Endeavour 37 Yawl Information, Review, Specs

The Endeavour 37's journey began in 1977, marking the start of a production run that continued until 1983. Following the success of their Endeavour 32, the founders of Endeavour Yacht Corporation sought to expand their line. They acquired an abandoned 34-foot design by Ray Creekmore along the Miami River. Dennis Robbins, Endeavour's in-house production and design lead, skillfully modified this design by adding three feet to its midsection, giving birth to the popular Endeavour 37.

Initially conceived by Dennis Robbins as a "racer-cruiser," the Endeavour 37 firmly established itself as a dedicated cruising vessel. Endeavour Yacht Corp. aimed to produce straightforward, sturdy cruising boats that were ideally suited for the specific conditions of the Florida Keys and Bahama Islands, characterized by shallow drafts and strong, moderate hulls. The construction of these early models typically involved a combination of polyester resin, fiberglass woven roving, and multi-directional chopped strand fiber (MCSF), emphasizing robust build quality. While the provided specifications detail the yawl rig, the Endeavour 37 was also offered with various other rig configurations, including a sloop (with or without a bowsprit) and a ketch. Some early models were also identified as "Mark I," and owners sometimes opted for larger foretriangles to enhance sailing performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Endeavour 37, with its design focused on stability and comfort, exhibits characteristics typical of a heavy displacement cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 11.22, based on the calculated total sail area for the yawl rig, suggests moderate performance, particularly in lighter air. A higher Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.40 indicates good inherent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 330.6 signifies a heavier, more traditional cruising yacht rather than a light-displacement racer.

Owners frequently describe the Endeavour 37 as having a "heavy, rock solid hull," reinforcing its reputation for sturdy construction. While its sailing performance is often characterized as "marginal, especially upwind," it is widely appreciated for its ability to handle various sea states with stability. The yawl rig, specifically, is noted by some to offer "better comfort and stability when sailing downwind or on a broad reach," by spreading sail area and offering more flexibility in sail plans. The boat's "Florida boat" heritage is evident in its shoal draft and strong, moderate hull form, designed for practical cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Endeavour 37 was designed to maximize liveability and comfort for extended cruising. While specific headroom details are not widely documented, the layouts generally feature a sensible arrangement for a boat of its size. The Endeavour 37 was available with at least two distinct interior arrangements, known as "Plan A" and "Plan B," with variations within them. Plan A is often highlighted as a "great live-aboard layout," typically featuring a settee forward that can convert into a bunk. Plan B may have offered an enclosed, private cabin option.

General workmanship in the Endeavour 37 is considered good, with some owners particularly praising the quality of the trim joints. The deck layout is appreciated for its practicality, featuring wide and uncluttered side decks and a foredeck that is adequate for sail handling. Although some owners noted that the general build quality could be considered "cheaply and crudely built" in comparison to higher-end yachts, others found the interior layout to be a "dream." Overall, the accommodations prioritize functionality and comfort, making the Endeavour 37 a suitable vessel for cruising enthusiasts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Endeavour 37 consistently praise its robust and "rock solid hull," which contributes to a feeling of security and reliability at sea. The spacious and practical interior layouts are frequently highlighted as a strength, with Plan A, in particular, being valued for its live-aboard potential. Many owners find the Endeavour 37 to be an ideal choice for coastal cruising and island hopping, aligning with the builder's initial design philosophy for navigating areas like the Florida Keys and Bahamas.

However, common issues noted by owners include gelcoat crazing, a cosmetic condition that can be challenging to repair seamlessly on older boats. While generally well-built, some owners have reported potential core problems, which is a consideration for boats of this vintage. Additionally, as with many vessels of its age, original deck fittings may be prone to leaks over time, requiring re-bedding. Instances of rudder delamination have also been mentioned by some owners. Despite these potential maintenance concerns, the enduring community of Endeavour owners speaks to the fundamental appeal and reliability of these classic cruising yachts.