Sun Odyssey 37 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sun Odyssey 37, first built in 1998, replaced the popular Sun Odyssey 36.2 and was a notable success for Jeanneau. Designed by Jacques Fauroux, the boat was conceived as a cruiser and charter boat, incorporating modern design approaches with smooth lines in its deck layout. Jeanneau, with a history of embracing new technologies since its founding in 1957, transitioned early from wood to fiberglass and established itself as a significant force in sailboat manufacturing with models like the Sangria in the 1970s. This commitment to robust fiberglass construction is evident in the Sun Odyssey 37, which features a solid fiberglass hull and deck. The shipyard's focus on creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities, particularly for the cruising market, heavily influenced the design goals for the Sun Odyssey range. While the Sun Odyssey 37 shares its basic hull design with the more performance-oriented Sun Fast 37, it was specifically tailored for comfortable cruising. The model saw various iterations during its production, often sold under different names, including the Moorings 37 in the charter trade, and was available with either one or two aft cabins.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37 is characterized as a performance-oriented cruiser, offering a balance between speed and comfort. With a displacement of 14,175 lbs and a waterline length of 31.75 feet, the boat has a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 198. This places it firmly in the medium-displacement category, suggesting a boat that offers a good blend of speed and comfortable motion without being overly heavy or ultralight.

Its sail area to displacement ratio of about 20.1 indicates strong light-air performance, allowing it to move well even in lighter breezes. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 31.4% contributes to its stability, although some sources suggest it might exhibit a tendency to heel, particularly upwind, which is not uncommon for a cruising-focused design. Despite this, the keel/ballast ratio is noted to improve sailing stability. The Sun Odyssey 37 is generally regarded as easy to handle, even for a small crew, and offers impressive seaworthy qualities and stability, making it suitable for cruising with friends and family. Its spade rudder and bulb keel further contribute to its maneuverability and performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37 is designed for spaciousness and comfort, reflecting Jeanneau's philosophy of creating "liveable boats." The model was notably offered with either a two-cabin or a three-cabin layout to cater to different needs. The two-cabin version, in particular, is often praised as ideal for a couple or small family, providing ample living space.

Typical layouts feature a forward V-berth cabin, a spacious salon with opposing settees or a U-shaped dinette, and a well-appointed galley. The head is generally described as large, with some configurations boasting a separate shower stall, which is a significant amenity for a boat of this size. Aft, the boat commonly offers one or two private cabins, often with generous double berths. Owners frequently highlight the substantial storage capacity, including a "big storage garage," which is particularly appreciated for longer cruises. The interior finish typically features warm wood trim, creating a classic and inviting atmosphere, complemented by good ventilation. The large cockpit, particularly with the table stowed, further extends the living space on deck, providing generous seating areas.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37 generally express high satisfaction with its robust construction and comfortable cruising capabilities. Many praise its performance as a capable cruiser, highlighting its ease of handling and spacious accommodations. The boat is often seen as a good value, combining appealing features with a competitive price point.

However, as with any pre-owned vessel, some common issues have been noted by owners. Some reports mention intermittent engine problems, which may require attention in older models. Additionally, a few owners have reported experiencing various problems over time, indicating the importance of a thorough survey when considering purchase. Despite these potential concerns, the overall sentiment is positive, with owners appreciating the Sun Odyssey 37's suitability for long-term cruising and its ability to accommodate a small family comfortably. The active Jeanneau owner community provides a valuable resource for sharing knowledge and support.