Capri 37 (Catalina) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Catalina Capri 37 dates back to 1990, when Catalina Yachts, under the guidance of founder Frank Butler, introduced this model. Catalina Yachts has a long-standing reputation for building "good boats" that are "straightforward, offer price for value, are solid and honest," a philosophy that extends to their more performance-oriented designs. The Capri 37's hull originates from an earlier Nelson Marek International Offshore Rule (IOR) design, providing a foundation for a competitive racing platform. However, it was adapted with a flush deck specifically to meet the requirements of the Congressional Cup match racing series, an annual competition sailed exclusively in Catalina 37 yachts. Frank Butler himself played a pivotal role, donating the fleet of Catalina 37s to the Long Beach Sailing Foundation, which maintains them for the Congressional Cup and other high-level racing events. There is also a taller rig version of the Catalina 37, which offers enhanced performance capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (ratio_sa_disp) of approximately 19.34, the Catalina Capri 37 indicates a design aimed at reasonable performance, suggesting it should perform adequately in lighter winds while still being manageable as the breeze builds. Its ballast to displacement ratio (ratio_bal_disp) of about 0.42 points to a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining its sail plan. The displacement to length ratio (ratio_disp_lwl) is around 254, placing it in the moderate to heavy displacement category. This suggests a boat that is robust and capable of handling various sea states with a comfortable motion, rather than a light, ultra-performance speedster.

Owners and sailors familiar with the Catalina Capri 37 generally describe it as a solid and dependable boat, though some note it may not be the fastest in its class, particularly in light air, with some describing it as "dog slow" in certain conditions and rarely getting out of displacement mode. However, its design emphasis on match racing means it is built for close-quarters maneuvering and precise handling, essential qualities for competitive sailing. The spade rudder contributes to responsive steering and agility, crucial for tight racing situations. It is often praised for offering good performance capabilities upwind and downwind, making it a capable club racer.

Accommodations and Layout

The Catalina Capri 37, primarily designed for racing, features a more spartan interior compared to Catalina's traditional cruising models, with a bare or minimal interior. Its flush deck design, while beneficial for crew movement during racing, typically translates to reduced headroom and fewer interior amenities below. Reviews and discussions suggest that the focus for the Capri 37's interior was functionality over luxury. While specific details on the typical interior arrangement are less documented than for Catalina's dedicated cruisers, it is understood that the layout would prioritize bunks for crew rest and basic necessities, rather than extensive galley or salon space. Owners looking for a comfortable cruising yacht might find the accommodations to be basic, reflecting its original purpose as a dedicated racing platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Catalina Capri 37 often value its solid construction and its heritage as a purpose-built racing yacht. The robust nature of Catalina's fiberglass construction, including a dedicated structural grid and a full molded fiberglass hull liner, ensures durability. Its role in the Congressional Cup series highlights its capabilities as a reliable and competitive boat for match racing. While some forum discussions point to it not being a high-performance boat in terms of speed, especially compared to lighter designs, it is appreciated for its strong build and value, which aligns with Catalina's overall design philosophy. Owners looking for an economical club racer or a straightforward day sailor often find the Capri 37 appealing, particularly for "around the boys fun" and club racing. The strong community around Catalina yachts, supported by forums and owner associations, provides a valuable resource for maintenance and shared experiences.