Lagoon 37 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Launched in 1991, the Lagoon 37 was in production until 1998, a period during which Lagoon Catamaran, initially an innovative arm of Jeanneau Technologies Avancées (JTA) and later part of the powerful Beneteau Group, was solidifying its reputation for robust and livable cruising multihulls. VPLP Design's philosophy, deeply ingrained in Lagoon's identity, emphasizes a blend of elegance, comfort, and reliability, a design brief clearly reflected in the 37. The vessel was developed with versatility in mind, catering to both the demands of charter fleets and the desires of private owners for a self-sufficient cruising catamaran. Lagoon's manufacturing ethos during this era, drawing from JTA's expertise in high-tech construction, involved the use of advanced composite materials. The Lagoon 37, for instance, features hulls and deck structures crafted with Baltek end-grain balsa cores, sandwiched between bi- and unidirectional rovings, ensuring durability and robust performance. While the Lagoon 37's hulls are noted for being very similar to the successful Lagoon 380, it distinguished itself as a well-proportioned cruising catamaran in its own right, offering a clean and refined aesthetic. Variations in layout existed, notably "owner's versions" often featuring a three-cabin, two-head configuration, with some rare examples even sporting a "galley-up" design, though the standard was typically "galley-down."

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lagoon 37 is recognized for its capable sailing performance and generally positive handling characteristics. Owners and reviewers note its ability to achieve speeds of up to 12 knots, underscoring its efficiency as a cruising catamaran. Designed predominantly for comfortable cruising, the 37 is particularly adept at sailing off the wind. It is equipped with a modest fractional sloop rig, featuring a standard mainsail with a pronounced roach. This sail plan, while generally effective, can sometimes lead to a degree of weather helm, particularly with the large main. Its twin fin keels contribute to a maximum draft of 4 feet, suggesting a good balance between stability and access to shallower anchorages.

Under power, the twin Perkins M20 diesel engines afford the Lagoon 37 superb twin-screw handling capabilities, making maneuvering in tight marina spaces notably manageable. A hallmark of catamaran sailing, the Lagoon 37 provides a comfortable, level sailing experience, which greatly enhances onboard living, especially during longer passages. While specific anecdotal accounts of its heavy weather performance are varied, modern Lagoon catamarans, including the 37, are generally considered well-built and safe for offshore conditions, capable of handling significant seas when properly managed.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Lagoon 37 is designed for comfort and practicality, prioritizing spaciousness and a convivial atmosphere. The saloon, which occupies the majority of the nacelle's volume, serves as the central living area, benefiting from ample light and a panoramic view. While specific headroom details are not always documented, the overall design aims to maximize interior volume.

A typical layout for the Lagoon 37 includes three cabins and two heads, making it a popular choice for families or groups. The galley is often situated in one of the hulls, in a "galley-down" configuration, frequently featuring an island setup to facilitate ease of entertaining and cooking, even while underway. These galleys are typically well-appointed for their size, with adequate counter space and storage. The chart table is usually integrated into the mid-ship area, often partially extending into one of the hulls. The finish quality generally reflects the robust construction standards of Lagoon during its production years, utilizing fiberglass and composite materials, often complemented by wood trim. Storage solutions are integrated throughout the vessel, though specific details vary by individual boat and owner modifications.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lagoon 37 frequently commend its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, making it a reliable choice for extended cruising. Its inherent stability as a catamaran is consistently praised for providing a more comfortable and level experience compared to monohulls, particularly on passages. The interior volume and accommodation layout are generally well-received, offering ample space for its length.

While generally a well-regarded vessel, some owners note that the roachy mainsail can contribute to weather helm, requiring attention to sail trim. Additionally, as with many cruising catamarans, overloading the boat can noticeably impact performance, underscoring the importance of managing displacement for optimal sailing. These observations highlight common characteristics of the model, rather than widespread design flaws, and are often manageable with experience and proper setup.