Irwin 37-2 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Irwin 37-2 begins in 1976, with its production continuing through 1982 with later iterations such as the 37-5. Designed by Ted Irwin, who started building boats at 15, the vessel reflects his commitment to constructing a "good boat for the money". Irwin Yachts, established in 1966, was known for its fiberglass construction techniques, which were typical for production boats of the 1970s, 18]. The company's design philosophy emphasized dual-purpose cruiser-racers and interiors that appealed broadly, particularly to women, featuring a "Production Boat Contemporary" decor. The addition of a bowsprit to the 37-2, distinguishing it from the earlier Irwin 37-1, enhanced its sail plan and profile, a design element carried forward in later models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 20,000 pounds and a length at the waterline of 30 feet, the Irwin 37-2 is categorized as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, indicated by its Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 330.6. Its Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of around 12.77 suggests it is not primarily designed for high performance in light winds, but rather for steady cruising. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.39, with 7,800 pounds of ballast, points to moderate stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent breeze. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its precise handling are limited, owners generally note that the Irwin 37 offers a roomy, comfortable cruising experience, prioritizing comfort at anchor and livability over outright sailing performance. The boat's fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to its directional stability and control. The theoretical hull speed for the Irwin 37-2 is 7.34 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Irwin 37-2 is notably praised for its expansive layout, remarkable livability, and significant storage capacity for a vessel of its size. Owners report ample headroom throughout the interior, making for a comfortable living space. Typically, the interior features a teak finish. The design frequently includes two cabins and two heads, providing privacy and convenience, especially for extended cruising or accommodating guests. The general arrangement often comprises a V-berth forward, a main salon with seating and a galley, and an aft cabin, particularly in center cockpit configurations. The focus on interior comfort aligns with Ted Irwin's design philosophy which prioritized appealing and practical living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Irwin 37-2 for its robust construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and overall suitability as a liveaboard or extended cruiser. The generous interior space and storage are consistently highlighted as major strengths, making the boat a popular choice for those seeking comfort and practicality. However, as with many production boats of its vintage, some common issues have been noted. The hull-to-deck joint has been a recurring area of discussion among Irwin owners. Additionally, given their age, many Irwin 37-2s on the used market may require significant refits, including interior overhauls, bulkheads, and engine work, indicating that while the underlying design is solid, deferred maintenance can be a factor. Owners also mention that older Irwin boats might exhibit "print through," a cosmetic issue where fiberglass weave patterns become visible through the gelcoat. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the Irwin 37-2 continues to appeal to those seeking a reliable and well-designed cruising sailboat that offers substantial comfort and capability at an accessible price point.