Chance 37 (Wauquiez) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Wauquiez Chance 37 commenced in 1971 and continued until 1977, with a total of 95 hulls built during its run. The design was penned by Britton Chance, Jr., an America's Cup designer whose work significantly influenced the racing and racing-cruising yachts of the 1970s under the evolving IOR rule. While some of Chance's designs were known for their unconventional nature, the Wauquiez Chance 37 proved to be a successful and popular model.

Wauquiez, as a builder, has always emphasized durability and quality, a philosophy clearly evident in the Chance 37. During this era, Wauquiez yachts were noted for their robust construction, often featuring solid fiberglass hulls and decks, ensuring enduring reliability. The Chance 37 was conceived to offer both sporty performance and comfortable sailing, aligning with Wauquiez's commitment to crafting vessels for discerning mariners. The model saw some variations during its production, notably offering versions with a shorter rig, and two different keel drafts, 1.85 meters and a deeper 2.15 meters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wauquiez Chance 37 is characterized by a fin keel and spade rudder, a configuration typical of performance-oriented designs of its time, providing good maneuverability and responsiveness. Its design ratios reflect a capable and stable cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio of approximately 15.83, the Chance 37 is designed for moderate performance, capable of respectable speeds but not necessarily optimized for light air. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio of roughly 0.46 indicates a high degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length Ratio of around 250.48 suggests a moderate to heavy displacement vessel for its length, contributing to its robust feel and comfortable cruising characteristics. The boat is known for its well-balanced sail plan and impressive stability due to its lead keel. Owners and reviewers often describe the Chance 37 as a vessel that performs admirably across various conditions, capable of fulfilling diverse sailing demands, from spirited coastal cruises to more extensive offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications can vary between individual vessels and refits, the Wauquiez Chance 37 was designed to offer maximum comfort within its approximately 37-foot length. The interior spaces of the Chance 37 are renowned for exuding a classic warmth, achieved through the extensive use of solid wood finishes, a hallmark of Wauquiez's commitment to refined craftsmanship. Typically, boats of this era and size would feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a compact galley, and a navigation station, along with an enclosed head compartment. The emphasis was generally on durable, functional layouts suitable for cruising, with ample storage integrated throughout the cabin.