Tayana 37 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Tayana 37 dates back to 1976, when its production first began. The design was initially commissioned by Will Eckert, a partner in Flying Dutchman Yachts, in collaboration with C.T. Chen of Ta Yang Yacht Building. Originally designated as the TA CHIAO 37 and later the TA YANG 37, the manufacturing rights were subsequently acquired by Ta Yang, which became the primary builder. This collaboration led to the production of nearly 600 units, making it one of the most successful sailboats of its type.

Robert Perry, celebrated for his traditional, full-keel designs, conceived the Tayana 37 with a focus on durability and seaworthiness. A notable aspect of Perry's design for this cruising boat is its unusually high-aspect rig, which contributes to commendable performance across various points of sail. In line with Ta Yang's commitment to sturdy, fiberglass construction for blue-water yachts, the Tayana 37 features a heavy glass hull. 1, 7, Builder Article The stern design subtly draws inspiration from the well-known Aage Nielsen designs, lending to its classic aesthetic. Throughout its production, the Tayana 37 was offered with versatility in rigging, available either as a cutter or a ketch, and with options for both wood or aluminum spars, allowing owners to choose a configuration best suited for their cruising ambitions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tayana 37 is characterized as a heavy-displacement cruising boat, optimized for comfort and security during long voyages. Its calculated displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 337.1 confirms its position as a substantial, traditional cruiser, indicating a yacht built to handle significant seas rather than prioritizing light-air speed. The sail area to displacement ratio, around 16.93, suggests a moderate performance profile, capable of good speeds but not necessarily a blistering light-air performer. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.355, the Tayana 37 demonstrates reasonable stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up to a fair amount of wind.

Despite its heavy build, Robert Perry's choice of a high-aspect rig allows the Tayana 37 to achieve good performance across all points of sail. Owners generally describe the boat as having good handling characteristics, suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. However, some owners have noted historical issues with the steering system, describing it as occasionally "sloppy and mushy," which led to design modifications.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary due to Ta Yang's semi-custom approach, which allowed for owner personalization, the Tayana 37 is consistently praised for its surprisingly spacious interior. Its layout is designed to comfortably accommodate up to seven people, making it a viable option for families or those seeking live-aboard capabilities. A defining feature of the Tayana 37's interior is the extensive use of fine teak joinery and cabinetry, which contributes to a warm, traditional, and high-quality finish throughout the vessel. Typical arrangements would include a comfortable V-berth forward, a head, a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and often quarter berths, providing ample living and storage space for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tayana 37 frequently laud its robust construction and its ability to provide a comfortable motion when sailing in a seaway. This solid build quality and seaworthiness are consistently highlighted as primary strengths, contributing to a strong sense of community among Tayana owners who appreciate their yachts' proven offshore performance.

However, common maintenance considerations and potential issues have been noted. Some owners have experienced problems with the original hull-to-deck joint and the development of leaks over time. Recurring issues with the steering system's feel have also been a point of discussion. Additionally, some electrical issues related to the original harness have been reported. Another area of concern mentioned by owners pertains to the bobstay and its waterline connection, with some citing material and engineering challenges in this crucial part of the rig. Despite these potential concerns, the enduring popularity of the Tayana 37 underscores its fundamental strengths as a capable and beloved blue-water cruising yacht.