Beneteau Evasion 37 Information, Review, Specs

The Evasion line was extensive, catering to a niche that desired the "fifty-fifty" balance—half sailing yacht, half motor vessel. Its smaller siblings, the Evasion 22, 25, 28, and the highly popular Evasion 32, shared the characteristic pilothouse profile, though the 37 offered significantly more offshore capability. Later iterations, such as the Evasion 36 and Evasion 40, shifted away from the ketch rig toward a sloop-driven deck-saloon philosophy, making the 37 the definitive example of the classic Evasion motorsailer aesthetic.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Evasion 37 is a heavy-displacement cruiser characterized by a stable, predictable motion in a seaway. With a hull form that favors volume and a relatively shallow draft (typically around 1.45m to 1.60m depending on the keel configuration), it is not a "pointing" boat. Its ketch rig—featuring a main mast and a shorter mizzen mast—provides a versatile sail plan that is easily managed by a small crew. In heavy weather, the ability to sail under "jib and jigger" (headsail and mizzen) keeps the boat balanced and the center of effort low, a configuration often praised by owners for its comfort in a blow.

Handling is unique due to the dual-helm stations: a traditional pedestal in the aft cockpit and a secondary internal steering position within the wheelhouse. This arrangement allows the navigator to maintain course and engine control in inclement weather without being exposed to the elements. Under power, the Evasion 37 relies on its substantial diesel engine (originally often a Perkins or Volvo Penta) to maintain speeds of 6.5 to 7.5 knots. According to the historical archives at Beneteau, the design emphasis was consistently placed on autonomy and the "sailing-trawler" spirit rather than racing metrics.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The hallmark of the Evasion 37 is its voluminous, teak-finished interior, which was revolutionary for its size in the early 1980s. The wheelhouse serves as the primary social and navigational hub, featuring a large U-shaped dinette to port that offers panoramic views through the large wrap-around windows. This "inside-out" living style predated the modern deck-saloon trend by decades.

Beneath the wheelhouse and forward, the layout typically features two or three cabins depending on the owner’s original specification. The most common configuration includes a spacious V-berth forward and a separate aft cabin tucked under the cockpit sole, providing privacy for two couples. The galley is generally positioned in a "step-down" arrangement, providing a dedicated space that does not interfere with the flow of the main saloon. Beneteau’s use of high-quality teak veneers and solid wood trim during this period gives the Evasion 37 a warmer, more traditional maritime feel compared to the lighter, more minimalist interiors of contemporary Oceanis models.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an Evasion 37, the most critical areas of concern relate to the age of the hull and the complexity of its systems. Prospective buyers should prioritize the following technical areas:

• Osmotic Blistering: Like many yachts produced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Evasion 37 is susceptible to osmosis. Hull surveys should include moisture readings and a visual check for blistering, particularly in the rudder and around the keel joint.
• Dual Helm Integrity: The hydraulic or cable systems linking the internal wheelhouse steering to the external cockpit pedestal can suffer from lag or wear. It is essential to test the hand-over between stations and inspect the linkages for corrosion.
• Window Seals: The large acrylic or glass windows of the wheelhouse are a primary feature but also a common point of failure. Look for signs of "crazing" or interior water staining on the woodwork, which indicates the seals have perished and require re-bedding.
• Standing Rigging: The ketch rig doubles the amount of standing rigging compared to a sloop. Buyers must factor in the increased cost of replacement for two masts’ worth of wires and turnbuckles, which should be done every 10–15 years regardless of visual appearance.

Community & Resources

Owners of these classic motorsailers are supported by the broader Beneteau community, though specific technical support for the Evasion series is often found within regional associations. The Beneteau Yacht Club serves as a modern hub for owners to register their vessels and access historical documentation. For technical drawings and legacy specifications, the heritage section of the Beneteau Group provides the most authoritative documentation on the Evasion line's engineering.

The Verdict

The Beneteau Evasion 37 is an exceptional choice for the cruising couple or family who values comfort and year-round sailing over speed. While it will never win a regatta, its robust build and protected helm make it a "go-anywhere" coastal explorer that feels much larger than its 37 feet.

Pros:

• Superior Protection: The internal wheelhouse allows for comfortable cruising in northern latitudes or stormy conditions.
• Voluminous Layout: Offers the living space of many modern 40-footers thanks to its clever split-level design.
• Stable Motion: The ketch rig and heavy displacement provide a comfortable, upright ride in most sea states.

Cons:

• Light Wind Performance: The boat is heavy and under-canvassed for light airs, necessitating frequent use of the engine.
• Maintenance Complexity: Dual steering stations and two masts increase the annual maintenance budget and complexity.
• Age-Related Wear: Most examples will require significant updates to electronics and plumbing to meet modern cruising standards.