Dickerson 37 CC Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Dickerson 37 CC is characterized by a moderate-displacement hull that balances the stability required for offshore passages with the agility needed for Chesapeake Bay gunkholing. With a displacement of approximately 16,000 pounds and a moderate fin keel paired with a skeg-hung rudder, the boat exhibits a "planted" feel in a seaway. According to technical insights from the Dickerson Owners Association, the Hazen design was a departure from the heavy, full-keel predecessors, offering a reduced wetted surface that allows the boat to perform admirably in light airs—a necessity for summer sailing on the US East Coast.

On the water, the 37 CC is noted for its tracking ability. The skeg-hung rudder provides a degree of protection and directional stability that makes the boat easy to handle under autopilot or windvane. While the center cockpit configuration places the helm higher and further forward than the AC variant, the visibility remains excellent. The sail area-to-displacement ratio is conservative but efficient, typically rigged as a sloop or a cutter, allowing owners to depower easily as the wind builds without losing the boat’s balanced helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary appeal of the Center Cockpit variant is the interior volume and the privacy afforded by the split-cabin arrangement. By moving the cockpit to the center of the vessel, Hazen created space for a dedicated aft stateroom, which is usually accessed via a walkthrough on the starboard side. This passage often doubles as a sea-gallery or storage area, leading to a cabin that features a large double berth—a luxury rarely found in 37-foot boats of this era.

The main salon is traditional, featuring high-quality teak joinery that reflects the builder’s wood-working heritage. Most layouts include a U-shaped galley to port and a navigational station to starboard. The use of balsa-cored decks helped with thermal and acoustic insulation, making the interior quieter under power and more comfortable in varying climates. In contrast, the sibling Aft Cockpit (AC) model offers a larger, more traditional cockpit for social sailing but sacrifices the private aft stateroom in favor of a larger lazarette and a more standard quarter-berth arrangement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Dickerson 37 CC should focus their inspections on the specific construction methods of the 1980s. While robust, these vessels require diligence in a few key areas:

• Balsa Core Integrity: The hull and deck utilize end-grain balsa coring. It is essential to use a moisture meter and percussion testing around all deck hardware, chainplates, and stanchion bases to ensure no water intrusion has compromised the core.
• Chainplate Seals: Like many boats of this vintage, the chainplates pass through the deck and are prone to slow leaks if the sealant is not maintained. Left unchecked, this can lead to core rot or corrosion of the stainless steel plates where they meet the bulkhead.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The original aluminum tanks may be nearing the end of their service life. Buyers should inspect for pitting or "blooming" on the tank surfaces, particularly in areas where moisture might collect against the metal.
• Engine Access: While the center cockpit design provides an engine room under the cockpit sole, access can be tight depending on how secondary systems (like water heaters or chargers) have been installed over the years.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Dickerson 37 is meticulously preserved by a highly active owner base. The Dickerson Owners Association (DOA) is the primary repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and restoration logs. The association is famous for its annual rendezvous in the Chesapeake, where owners of both the classic wooden "Simplissima" models and the modern fiberglass 37s gather to share maintenance tips and design modifications.

The Verdict

The Dickerson 37 Center Cockpit remains a premier choice for couples seeking a stout, American-built cruiser with a touch of custom-build quality. It successfully blends the traditional aesthetics of the Maryland shore with the performance requirements of modern coastal and offshore cruising.

Pros

• Private Accommodations: The aft stateroom is exceptionally spacious for a vessel under 40 feet.
• Build Quality: High-grade interior joinery and a stiff, cored hull provide a premium feel.
• Balanced Handling: The Hazen-designed hull handles varied sea states with predictability and grace.

Cons

• Core Maintenance: The balsa-cored hull and deck require vigilant monitoring for moisture.
• Limited Availability: As a semi-custom builder, Dickerson produced fewer hulls than production giants like Catalina or Hunter.
• Cockpit Height: The elevated center cockpit can feel more exposed in heavy weather compared to the deeper aft-cockpit version.