Yachtcraft 37 MS Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Yachtcraft 37 MS is intrinsically linked to Islander Yachts, a California-based builder known for durable fiberglass cruising vessels. Under the stewardship of Radlon Inc., which acquired Islander Yachts in 1971, a new subsidiary named Yachtcraft was established. This venture specialized in offering kit versions of Islander models, often those that had been discontinued from standard production. The Yachtcraft 37 MS thus emerged from this period, drawing its foundation from the proven Islander 37 hull and the Islander 37 Pilot House design.

The design itself was penned by Bruce King, a prolific naval architect who also contributed numerous designs to Islander Yachts. King's design philosophy emphasized that the enduring appeal and value of a yacht derive from a harmonious blend of aesthetic design and practical integration of modern technology and materials. The Yachtcraft 37 MS, with its pilot house configuration, reflects this approach, aiming to offer enhanced protection and comfort in various conditions. Its production as a kit vessel in 1974 allowed owners to customize the interior finish and systems, a common practice during that era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Yachtcraft 37 MS, with its generous dimensions and robust build, offers a sailing experience characteristic of a motorsailer. With a displacement of 14,900 lbs and a length overall of 36.5 feet, she carries a substantial presence on the water. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.66 suggests a moderate performer under sail, indicating a boat that appreciates a decent breeze to truly come alive but remains capable in lighter conditions.

The vessel's ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.40 indicates good inherent stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a respectable amount of wind without excessive heeling, contributing to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. However, her displacement to length ratio, a notably high 611, firmly places her in the category of heavy, traditional cruisers, emphasizing stability and load-carrying capacity over nimble, high-performance sailing.

Anecdotal owner accounts suggest the Islander 37 hull, upon which the Yachtcraft 37 MS is based, is generally well-built and handles well in medium to high winds. While capable of offshore passages, some owners note that the combination of her smaller fin keel, spade rudder, and pilot house design means she is not intended for the most extreme heavy weather conditions, emphasizing her role as a comfortable cruiser rather than a dedicated storm boat. Overall, she is praised as a "steady motor sailor" that combines sailing ability with the benefits of a robust auxiliary engine.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Yachtcraft 37 MS, particularly given its "MS" (Motorsailer) designation and pilot house configuration, is designed for comfort and extended living aboard. While specific detailed layouts can vary due to its original kit boat nature, the pilot house itself is a defining feature, offering excellent visibility and an inside steering station, which is highly valued for navigating in inclement weather or cooler climates. Owners frequently praise the "fantastic headroom" throughout the cabin, contributing to a more spacious and livable environment below deck.

Typically, a boat of this size and type would feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a galley, and a head compartment. The emphasis on a comfortable cruising experience implies ample storage for provisions and personal gear. The solid construction noted in the hull and deck also extends to the interior, suggesting a robust foundation for the living spaces. The design of the pilot house also often allows for a "big cockpit" aft, enhancing outdoor living and entertaining space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Yachtcraft 37 MS, and its sister model the Islander 37 Pilot House, generally express satisfaction with the boat's solid construction and seaworthiness for cruising. The hulls are often regarded as well-built, reportedly avoiding many of the common structural issues found in vessels of similar vintage. The ability to sail effectively in a range of wind conditions, from light to medium-high, is a frequently cited strength, affirming her capabilities as a sailing vessel despite her motorsailer designation.

The pilot house design is a significant draw for many owners, offering protection from the elements and a comfortable inside steering position, making her particularly well-suited for cruising in regions like the Pacific Northwest where cooler, wetter conditions are common. While generally praised for their robust nature, some discussions among owners suggest an awareness of the design's limits in extremely heavy weather, particularly concerning the fin keel and spade rudder configuration in concert with the high profile of the pilot house. However, for her intended purpose as a comfortable and capable cruising motorsailer, the Yachtcraft 37 MS is often regarded as a reliable and enjoyable vessel.