Sailing Performance & Handling
The ETAP 37s is characterized by a high-aspect 7/8 fractional rig that allows for precise sail trimming and improved upwind performance compared to its predecessors. According to evaluations by Yachting Monthly, the hull design by Mortain & Mavrikios emphasizes a long waterline and a relatively broad beam carried aft, which provides significant initial stability. This hull form, combined with a ballast ratio of approximately 32%, ensures the boat remains upright and controllable even when pressed in a blow.
One of the most distinctive features of the 37s is the option for the Etap-patented tandem keel. This design allows for a shallow draft of just 1.35 meters (approx. 4'5") without the complexity of a lift-keel mechanism, using two separate foils to maintain lift and reduce leeway. While the tandem keel is popular for coastal cruising in areas like the Chesapeake Bay or the French canals, the deep fin keel (1.95 meters) is preferred for serious offshore work, offering superior tracking and a lower center of gravity. Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff" and predictable, with the foam-filled hull significantly dampening the sound of water slapping against the hull, leading to a quieter and less fatiguing passage.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The double-hull construction defines the interior experience of the ETAP 37s. Because the hull is a sandwich of two fiberglass skins, there are no exposed frames or stringers, resulting in a remarkably clean and modern aesthetic. This construction also provides exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation, virtually eliminating the condensation issues that plague traditional solid-fiberglass yachts. The interior is typically finished in light oak or beechwood, which, combined with the numerous overhead hatches, creates a bright, airy atmosphere.
The standard layout features a two-cabin configuration. The forward V-berth is spacious, but the real highlight is the aft cabin, which extends under the cockpit and offers a large double berth and ample standing room. The 37s also features a well-appointed L-shaped galley and a dedicated navigation station. The "s" designation also brought about the "Vertical EVC" steering system—an innovative EWA (Etap World Ambition) steering wheel that could be tilted to the side to provide an unobstructed path from the companionway to the stern while at anchor. Sibling models built on similar design philosophies include the smaller Etap 32s and 34s, as well as the larger Etap 39s, which shared the same Mortain & Mavrikios design DNA and construction methods.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While the ETAP 37s is built to a high standard, the very feature that makes it unique—the foam core—requires specific scrutiny during a pre-purchase survey.
- Foam Saturation: Although Etap used closed-cell foam, any significant hull breach or improperly sealed through-hull fitting can allow water to migrate between the skins. If the foam becomes saturated, it is notoriously difficult to dry out and can significantly increase the boat's weight.
- Saildrive Seal: Like many European yachts of this era, the 37s uses a Volvo Penta saildrive. The rubber diaphragm seal has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval of seven years; buyers should verify the age of this seal to avoid catastrophic failure.
- Rudder Bearings: Some owners have reported premature wear in the rudder bearings, leading to "play" or a vibrating sensation in the wheel. Checking the rudder stock for movement while the boat is hauled is essential.
- Deck Hardware Bedding: Because the deck is also a sandwich construction, any hardware added by previous owners must be properly "potted" with epoxy to prevent water from entering the core. Inspect the area around stanchion bases and cleats for signs of compression or soft spots.
Community & Resources
The ETAP 37s is supported by a robust network of international owner associations. The Etap Owners Association is a primary resource for technical manuals, spare parts sourcing, and community advice, particularly regarding the maintenance of the unique double-hull structure. Additionally, the Belgian-based "Etap Club" maintains historical data on the various "s" and "i" series models, providing a wealth of information for those looking to restore or upgrade their vessels.
The Verdict
The ETAP 37s is a sophisticated cruising yacht for the safety-conscious sailor who refuses to sacrifice sailing quality. It occupies a unique middle ground between a high-performance cruiser and a specialized safety vessel.
Pros:
- Unsinkability: The foam-filled double hull provides a safety margin few other production boats can match.
- Insulation: Exceptional resistance to condensation and temperature extremes, making it an excellent choice for northern latitudes or tropical cruising.
- Build Quality: High-quality joinery and a rigid hull structure result in a durable, long-lasting vessel.
- Handling: Well-balanced under sail with a predictable motion in a seaway.
Cons:
- Repair Complexity: In the event of a major collision, repairing a double-skin foam hull is significantly more complex and expensive than a traditional single-skin hull.
- Storage Limitations: The double hull consumes internal volume, meaning the 37s has slightly less storage space than a single-skinned boat of the same length.
- Limited Availability: As production ceased following the builder's financial difficulties in 2009, finding a 37s on the used market can be a challenge.
