Ericson 37 Information, Review, Specs

The Ericson 37 was produced for a brief but impactful period, from 1973 to 1975. During this time, Ericson Yachts, under the guiding hand of Bruce King, had firmly established its reputation for producing durable fiberglass sailboats. King's design philosophy, which prioritized balanced sailing characteristics, comfortable interiors, and pleasing lines, was evident in the Ericson 37. Ericson’s manufacturing ethos, characterized by solid construction and effective adoption of fiberglass techniques, ensured that their vessels, including the 37, were built to last. While primarily conceived as a masthead sloop, the Ericson 37 was explicitly designed to the IOR 1 Ton rule, an influential metric in offshore racing during that period. Discussions among owners sometimes allude to a "cutter" configuration, potentially referencing the double-head rig common on IOR boats of that era, aimed at optimizing sail area for various conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ericson 37's design specifications translate into a vessel known for its stability and solid performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.44, she exhibits a balanced sail plan, indicating competent performance across a range of wind conditions, rather than being optimized solely for light air. Her impressive ballast-to-displacement ratio of 50% is particularly significant, contributing to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to strong winds and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. Weighing in with a displacement-to-length ratio of roughly 308.5, the Ericson 37 falls into the heavier end of the cruising yacht spectrum, suggesting a traditional, full-bodied hull shape that prioritizes comfort and offshore capability over extreme light-air speed.

Anecdotal reports from owners generally praise the Ericson 37 as a capable and comfortable boat, particularly valuing its spacious foredeck and well-arranged cockpit. However, some owners have noted that the original rudder can become less effective when the boat heels beyond 15 degrees, leading to common modifications for a deeper rudder to improve steering control in heavy air. Despite this, the boat's overall sailing characteristics are described as seaworthy and capable, a reflection of its robust build and the design's focus on offshore reliability.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Ericson 37 offers a practical and comfortable interior, designed for extended stays. With a maximum headroom of 6.25 feet, the cabin feels reasonably spacious for a boat of its vintage and size. The typical layout provides ample sleeping capacity, often configured with four primary berths and additional space for four more guests, alongside a well-equipped galley and a dedicated head compartment. Owners frequently comment on the generous sleeping areas available within the vessel. Consistent with Ericson's reputation, the interior would feature a solid finish, likely incorporating a blend of wood trim and robust fiberglass components, emphasizing durability and a classic marine aesthetic characteristic of 1970s boatbuilding. Storage is generally considered adequate for cruising needs, and ventilation is typically provided through deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

The Ericson 37 enjoys a dedicated following, with owners often praising its robust construction and overall value. Many consider it "a hell of a lot of boat for the money," reflecting its solid build quality and seaworthy nature. Owners consistently highlight its comfort and stability, even noting that it was a capable racing platform "back in the day." The strong community around Ericson yachts, fostered through platforms like EricsonYachts.org, facilitates shared knowledge and support among past and present owners.

While largely lauded for its strengths, a frequently mentioned area for improvement by owners pertains to the original rudder design, which some find can lose effectiveness when the boat is significantly heeled. As a result, deepening the rudder has become a common modification to enhance control in challenging conditions. Despite such minor points, the collective sentiment underscores the Ericson 37 as a well-regarded classic, offering a compelling blend of sailing performance and liveability for cruising enthusiasts.