Yachtcraft 37 Information, Review, Specs

The Yachtcraft 37 began its production in 1966, emerging as a kit version of the Islander 37. This initiative was part of Islander Yachts' broader strategy, particularly under Radlon Inc. which established the Yachtcraft subsidiary to offer kit versions of existing Islander models. The design itself, penned by Bruce King, reflected a philosophy focused on creating yachts that were both swift and practical for serious cruising.

Islander Yachts, originating from Joseph McGlasson's vision in the 1950s, became known for producing sturdy, well-designed cruising yachts with solid construction and comfortable interiors. The company's ethos during this era emphasized robust, capable vessels suitable for both coastal and offshore passages. While the Yachtcraft 37 kit production appears to have been relatively short-lived, with some sources indicating it ceased around 1967, the underlying Islander 37 hull design continued to be produced by Islander Yachts into the mid-1980s. Notable variations of the Islander 37 included a Motorsailer (MS) version and a Pilothouse model, both sharing the same fundamental hull form, underscoring the versatility and enduring appeal of King's original design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 37 feet and a waterline length of 28.33 feet, the Yachtcraft 37 is characterized by a moderate displacement hull, well-suited for a variety of sailing conditions. Her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.65 suggests a balanced performer, capable of moving effectively in lighter winds while still being manageable when the breeze picks up. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.357 indicates a decent level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 274.72 places her firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, prioritizing seaworthiness and comfort over outright light-air racing performance.

Owners frequently praise the Islander 37 hull for its solid build and good sailing characteristics, noting its ability to perform well in both moderate and relatively light air conditions. The spade rudder and fin keel configuration contribute to responsive handling and good directional stability. These attributes, combined with a reputation for solid construction, make the Yachtcraft 37 (and its Islander 37 counterpart) a capable vessel that inspires confidence, particularly on longer passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Yachtcraft 37, based on the Islander 37 design, typically features a well-conceived layout for cruising comfort. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design would have aimed for comfortable standing room in key areas. Bruce King's designs were known for their quality interiors, and the Islander 37 often featured attractive wood grain finishes that were well-maintained over time.

A common arrangement for a 37-foot cruiser of this vintage would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can often convert into berths, a galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage throughout the boat would have been designed for extended voyaging, including lockers, drawers, and shelving. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, common in cruising boats of the era to ensure airflow in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 37 (and by extension, the Yachtcraft 37) consistently laud its robust construction and the overall quality of its build, contributing to its lasting value and dedicated owner base. Many appreciate its solid sailing performance, highlighting its comfort and predictability in various sea states, a testament to Bruce King's design.

However, as with any classic sailboat, owners acknowledge that vessels of this age will inevitably require attention. Common areas of concern, though not necessarily design flaws, often relate to the aging of original components. While not a universal issue, some owners have noted specific maintenance points, such as the original factory prop location, which might have been modified on some boats, or the need for attention to older deck fittings that can eventually develop leaks, requiring re-bedding. Despite these expected maintenance challenges, the collective sentiment among owners remains overwhelmingly positive, affirming the Islander 37's reputation as a reliable and enjoyable cruising sailboat.