Graves 37 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Graves 37 begins around 1980, the year production commenced at Graves Yacht Yard. This period marked a significant transition for the historic Marblehead builder, as the yard was acquired by Marblehead Boatyard Associates in 1980, ensuring the continuation of its long-standing heritage. The Graves 37, officially launched in 1981, represents one of the earliest collaborations under this new chapter, bringing together the yard's traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary design from Jim Taylor. Taylor, who founded Jim Taylor Yacht Designs in 1978, quickly established a reputation for creating "hot selling performance cruiser/racer" yachts that were often "ahead of her time." The Graves 37, his 31st design, reflects this philosophy, aiming for a versatile vessel that could excel as a "classic production cruiser/racer" while also being suitable for offshore passages. Notably, this same design was also built as the Starflight 38 by Starflight Yachts of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, further cementing its well-regarded design.

The hull of the Graves 37 is constructed from solid fiberglass, offering a robust foundation, complemented by a solid fiberglass deck. She features a fin keel for efficient hydrodynamic performance and a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration known for providing good directional stability and protection for the rudder blade.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Graves 37's design ratios provide insight into its anticipated performance and handling characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.4, the Graves 37 suggests good performance in a variety of wind conditions, including lighter air, without being overly sensitive. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at a healthy 41.15%, indicating a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 251.7 places the Graves 37 squarely in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, striking a favorable balance between speed and load-carrying capacity. This combination of design elements aligns with her stated purpose as a fast ocean cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and structural integrity. Owners can expect a boat that is responsive and well-mannered, a hallmark of Jim Taylor's design philosophy which frequently emphasizes strong windward performance for his cruiser designs.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior layout details for the Graves 37 are not extensively documented online, insights can be drawn from her design brief and typical cruiser layouts of the era. The vessel was designed to offer comfort for extended cruising. A key feature is her substantial freshwater capacity of 100 US gallons (378 liters), underscoring her capabilities for longer voyages. Generally, a sailboat of this size and vintage would typically feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Given her designation as an "ocean cruiser," it is reasonable to expect practical storage solutions, adequate ventilation, and a finish quality consistent with a well-regarded American yard of that period, often featuring wood trim and durable fiberglass surfaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Detailed owner reviews and comprehensive online discussions specifically about the Graves 37 or its twin, the Starflight 38, are somewhat limited. However, the general consensus for designs from Jim Taylor of this era, particularly those intended as cruiser/racers, tends to highlight their robust construction and good sailing characteristics. Owners of similar Taylor designs often appreciate their balance, responsiveness, and ability to handle various sea conditions with confidence. While specific common problems or strengths unique to the Graves 37 are not widely documented, the enduring appeal of boats built by reputable yards to well-regarded designs suggests a generally positive ownership experience, particularly for those valuing seaworthiness and a solid sailing platform.