Dockrell 37 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Dockrell 37 commenced in 1981 by Dockrell Yachts Ltd. in Tavistock, Devon, England. The genesis of this model is rooted in a strategic decision by John Dockrell, founder of Dockrell Yachts, to acquire the redundant moulds for the Sparkman & Stephens S&S38 around 1972., 8] This move allowed Dockrell to leverage the design prowess of the renowned American naval architecture firm, Sparkman & Stephens, known for their influential and performance-oriented yacht designs.

While the original S&S38 provided the foundational hull form, Dockrell Yachts, under John Dockrell's direction, modified the design, notably incorporating a centerboard keel. This innovative feature, described as a lightweight plate with a simple block and tackle for lifting, retracts into a long, shallow fin keel. This modification aimed to provide the versatility of sailing in both coastal and inland waters, a particular benefit for shallower areas like the East Coast of the USA, where many Dockrell boats were exported. The builder, Dockrell Yachts, cultivated a reputation for producing sturdy, practical cruising yachts that offered a comfortable and forgiving sailing experience, an ethos evident in the design of the Dockrell 37. The yacht is typically rigged as a cutter, a configuration that breaks the sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, often favored for offshore sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dockrell 37, with its carefully balanced design ratios, offers a commendable sailing experience for a cruising yacht of its size. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.5 indicates a moderate performer, suggesting she will be adequately powered in light to moderate winds but may require a bit more breeze to truly come alive. However, her substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 48% points to a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to a blow and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ratio also contributes to good righting capability. With a displacement-to-length ratio of around 190, the Dockrell 37 falls into the moderately light to medium displacement category for its length, implying a reasonably nimble and responsive hull form that is "slimmer than 86% of all other designs" in its comparative class, suggesting a speedier hull.

Anecdotal evidence suggests the Dockrell 37 is generally a good seaboat, though its performance, while adequate, may not match the more race-oriented S&S designs. Owners have noted that the boat can exhibit poor control when going astern. The centerboard keel provides excellent performance and the versatility of a shallow draft, making it suitable for a variety of cruising grounds.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dockrell 37, with a maximum headroom of 6.17 feet, provides comfortable living space for its length. Data While specific details of the original interior layout can vary depending on individual boat modifications and the build year, grounded search and owner discussions suggest a practical, six-berth layout designed for cruising comfort. Owners have undertaken projects such as reupholstering seating and cushions and replacing headlinings, indicating that while the core layout is functional, cosmetic updates are common on these classic yachts. The interior typically features a V-berth forward, a saloon area, a galley, and a head. Some examples may have had their hull interiors repaired and are described as being in exceptional condition.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dockrell 37 generally praise its strong, well-built construction. They are often regarded as good value for their size and capabilities, especially given their robust nature. The Dockrell Yacht Owners Association, an active online community, serves as a hub for current owners to share information and discuss maintenance, underscoring a strong collective appreciation for these vessels. Common maintenance considerations noted by owners include potential leaks around windows and hatches, suggesting these areas may require re-bedding over time. Owners have also documented projects such as stripping hulls for new coatings and ordering new rigging. While some owners report challenges with control when going astern, the overall consensus points to a sturdy and reliable cruising yacht.