Ranger 37 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Ranger 37 began in 1972, marking a significant offering from Ranger Yachts, a company founded by Jack Jensen with design talent exclusively from Gary Mull. Mull, known for his emphasis on light displacement and sturdy construction, designed the Ranger 37 primarily as an IOR one-ton racer, a popular class in offshore racing during that era. This design objective meant the boat was engineered to perform competitively under the strict IOR handicapping rules, leading to its characteristic fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration.

The Ranger 37 was produced in Costa Mesa, California, reflecting Ranger Yachts' commitment to building quality fiberglass vessels. During its production run, approximately 100 units were built. For those seeking even greater performance, an optional tall rig was available, which offered increased sail area.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ranger 37's design characteristics translate into a capable and responsive sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.35, the boat exhibits moderate sail-carrying ability, suggesting respectable performance across a range of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in heavy air. Its high Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.48 indicates significant stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

While Gary Mull was known for "light displacement" designs, the Ranger 37's Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 298, positions it in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category for its size by modern cruising standards. This characteristic, however, was often inherent in IOR designs, which required certain weight distributions to optimize racing handicaps. Owners have consistently praised the Ranger 37's solid construction and its ability to handle rough conditions effectively, with reports of the boat performing well through challenging seas. The boat features a fin keel for good upwind performance and a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to its directional stability and robustness. Some owners have undertaken rudder modifications, suggesting that early models might have exhibited some weather helm, a common characteristic in certain IOR designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior accommodations of the Ranger 37, while considered "decent" and offering a "comfortable cabin" for its era, reflect its primary design as an IOR racer. The long overhangs typical of IOR hulls, though contributing to performance, often result in less interior volume compared to more modern cruising designs of similar overall length.

General descriptions suggest a practical layout for cruising, typically featuring a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a salon with settees, and a galley. While specific detailed interior diagrams are not universally available, the emphasis was on providing functional spaces for a crew, balancing comfort with the demands of a racing platform. Owners note that the interior, though smaller than what one might find in a contemporary 37-foot cruiser, is still suitable for shorthanded cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ranger 37 frequently commend its solid construction and its ability to handle demanding offshore conditions with reassuring stability. 4, 5, 6, Builder Article The sturdy build, a hallmark of Gary Mull's designs, has contributed to the longevity of many Ranger 37s, allowing them to remain active in the sailing community decades after their production.

Common points raised by owners often include the robust nature of the hull and its reliable sailing performance. As with many fiberglass boats of its vintage, recurring maintenance considerations can include the potential for osmosis, a condition common in plastic boats of that era. Additionally, some owners have opted to modify the rudder to achieve a better-balanced helm and reduce weather helm, enhancing the boat's handling characteristics. Despite these potential maintenance items typical of older vessels, the Ranger 37 is largely regarded as a capable and seaworthy sailboat, appreciated by those who value its blend of racing heritage and cruising comfort.