Bavaria 370 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bavaria 370 entered production in 1991, at a time when Bavaria Yachts was rapidly establishing itself as a leader in serial yacht manufacturing, driven by founders Winfried Herrmann and Josef Meltl. The company's design ethos, even then, centered on combining practical functionality with comfortable living spaces and reliable performance, aiming to balance sailing pleasure with onboard comfort. Axel Mohnhaupt's design for the 370 reflects this philosophy, focusing on creating a "robust and reliable sailing yacht" with "fine sailing characteristics."

While the production run spanned several years, the Bavaria 370 was notably offered with variations in its keel configuration, including both a standard deep fin keel and a shoal draft wing keel option, providing flexibility for different cruising grounds. The internal layout also saw a popular iteration known as the "Lagoon" version, which emphasized a spacious owner's cabin aft. This era saw Bavaria refining its assembly-line methods, allowing for consistent quality and the delivery of yachts that met the burgeoning demands of private owners and the charter market alike.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 38 feet and a waterline length of nearly 30 feet, the Bavaria 370 presents as a capable cruiser. Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.18 suggests a moderate performance profile, indicating she is well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than exhilarating light-air racing. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.35 indicates a solid, but not exceptionally stiff, platform, implying a design preference for comfortable motion over extreme upwind power in heavy weather. Calculated The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 271.19 places the Bavaria 370 firmly in the medium-heavy cruiser category, a characteristic that often contributes to a comfortable and stable ride in a seaway. Calculated

Anecdotal reports from sailors often describe the Bavaria 370 as a "very stable, good-natured ship" with "fine sailing characteristics." Owners frequently note its robust construction, contributing to a sense of security and a comfortable motion, making it a suitable vessel for longer passages. While she is not a pure performance racer, her handling is generally considered balanced and predictable, appealing to cruisers who prioritize stability and ease of management.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bavaria 370 is designed for comfort and practicality, reflecting the builder's focus on livability. The "Lagoon" version, in particular, is highlighted for its generous interior volume, featuring a spacious owner's cabin located in the aft section of the boat. This cabin is often complemented by a second comfortable cabin in the forepeak, and both typically include their own head and shower facilities, a significant amenity for a boat of this size.

The main saloon is described as "light and cozy" with a "practical layout," including a well-equipped galley and comfortable seating arrangements. The interior finish is characterized by a "high-quality finish" with "lots of beautiful teak throughout the ship," contributing to a warm and traditional nautical ambiance. Storage is generally ample for extended cruising, and the design typically ensures good ventilation, making the living spaces comfortable in various climates. The cockpit is also noted for its spaciousness, providing a comfortable area for sailing and entertaining.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bavaria 370 frequently express satisfaction with its robust construction and overall build quality, a hallmark of German engineering from Bavaria Yachts. The yacht is often praised as a "solid family ship with a beautiful finish," making it an appealing choice for those seeking a dependable cruiser. Its comfortable motion in a seaway and stable nature are consistently highlighted as strengths, instilling confidence in offshore conditions. Many consider it "perfect for a small group that wants to make long journeys," appreciating its ability to handle various sea states with equanimity.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted that boats equipped with in-mast roller furling mainsails, while convenient, can be "very inefficient" in terms of sail shape and ultimate performance, particularly in lighter winds. However, this is often seen as a trade-off for the added comfort and ease of handling provided by roller furling systems. The active community of Bavaria owners often discusses maintenance tips and modifications, underscoring the enduring appeal and practicality of the Bavaria 370 as a capable and cherished cruising yacht.