Northshore 370 Sports Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Northshore 370 Sports began in 1999. Designed by Scott Jutson, the 370 Sports marked a departure from some of Northshore's previous designs, with Jutson delivering a modern yet moderate cruiser/racer hull form. The design was characterized as a "Euro-style" yacht, emphasizing performance and a pleasing aesthetic. Unlike some of Northshore's more famous Southerly range, which featured innovative lifting keels, the 370 Sports was built with a fixed fin keel and spade rudder, focusing on direct sailing performance. The construction process involved skilled shipwrights, ensuring a high degree of customisation and integrity in its build. While there's no widespread mention of significant MkI/MkII variations, the emphasis was on a well-balanced and easily driven hull form.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Northshore 370 Sports, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is designed for responsive handling and a lively sailing experience. Calculating its key performance ratios reveals insights into its characteristics:

• Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D): With a sail area of 668.01 sq ft and a displacement of 10,472 lbs, the SA/D ratio is approximately 20.3. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Northshore 370 Sports is a capable performer, particularly in light air conditions, indicating it will respond well to gentle breezes.
• Ballast to Displacement (Bal/D): The ballast of 3,197 lbs against a displacement of 10,472 lbs results in a Bal/D ratio of approximately 0.305. While not exceptionally high, this ratio, combined with a bulb keel, provides adequate stability for a performance cruiser, allowing it to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind.
• Displacement to Length (D/L): Using a displacement of 10,472 lbs and a waterline length of 31.99 ft, the D/L ratio is approximately 144. This low number categorizes the 370 Sports as a lighter, more performance-oriented boat, suggesting it is relatively easily driven and can achieve good speeds, especially for its length.

Anecdotal reports praise the Northshore 370 Sports for its performance, noting its ability to do well in light airs. It has been described as "smooth, spicy, and flavoursome," with owners appreciating its well-balanced nature and easy drive. The boat is considered capable of sustained passage making, offering a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Northshore 370 Sports, despite the being limited on headroom, is noted for its ample volume, reflecting Scott Jutson's design goal. While specific details vary with individual boats and customisation options, typical layouts for a performance cruiser of this size often feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a central table, a functional galley, and a private head compartment. Many boats in this category would also include a quarter berth or aft cabin. The build quality, being hand-made by skilled shipwrights, suggests a high standard of finish. Reviews highlight a balance of performance and space, indicating a comfortable and well-appointed interior suitable for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Northshore 370 Sports generally express high satisfaction with the boat's overall performance and build quality. They frequently praise its ability to perform well in varying wind conditions, particularly its responsiveness in light airs. The robust construction and integrity of the build are often highlighted as key strengths, suggesting that the boat ages well. The balance between a spirited sailing experience and comfortable interior volume is also consistently appreciated.

While generally positive, discussions among owners sometimes reveal minor considerations. As with many older vessels, potential buyers might look for well-maintained original deck fittings to prevent future leaks, a common maintenance point for any boat of this vintage. However, the active owner community, including former Northshore Yachts personnel, suggests good support and shared knowledge for addressing any common issues.