these two boats is largely aesthetic and cultural: the Fjord is Scandinavian minimalism — clean lines, functional surfaces, muted colours — while the Pardo is Italian warmth — teak, rich upholstery, and a more indulgent social atmosphere. Both are excellent boats; the preference is personal.

Pardo 38 vs Nimbus T11

The Nimbus T11 is the Swedish contender in the premium walkaround space. Built by Nimbus Boats in Gothenburg, the T11 is approximately 10.98 m LOA with a beam of 3.30 m — more compact than the Pardo 38 in both length and beam. The Nimbus offers significantly more weather protection through its deeper windscreen, available enclosed helm, and the Scandinavian comfort-first approach to design. Power comes from a single or twin Volvo Penta sterndrive or outboard configuration. The T11’s below-deck accommodation is more developed, with better headroom and a more usable cabin layout for weekend cruising in variable weather. New pricing sits from approximately €280,000–€380,000, undercutting the Pardo. However, the Nimbus makes trade-offs that the Pardo does not: the cockpit social space is smaller, the swim platform is more conventional, and the overall material quality — while good by Scandinavian standards — does not match the Pardo’s Italian teak and upholstery richness. The Nimbus is the better choice for owners in Northern European waters who need weather protection and prioritise overnight comfort. The Pardo is the better choice for Mediterranean buyers who want the ultimate open-air day-boat experience and are willing to pay for Italian luxury.

Pardo 38 vs Wellcraft 355

The Wellcraft 355 represents the American alternative. Built by Wellcraft (part of Groupe Beneteau’s US operations, manufactured in Cadillac, Michigan), the 355 is a centre-console sport boat at approximately 10.82 m LOA with a beam of 3.20 m. It is designed primarily as a versatile fishing and cruising platform, with features like rod holders, live wells, and a tower option that have no equivalent on the Pardo. Power is twin outboard (typically Mercury or Yamaha 250–400 hp), and the stepped hull delivers strong straight-line performance. New pricing is significantly lower than the Pardo at approximately USD 300,000–USD 400,000 (roughly €270,000–€360,000), reflecting both the volume manufacturing and the simpler specification. The Wellcraft’s cockpit is functional and spacious but lacks the Pardo’s teak decking, integrated galley sophistication, and the overall sense of material luxury. The cabin is more utilitarian, with fibreglass surfaces and practical marine-grade finishes rather than the Pardo’s wood and premium upholstery. The Wellcraft is the rational choice for buyers who want a versatile, well-built centre console at a lower price point, particularly for mixed fishing and cruising use. The Pardo is the emotional choice — a dedicated Mediterranean lifestyle boat that makes no attempt at fishing versatility but delivers Italian luxury and social space that the Wellcraft cannot match.

For a full interactive comparison between the Pardo 38 and competing models, visit the Hulls.io Market Intelligence tool, where you can overlay pricing trends, track seasonal demand, and benchmark value retention across the walkaround sport cruiser segment.