Dehler 37 CR Information, Review, Specs

The Dehler 37 CR, also known as the Dehler 37 Cruising, was designed by the acclaimed Dutch maritime architect Ericus Gerhardus van de Stadt in the mid-1990s. Van de Stadt was a renowned yacht designer and a pioneer in industrial yacht building, whose firm E.G. van de Stadt yard was acquired by Dehler in 1978. Dehler, founded by brothers Willi and Heinz Dehler in 1963, had already established a reputation for blending performance, innovation, and comfort using glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GRP). The 37 CR's design reflects Dehler's commitment to "Smart Perfection," where craftsmanship and function enhance the quality of life at sea, a hallmark of their German engineering ethos during this period. The boat features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, designed for efficient hydrodynamics. A shallow draft wing keel option was also available. Approximately 60 to 70 units of the Dehler 37 CR were built during its production run from 1995 to 1997.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dehler 37 CR is known for its strong sailing capabilities, offering a balance of speed and ease of handling. With a reported sail area of 710 sq ft and a displacement of 12,346 lbs, it has a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.28. This ratio suggests a lively and responsive boat, indicative of good performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio stands at approximately 42.85% (5,291 lbs of ballast), a high figure that contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to wind and carry its sail plan effectively. The displacement to length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 214.1 (using long tons for displacement), places the Dehler 37 CR in the moderate displacement category, aligning with its design as a performance cruiser rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser. Owners often describe the Dehler 37 CR as a fast cruiser that is enjoyable to sail with few reported problems. It features a fractional rig, which contributes to smaller headsails, potentially making sail handling easier.

Accommodations and Layout

The Dehler 37 CR is lauded for its comfortable and solid construction, featuring a spacious interior designed for cruising comfort. The typical layout includes two double cabins and a good-sized head with a shower room. The saloon is particularly spacious, often featuring a large round seating area. A practical longitudinal galley is usually found within the saloon area. Owners report a pleasant and light interior, which can be further enhanced by features like strategic placement of skylights and hull windows to maximize daylight, a common design hallmark of Dehler yachts. The general finish quality is considered good, consistent with Dehler's reputation for well-built yachts and precision German engineering.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dehler 37 CR consistently praise its solid construction and comfort. Many have highlighted its excellent build quality and strong sailing capabilities, noting it's well-suited for both speed and ease on the water. The boat is frequently described as a "fast cruiser" that provides an enjoyable sailing experience. Some owners have noted that the boat's electric winches, if equipped, can be used for various functions, simplifying sail handling. A recurring point of discussion, though not necessarily a widespread problem, has been the potential need for reaming rudder bearings in older models. Overall, owners typically report having few problems with their Dehler 37 CR, and many have maintained their vessels in excellent condition over long periods.