Carver Emphasizes Handling and Speed with the New 38 Super Sport

Improved overall handling with the IPS System delivers added maneuverability and better speed.

By Capt. Chris Kourtakis

The 38 Super Sport was redesigned to be the first boat in Carver’s line to handle Volvo’s all new Inboard Propulsion System (IPS).

The all new IPS system helped the 38 Super Sport reach top speeds of over 35 mph. Since there is no other propulsion system on the market like it, the best way to describe the system is that it can be compared to an airplane propeller. Instead of pushing the boat, the IPS system uses a sterndrive like application with dual counter rotating props that face forward.

The IPS system eliminates typical shafts, struts and rudders found on traditional inboard systems. Our test on Lake Michigan showed that the IPS system has improved the boat’s overall handling, giving it great maneuverability while allowing it to perform well at all speeds. Getting used to captaining the new system will not take long, and you will wonder how you ever got along without it.

From the Stern Up

The spacious 92 square foot cockpit allows you to customize the area any way that you desire. You may also order the optional sport package and get 4 rod holders in the combing pads, 2 insole fish boxes, and a livewell pump. The floor is reinforced to handle a fighting chair.

Accessing the large swim platform is easy through Carver’s signature heavy-duty transom door. On the swim platform, you will find that the cleats are placed low and in the corners, which allows easy access to the boat without having to jump over any dock lines. You will also find a telescoping ladder that makes getting out of the water effortless.

Spacious Bridge

The inviting six integral steps and stainless steel rail make accessing the bridge simple. This is thoughtful feature since the bridge usually becomes the hang out spot. Carver makes sure that there is enough room for you and your friends when you are skippering the boat. The forward bench seats four adults comfortably, while the wet bar, complete with cold water tap allows you to keep your drinks close at hand.

The sophisticated helm has a tilt wheel to allow you to sit down and drive or stand up to dock the boat. Analog gauges monitor your ship’s systems with the help of the IPS digital monitors. There is also plenty of room for the electronics package of your choice, or the optional bow thruster that helps add maneuverability.

Not Your Ordinary Bow

Whether you want to use the optional sun pad or handle the dock lines, the wide walkway which is typical of Caver, makes these tasks comfortable. The high stainless steel railing gives you added stability, while the uniquely designed deck edges are flared up so that your feet cannot slip off of the deck. You will also find the standard windlass system mounted for easy accessibility.

Cozy yet Elegant Salon

The spacious cabin is well lit from the double tier windows that also give you a great view of the horizon from any angle. The strategically laid out and spacious interior is comforting when it comes time to settle down for the night. The sofa is a perfect place for watching a movie on the standard 20-inch LCD TV and DVD player.

Across from the sofa is the compact and efficient galley that is ready to entertain you and your guests. Whether you want to make popcorn for your movie with the built-in microwave, or whip up a gourmet meal on the two-burner electric stove, the galley gives you the amenities that you will find at home, including a coffeemaker and side-by-side Nor Cold Refrigerator and freezer.

The raised couch roof gives you access to a well-thought-out design style dinette that is usually seen on larger yachts. The raised L-shaped dinette wraps around a cherry wood table that seats four adults comfortably.

Master Stateroom

Accessing the queen berth is easy with steps on both sides to help you up. There are also two night stands, ample storage compartments, and a standard DVD and LCD TV. The stateroom is also filled with natural light from the large deck hatch above.

Getting Ready is Easy

There may only be one head on the boat, but the two entrances, one from the master stateroom and the other from the hallway is feature rich with the vacuum flush toilet located in the separate shower stall, stylish vanity with good storage, and air conditioning vents to make sure that you stay cool while you get ready for a night on the town.

Guest Quarters

Your guests will not feel like stored baggage in a cramped berth that seems to be an afterthought with this very flexible guest cabin, which is located underneath the dinette. Cherry wood counter tops, three storage cabinets and tinted windows will make your guests feel right at home. The queen berth, that can be transformed into two twin beds with storage in-between insures your guests a good night sleep.

Power House

When you access the all white gel coated engine room you will feel that something is missing with the IPS System, just because of all the space where the transmission and drive shafts once sat. Eliminating the drive train gives you more access to maintain your Volvo engines or check fluid levels. You will also notice Carver’s attention to detail with all of the wires labeled and wire ties for security.

Performance on the Test Tack

On our test the pair of Volvo IPS 310 horsepower engines turned 3500 rpm for a notable top end speed of 35.3 mph. The 38 Super Sport cruised most economically at 3000 rpm traveling 28.5 mph for an impressive range of 343 miles. The IPS system is fingertip light, and allows the motoryacht to handle more like a sportboat when cruising at high speeds.

• Top speed for the Carver 38 Super Sport (2006-) is 35.3 mph (56.8 kph), burning 34.5 gallons per hour (gph) or 130.58 liters per hour (lph).


• Best cruise for the Carver 38 Super Sport (2006-) is 28.5 mph (45.9 kph), and the boat gets 1.14 miles per gallon (mpg) or 0.48 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 343 miles (552 kilometers).


• Tested power is 2 x 310-hp Volvo Penta IPS400.