X-372 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the X-372 unfolded during a pivotal period for X-Yachts, following their early successes with models like the X-79 and X-99. Founded in 1979 by Niels and Lars Jeppesen and Birger Hansen, the company's ethos was built on a commitment to producing yachts that combined exhilarating performance with exceptional quality and comfort, even starting "without a penny to their name." Niels Jeppesen, the sole designer for all X-Yachts models, championed a philosophy centered on stiffness, precision, and performance.

Throughout the 1980s, X-Yachts gained recognition for designing and building winning International Offshore Rule (IOR) yachts for world-class racing, a testament to their focus on speed and robust construction. The X-372, therefore, emerged from a deep understanding of performance sailing, aiming to translate racing prowess into a yacht capable of both competitive sailing and comfortable cruising.

The X-372 was offered in two primary versions: the "Prestige" and the "Sport." The Prestige model typically featured a masthead sloop rig and wheel steering, catering to those who prioritized cruising comfort and a more traditional feel. The Sport version, on the other hand, boasted a taller fractional rig and tiller steering, appealing to sailors with a keener interest in racing performance and a more direct connection to the helm. Optional features like teak decks were also available to customize the owner's experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The X-372's design specifications translate into a yacht with strong sailing characteristics, reflecting X-Yachts' commitment to performance. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.88, the X-372 demonstrates a good power-to-weight ratio, suggesting a lively performance in light air while still being manageable as the wind builds.

Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) stands at a robust 43.1%. This high percentage of ballast, composed of lead and iron, significantly contributes to the boat's inherent stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a considerable amount of wind without excessive heeling. This characteristic is crucial for both comfortable cruising and competitive racing in varying conditions.

The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of about 196.06 places the X-372 firmly in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser-racer category. This relatively low D/L ratio, combined with its fin keel and spade rudder, indicates a yacht designed for agile handling and good acceleration. The fin keel is known for providing splendid maneuverability, enhancing the boat's responsiveness under sail. Owners and reviewers frequently praise X-Yachts for delivering a responsive and exhilarating sailing experience, marked by solid construction and precise handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the X-372 is designed with a classic layout, balancing comfort with practicality, making it suitable for both extended cruising and weekend trips. The interior is typically fitted out with high-gloss Khaya mahogany, giving it a warm and traditional aesthetic, complemented by a teak cabin floor.

The layout usually features a traditional V-berth forward, providing a comfortable sleeping area. A well-appointed L-shaped galley is typically found, offering sufficient space for meal preparation. The salon often includes a large, forward-facing navigation table, a hallmark of serious cruising yachts, alongside comfortable seating. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design aims to provide ample space for movement below deck, consistent with a yacht of its size and purpose. The deck layout is also designed for functional spaces, including wide walkways and efficient sail handling systems, such as Selden winches for genoa and spinnaker.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the X-372 often laud its combination of excellent sailing characteristics, safety, and comfort below deck. Many appreciate the solid construction, a hallmark of X-Yachts, which contributes to the boat's seakindly motion and durability. The option of teak decks and wheel steering on the Prestige version, or the more performance-oriented fractional rig and tiller on the Sport model, allowed owners to tailor the boat to their specific sailing preferences, contributing to strong owner satisfaction. Forum discussions and owner reviews frequently highlight the X-372's performance on the racecourse as well as its capabilities as a comfortable family cruiser.