Delphia 37.3 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Delphia 37.3 in 2010 marked another significant offering from Delphia Yachts, a company that by then had become Poland's largest manufacturer of sailing boats, rooted in a tradition spanning over two decades. The vessel was designed by Andrzej Skrzat, a Polish naval architect known for his work with Delphia. Skrzat's primary philosophy for the 37.3 was to deliver "as spacious yacht as possible in the same price range as the competition," a goal achieved through clever design elements such as a wide beam extending far aft. During this period, Delphia Yachts cultivated a reputation for crafting luxury vessels, prioritizing comfort and meticulous attention to detail, an ethos that is clearly reflected in the 37.3. The Delphia 37.3 was primarily offered with a centerboard and spade rudder configuration, allowing for a variable draft suitable for exploring shallower waters, ranging from a minimum of 2.53 feet to a maximum of 6.4 feet when the board is fully deployed. Fixed keel versions were also available, offering different draft and ballast specifications for those preferring a more traditional setup. Production of Delphia sailboats, including models like the 37.3, ceased as of September 1, 2019, as the shipyard shifted its focus to motor and electric yachts following its acquisition by Groupe Beneteau Source: Builder article.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Delphia 37.3 is designed to provide a comfortable and stable sailing experience, well-suited for coastal and family cruising. With a reported sail area of 679.2 square feet and a displacement of 14,551 pounds, her Sail Area to Displacement ratio calculates to approximately 18.17. This ratio suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating that the boat should be capable of moving efficiently without excessive wind. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at about 31.8% (using the 4,630 lbs of ballast for the centerboard version), is relatively conservative for a monohull of this size. However, in a centerboard design, a portion of the boat's stability is derived from the deep foil of the deployed centerboard, allowing for a shallower fixed keel or internal ballast, while still providing good stability when the board is down. Anecdotal evidence from sailors suggests the Delphia 37.3 possesses "excellent sailing characteristics" and is a "comfortable and safe" vessel to handle. While the exact waterline length (LWL) for the Delphia 37.3 is not consistently specified in readily available data, making a precise Displacement to Length ratio calculation challenging, her overall design emphasizes a balanced and predictable motion, contributing to a pleasant experience in various sea states. Owners and reviewers highlight her solid construction and efficient deck layout, which contribute to confident handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Delphia 37.3 is a key highlight, crafted with a focus on maximizing comfort and space. Designed by Birgit Schnaase, the interior is described as "tasteful" and offers a "light and spacious" ambiance. The design goal of creating "as spacious yacht as possible" is evident, with a notable high beam that extends well into the stern, enhancing the living areas. The layout typically features a large saloon, providing ample seating with both L-shaped and straight settees arranged around a central table. The Delphia 37.3 commonly offers a two-cabin configuration, boasting "very spacious sleeping cabins and spaces," ensuring privacy and comfort for overnight stays. The galley, often L-shaped and located to starboard, is described as "high specification," hinting at good amenities for meal preparation. Overall, the interior is characterized by plentiful headroom and thoughtful arrangements, contributing to a comfortable and functional living space for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Delphia 37.3 generally express high satisfaction with the vessel, evidenced by a strong rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 65 reviews. Consistent feedback highlights the boat's "roomy and comfortable" nature, making it well-suited for extended periods aboard. Many appreciate the solid construction and reliable performance, noting that the boat exhibits "few problems...despite having a hard life". The spacious sleeping cabins, comfortable deck, and cockpit layout are frequently praised aspects of the design. While some forum discussions suggest that Delphia 37.3s might be less common in certain regions, those who own them appear to be quite pleased with their choice, emphasizing the boat's suitability as a reliable and enjoyable family cruiser.