Apache 37 (Chris-Craft) Information, Review, Specs

The Chris-Craft Apache 37 was introduced in 1966, with its design by Sparkman & Stephens originating in 1965. Production continued until 1970, with approximately 80 units built. This era marked Chris-Craft's commitment to fiberglass construction, a significant shift from their earlier wooden powerboats, and their collaboration with Sparkman & Stephens for all their sailboat models. During this period, well-known yachtsman Cornelius Shields was a majority shareholder in Chris-Craft and played a role in guiding the company's sailboat initiatives, including providing specifications for other Sparkman & Stephens designs. The Apache 37 featured a fiberglass solid hull and deck, indicative of Chris-Craft's modern manufacturing ethos at the time. While no major MkI or MkII variations are commonly noted, some individual boats may have undergone significant factory modifications, such as the installation of a new foam core deck in 1970 on at least one vessel, suggesting potential updates or repairs during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total sail area of approximately 594 square feet and a displacement of 13,022 pounds, the Apache 37 exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 17.12. This ratio suggests that the boat offers moderate performance in lighter winds, capable of moving efficiently without being overly sensitive to every puff. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 0.407 indicates good stiffness and stability, allowing the Apache 37 to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 321.5 positions the Apache 37 in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a solid feel and momentum through the water rather than a light, planing hull.

The Apache 37 is equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a combination that generally provides excellent maneuverability. Owners and reviewers have often described the Apache 37 as a "nice sailing boat" for its era, offering "reasonable speed" and a balanced feel at the helm. Some models were even built and rigged with an extensive racing history, underscoring its design for performance.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Chris-Craft Apache 37, with its 37-foot length overall and a beam of 10.19 feet, was designed to offer comfortable cruising accommodations. The interior typically features a layout conducive to extended stays on the water, often including a V-berth forward, a main salon, a galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Descriptions and drawings from the era suggest thoughtful arrangements with berths, a sink, and water tanks integrated into the design. The general finish quality, characteristic of Chris-Craft's reputation, would have involved a blend of fiberglass and some wood trim, offering a classic nautical aesthetic for the time. Owners have praised the overall solid construction, suggesting a robust interior that has stood the test of time, with some even undertaking extensive refits of the joinery to modernize or customize their boats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Chris-Craft Apache 37 frequently praise its robust build quality and its comfortable sailing characteristics, particularly its ability to handle various sea states with a stable motion. The Sparkman & Stephens design is consistently highlighted as a strong point, contributing to the boat's solid performance and appeal. Common points of discussion among owners sometimes revolve around the age of the original systems, as with many vintage vessels. A recurring topic has been the potential for the original deck, often constructed with a foam core, to experience issues, with at least one reported instance of a boat returning to the Chris-Craft factory for a new deck installation in 1970. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the Apache 37 is generally regarded as a well-built and capable sailboat that, with proper care, continues to provide rewarding sailing experiences for its owners.