Cavalier 37 Information, Review, Specs

The Cavalier 37 emerged from Cavalier Yachts, a prominent production boatbuilder in the Southern Hemisphere, during a period when the company was known for its prolific output and high-quality fiberglass construction. The design, attributed to Laurie Davidson, reflects his penchant for creating "good-looking ocean racers that win". Davidson, a notable New Zealand designer, contributed to several successful Cavalier models, ensuring sound hydrodynamic principles and appealing aesthetics. The Cavalier 37 was produced for a relatively short run, from 1985 to 1990, during which Cavalier Yachts was an industrial marvel, often producing eleven different designs simultaneously and licensing their methods in Australia and Japan. While the standard configuration featured a fin keel and spade rudder, the boat was also available with a shallower keel option. One highly modified Cavalier 37 achieved particular fame as "Blackmore's First Lady," the vessel in which Kay Cottee completed a record-breaking solo, unassisted, non-stop circumnavigation, though this involved significant structural and rig modifications from the production model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cavalier 37 is characterized by its substantial build, contributing to a robust and comfortable motion at sea. With a Displacement/Length ratio around 497, she falls into the category of a heavy cruiser, suggesting a powerful and stable platform capable of handling challenging conditions with ease. A Ballast/Displacement ratio of approximately 36% further underscores her inherent stability, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze. Despite her weight, the Cavalier 37 boasts a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of 23.14, which indicates a strong performance potential, especially for a boat of her size and displacement. This suggests a lively performer in a range of wind conditions, balancing speed with comfort. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Cavalier 37 as a proven bluewater cruiser known for its performance sailing and ability to be sailed shorthanded, providing a good ride at a fair speed. Her fin keel and spade rudder contribute to good control and responsiveness, making her a capable vessel for both offshore passages and coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cavalier 37 is designed for comfortable extended cruising, featuring a "clever 2-cabin layout". The finish is notably in solid teak, presenting a classic and well-maintained aesthetic. The saloon is roomy, incorporating a dinette with a drop-down pedestal table that, along with additional panels, can convert into a substantial central berth. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the detailed specifications, the overall impression is one of a well-appointed and practical living space suitable for a crew on longer voyages. The boat is also noted for its large fuel (29 gallons) and water (95 gallons) capacities, which are significant advantages for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cavalier 37 frequently laud the yacht for its solid construction and excellent build quality, highlighting its reliability and seaworthiness. These vessels are renowned for being capable bluewater voyagers, a sentiment reinforced by their large fuel and water capacities, which are ideal for extended cruising. The enduring quality of these classic fiberglass yachts means they remain highly sought after on the brokerage market today, often forming strong communities among their owners who appreciate their robust nature and comfortable sailing characteristics. While specific common weaknesses are not broadly reported, the consistent praise points to a well-engineered and resilient design that has stood the test of time.