Pacific Seacraft 37 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pacific Seacraft 37 began production in 1980, though it was first conceived and sold in 1979 as the Crealock 37. The creation of this model was deeply rooted in the design philosophy of W.I.B. Crealock, who famously referred to his Pacific Seacraft 34 and 37 designs as "Voyagemakers." Crealock's ethos, aligned with Pacific Seacraft's commitment to quality, focused on crafting inspired, tough, and seakindly vessels engineered specifically for the rigors of serious offshore cruising.

Pacific Seacraft, founded in 1975, has always prioritized building durable, ocean-going sailing yachts, a principle clearly embodied in the 37. During her production run, the Pacific Seacraft 37 offered considerable versatility in rig, being available as a sloop, yawl, or cutter. While some were rigged as sloops or yawls, the majority of Pacific Seacraft 37s were built as true cutters, a configuration often favored for offshore work. Additionally, a shallow-draft version was offered, featuring a draft of 4.42 feet with a slightly increased ballast of 6400 pounds. Early models of the vessel were also known to be fitted with Volvo diesels.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 16,000 pounds and a waterline length of 27.75 feet, the Pacific Seacraft 37 falls into the category of a heavy-displacement cruiser. Her displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 334 indicates a vessel designed for comfort and stability in challenging conditions rather than outright speed. This heavy build, coupled with a ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 0.39, contributes significantly to her stiffness and ability to stand up to a strong breeze, providing a secure and stable platform offshore.

The sail area to displacement ratio of about 15.6 suggests a moderate sail plan, indicating that while she is not designed to be a light-air flyer, she possesses sufficient drive for comfortable cruising. Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Pacific Seacraft 37 for its superb handling in rough conditions and its renowned sea-kindliness. The relatively narrow beam contributes to a comfortable, seakindly motion, enhancing crew comfort during longer passages. Despite her substantial build, the boat is often described as nimble, capable of pivoting effectively when properly handled.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pacific Seacraft 37 is thoughtfully designed for offshore living, prioritizing functionality and comfort for extended periods at sea. The layouts are described as attractive and well-suited for offshore use, with light flowing in through tempered glass, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere below deck. While the narrow beam, which contributes to her seakindly motion, means the interior accommodations might not feel as voluminous as some wider, more modern designs, the space is efficiently utilized.

Typical arrangements include a functional galley designed for use in a seaway, a dedicated navigation station, and comfortable sleeping berths, all contributing to her reputation as a capable family cruiser for extensive voyages. The emphasis is on practicality and security, providing a safe and comfortable haven during demanding passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pacific Seacraft 37 consistently laud its robust construction and ability to handle rough seas with a comfortable motion. Many consider it one of the most versatile and best-designed cruising sailboats available, praising its reliability and solid build quality, which aligns with its "bluewater benchmark" status. The vessel's sea-kindliness and nimble handling are frequently highlighted as major strengths, providing confidence and comfort during long passages.

While the boat receives widespread acclaim for its offshore capabilities, a recurring issue noted by some owners involves problems with the original aluminum fuel tanks, which are typically located in the bilge. This is a common maintenance consideration that prospective owners might need to address, but overall, the strong owner community and the boat's enduring appeal underscore its reputation as an exceptional and reliable cruising yacht.