The Hood 37 is the direct predecessor to the more widely recognized Little Harbor 38. While the 38 eventually became the standardized production model, the 37s were often semi-custom builds, reflecting the experimental nature of Hood’s early naval architecture. This model also shares significant DNA with the Wauquiez Hood 38, built under license in France, and the Bristol 38.8, which Hood designed to cater to a more mass-market audience seeking the same "go-anywhere" centerboard versatility.
Sailing Performance & Handling
The Hood 37 is defined by its sea-kindly motion and exceptional tracking, traits born from its high displacement and traditional hull lines. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavy side, the boat is not a light-air flyer; however, it excels in a blow. According to editorial retrospectives in Cruising World, Hood's designs were optimized for "powerful" sailing, meaning they carry their momentum through chop where lighter boats would be stalled.
The centerboard is the heart of the 37’s performance. When the board is fully extended, the yacht achieves a draft of over 9 feet, providing the lateral resistance necessary for impressive upwind pointing—a rarity for a boat that can also navigate in 4 feet of water. Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff," thanks to a generous ballast-to-displacement ratio, meaning it stands up well to its canvas before requiring a reef. The steering is typically balanced, provided the sail plan is trimmed to account for the center of effort changes when the board is raised or lowered.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Hood 37 reflects the "gold standard" of its era, characterized by extensive use of solid teak, hand-rubbed finishes, and a layout optimized for use at sea. As a vessel designed for blue water, the interior features numerous handholds and a galley typically located at the base of the companionway for stability during meal preparation in heavy weather.
The layout generally follows a traditional plan: a V-berth forward, followed by a head and hanging lockers. The main salon usually features a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, both of which serve as excellent sea berths. Because many 37s were custom or semi-custom, variations exist; some hulls were finished with a pilot berth above the salon settees, while others used that space for additional cabinetry. Headroom is generally excellent for a boat of this vintage, often exceeding 6'2", a result of the boat’s significant volume and relatively high freeboard.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Hood 37 should focus their surveys on the specific complexities of Ted Hood’s design and the age of the vessels.
- Centerboard Assembly: The most critical inspection point is the centerboard trunk, the stainless steel pennant, and the lifting winch. Over decades, the pivot pin can wear, or the board can swell, leading to it becoming jammed.
- Teak Deck Integrity: Most Hood 37s were delivered with thick teak side decks. If these were screw-fastened, the primary concern is water intrusion into the sub-deck core. Any signs of "springy" fiberglass or interior overhead leaks near the chainplates should be investigated.
- Mast Step Corrosion: Many of these boats utilized a metal mast step located atop the keel. In an environment where bilge water may sit, galvanic corrosion can compromise the base of the mast.
- Chainplates: Given the blue water pedigree of the boat, the original stainless steel chainplates are often past their reliable service life and should be pulled for dye-penetrant testing or replacement.
Community & Resources
While there is no single "Hood 37" class association, owners are deeply integrated into the Little Harbor and Ted Hood design communities. Technical support and historical documentation are often shared through the Little Harbor Yacht owners' networks and the Bristol Yacht owners' groups, as the Bristol 38.8 shares many technical similarities. For those researching the design's history, the MIT Museum archives hold many of Ted Hood’s original drawings and plans, which can be invaluable for restoration projects.
The Verdict
The Hood 37 is a connoisseur’s cruiser, offering a level of build quality and design sophistication rarely found in modern production boats. It is an ideal platform for a couple looking to coastal cruise the Bahamas or cross oceans in comfort.
Pros:
- Versatile Draft: The centerboard allows for deep-draft performance and shallow-draft accessibility.
- Build Quality: Exceptional joinery and structural integrity from top-tier boatyards.
- Sea-Kindliness: A heavy, stable hull that inspires confidence in offshore conditions.
Cons:
- Maintenance Complexity: The centerboard system requires more maintenance than a standard fixed keel.
- Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement requires a significant breeze to reach hull speed.
- Age: Most examples will require updates to standing rigging, electronics, and plumbing systems.
