Gib'sea 372 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gib'sea 372 emerged from Gibert Marine's shipyard in Marans during a period when the company, founded by Olivier Gibert, was known for producing fiberglass sailing yachts ranging from 7 to 12 meters. The builder's ethos, as highlighted in its history, focused on comfort and practicality in its designs, a characteristic evident in the 372. While the company's early vision included an orientation towards long-distance racing, Gib'sea quickly became renowned for its cruising focus.

The collaboration with Michel Joubert and Bernard Nivelt, a prominent design duo in French yachting, ensured the Gib'sea 372 benefited from their expertise in crafting seaworthy and efficient hulls. The 372 was produced for a relatively short run, from 1987 to 1991, with 116 units built. During its production, variations included both a standard deep draft and a shoal draft option, offering flexibility for different cruising grounds. Additionally, a distinction was made between versions intended for the charter market and more comprehensively appointed "owner's versions," which often featured a roomier aft cabin and enhanced heads facilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gib'sea 372 is characterized by a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 190.59, categorizing it as a medium-light displacement vessel for its size. This suggests a relatively easily driven hull, contributing to its reputation as a reasonably good performer. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio of around 16.46, the 372 offers a balanced sail plan, indicating competent performance across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or demanding in heavy gusts.

The boat features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration known for a good balance of directional stability and maneuverability. While its ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 36% might suggest a slightly less stiff boat compared to some dedicated offshore designs, the Gib'sea 372 is generally regarded as stable and stiff, capable of standing up to a reasonable breeze. Its hull speed is calculated at 7.4 knots, reflecting a capable cruising speed. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Gib'sea 372 offers predictable handling and a comfortable motion in a seaway, aligning with Gib'sea's overall design philosophy of creating user-friendly cruising yachts.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gib'sea 372 was designed with the brand's emphasis on space and comfort, making it well-suited for extended cruising or charter operations. Typical layouts found on the 372 include three cabins, along with a spacious saloon area. The "owner's version" was particularly noted for offering a generous aft cabin and potentially more refined finishings compared to its charter counterparts, which might have prioritized maximum berthing.

While detailed specifications on maximum headroom are not consistently available, the design aimed for ample interior volume, a hallmark of Gib'sea yachts. The use of lightweight joinery, particularly in the charter variants, provided functional yet durable interiors. Owners can expect a conventional arrangement featuring a V-berth forward, a main saloon with seating and a dining table, a galley, and typically one or more aft cabins, complemented by a head compartment. Storage solutions are usually ample, catering to the needs of cruisers. Overall, the interior design supports the boat's primary purpose as a comfortable and practical cruising sailboat, reflecting the robust and user-friendly characteristics that made Gib'sea popular.