Princess 37 (Robb) Information, Review, Specs

The Princess 37's journey began in 1958, marking a period when Cheoy Lee Shipyard, a company with over 150 years of shipbuilding heritage, was actively diversifying into the production of elegant teak sailing and motor yachts in Hong Kong. 2, 3, 4, Builder Article Designed by the acclaimed naval architect Arthur Robb, who was also responsible for the iconic Robb 35, the Princess 37 reflects a design philosophy focused on creating reliable and robust vessels. 1, 2, 7, Builder Article While specific documentation on Robb's precise goals for the Princess 37 is limited, one review notes a "significantly more speedy hull design" compared to other similar sailboats, suggesting an intention for more than just a lumbering cruiser. This aligns with Cheoy Lee's reputation for high-quality production vessels and their emphasis on craftsmanship during this era of wooden boat building. There is no readily available information suggesting significant variations or different marks of the Princess 37 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 627 square feet and a displacement of 20,000 pounds, the Princess 37 exhibits characteristics of a traditional, heavy displacement cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) is approximately 13.67, indicating that she is not primarily designed for exceptional light-air performance but rather to carry her canvas effectively in more moderate to strong breezes. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 479.78, firmly places her in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway. This is further supported by a high Comfort Ratio of 51.97. Her long keel design contributes to excellent directional stability and a forgiving motion, particularly in rough conditions, though it may result in a larger turning radius compared to boats with fin keels. The yawl rig offers flexibility in sail handling, allowing for better balance and reefing options in varying wind conditions. The hull speed is approximately 6.9 knots. Despite its heavy displacement, the design is also noted for being "slimmer than 97% of all other designs," implying a relatively narrow beam which can contribute to a more easily driven hull shape through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom details are not explicitly provided, the Princess 37 was designed to offer comfortable cruising accommodations. Grounded search indicates typical layouts included a double berth, often located amidships, and the capacity for up to five berths distributed across two cabins. This arrangement suggests a conventional interior with a V-berth forward, a main saloon area, and potentially a quarter berth or a dedicated amidships cabin. Given Cheoy Lee's emphasis on elegant wooden yachts during this period, the interior finish would likely feature substantial use of wood trim and joinery, providing a classic and warm atmosphere. Owners often refer to these vessels as having "lots of character," which points to a traditional, well-crafted interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Princess 37 often express a deep affection for their vessels, with one owner describing their boat as "much loved." The existence of owner groups for Arthur Robb designs, including the Princess 37, highlights a dedicated community around these classic yachts. Common strengths frequently praised by Cheoy Lee owners include the solid construction and a comfortable motion in a seaway, traits that are generally attributed to the builder's legacy of robust, finely crafted vessels. However, as with many vintage sailboats, potential owners should be aware of challenges that can arise from older systems and original construction. Some owners have noted that parts of the engine can be difficult to access, and the general acquisition of old boats comes with "lots of hidden problems" that may require restoration or maintenance. These considerations underscore the importance of thorough surveys and an understanding of the ongoing care required for a classic wooden boat.