1984 Custom 38 Custom

Welcome aboard Caribbean Express — a timeless blend of history, craftsmanship, and inspired design.

Caribbean Express is a step into custom built boat building world. The current owner built this boat himself in 1984 in the Nordin shipyard. 

A piece of craftsmanship that is lasting until today where she sits in Dania beach ready for her new owner to see her for what she really is. Everything is thought out perfectly and is functional! Not many boats of today are made that way. This 38 custom was originally powered by twin Mercury 300hp two stroke outboards where it was eventually re-powered with Mercruiser inboard engines and then repowered again with the current engines. 

HULL CONSTRUCTION

• 14.5° V-Hull with four lifting strakes for superior planing and stability.
• Built using Klegecell, a closed-cell foam core. Scored every 1½ inches horizontally and vertically. Outer and inner hulls are bonded with fiberglass, forming a honeycomb structure for unmatched strength and lightweight durability.
• A 4-foot extension was added to the stern by Nordin Shipyard to achieve an optimal 8-degree angle on the propeller shafts. The fuel tank was also relocated aft, behind the engines, to improve overall weight distribution. These upgrades significantly enhanced performance. The boat now runs efficiently with two sets of propellers—one optimized for short-range speed, and the other for long-range cruising and improved maneuverability.

Hardware and Features:

• All cleats are thru-bolted and reinforced with stainless steel backing plates—built to handle real-world use and stand the test of time. Inside, every cabinet and storage compartment was designed not just for convenience, but for longevity—solid construction, smooth operation, and a layout that holds up beautifully, year after year. Everything on board was built with durability and purpose in mind.

INTERIOR:

• Custom Ribbon Mahogany cabinetry and interior finish. 
• Cabinets conceal all major appliances including: Sink, Trash Compactor, Microwave, Television, Cabinets for stylish Credenza layout
• Electric heating system throughout the interior to make sure the boat stays comfortable no matter the season. Whether it’s a chilly morning at anchor or a cool evening after a long run, the warmth is steady and quiet—perfect for extending the cruising season or just making things feel like home.Ask ChatGPT

Storage: 

• Full underfloor storage in the saloon housing the fresh water tank, holding tank and all spare parts.
• Queen-size V-Berth with under-bed storage and a built-in closet.-

Visibility & Ventilation:

• 360-degree visibility from the lower helm.
• Full-length sliding side windows to capture breeze when docked.

NAVIGATION & ELECTRONICS:

• Garmin GPS systems (multiple units)
• Full Instrumentation Panel, including:
• Automatic Halon fire suppression system in engine room

Engines and Running Gear (THE BEST OF THE BEST) Both engines run perfectly and preform!

• Twin 540 cubic inch Merlins (~200 hours each)
• Heavy-duty Chevrolet Big Block configuration
• Vortec Supercharged
• Direct Port Fuel Injection
• Computer-controlled ignition system
• Tug boat sized engine struts (over built for durability)
• Internal Components Include: Steel crankshaft, H-beam rods, Full-floating wrist pins, J&E custom blower pistons, Custom Lunati torque camshaft, Crane roller rockers, Exhaust: 4” x 4” side exhausts

Transmissions: Beefed-up BorgWarner units with extra clutch discs

Shafts & Props: Monel shafts with two sets of props:

• Smaller props: For short runs and easy docking
• Larger props: Designed for 1,000-mile range runs

A full hydraulic lift hatch provides access to the entire cockpit engine bay

HISTORY & MAINTENANCE:

Caribbean Express was taken to a shipyard (08/01/2025) where a routine bottom job was completed, 2 thick layers of bottom paint was applied to all surfaces including metals. Zincs were replaced on all grounding metals.

Major Refits:

• Three major refits completed over the vessel’s lifetime
• Most recent refit completed on July 29, 2025
• Cost of most recent refit: $128,954.