Grand Soleil 37 (J&J) Information, Review, Specs

The Grand Soleil 37 emerged from Cantiere del Pardo's rich tradition of yacht building, which commenced in 1973. During the period of the 37's production from 1996 to 2007, Cantiere del Pardo was known for embracing innovative technologies and high-quality materials, solidifying its reputation for high-performance yachts. While J&J Design may have been less familiar to some American reviewers at the time, their collaboration with Grand Soleil produced a "handsome design" for the 37, leaning towards a clean and functional aesthetic.

The design philosophy behind the Grand Soleil 37 aimed to create a boat that was both fast for cruising and comfortable for extended stays, a characteristic emphasized by its "fast cruising yacht" description. Throughout its production run, the Grand Soleil 37 offered flexibility to owners, including a standard deep draft of 6.56 feet and a shallower draft option at 5.25 feet. [Notes in Furthermore, the model was available with two distinct sail plans—a cruising version and an IMS (International Measurement System) version—and there was an option for a taller rig, particularly favored in lighter wind regions like those outside of San Francisco.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Grand Soleil 37 is designed to offer a dynamic sailing experience, striking a balance between speed and stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.98, she demonstrates excellent potential for performance, particularly excelling in light to moderate winds where her generous sail plan can efficiently propel her. This suggests that the boat is relatively light for its sail area, contributing to its "fast cruising" capabilities.

Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 32.8% indicates a moderate level of stiffness, providing a solid feel and decent stability, though not as stiff as some dedicated offshore racers. This translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway, suitable for cruising. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 217.65 places the Grand Soleil 37 in the realm of moderate performance cruisers, reinforcing its dual nature as a yacht capable of both comfortable passage-making and engaging performance. Anecdotal accounts describe the sailing performance as "exceptional" in light to moderate winds, with the boat proving to be "very well balanced." Owners can expect the Grand Soleil 37 to cruise fast, with its full potential available to those who wish to explore its racing capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on performance, the Grand Soleil 37 offers a well-appointed and thoughtfully designed interior. The boat was available with two primary interior layouts. The popular two-cabin "owner's version" provides a comfortable arrangement suitable for a family of four, featuring spacious accommodations ideal for summer cruises or race weeks. Alternatively, a three-cabin, one-head layout was also available, maximizing berths for larger crews or more guests.

While specific details on material finishes are less documented, Grand Soleil yachts are generally known for their quality construction and elegant Italian design. The interior is described as "beautifully designed," effectively balancing comfort with functionality. Typical arrangements would include a comfortable salon area, a well-equipped galley, and berths forward and aft. Updates to interior curtains and cushions are sometimes noted in reviews of pre-owned models, suggesting the original quality allowed for long-term use with periodic refreshers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Grand Soleil 37 generally express satisfaction with its blend of classic design, elegant aesthetics, and robust performance as a fast cruising yacht. While some individual experiences regarding sailing performance may vary, the consensus points towards the boat's strong potential for both swift cruising and competitive sailing. Many appreciate the build quality inherent to Cantiere del Pardo, which contributes to the yacht's enduring appeal. The Grand Soleil 37 is often lauded for its ability to cruise quickly, providing an engaging experience for those who seek to push its limits.