Jeanneau Selection 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Selection 37 is defined by its lively and responsive nature, a direct result of its design for one-design fleet racing. Featuring a deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, the boat tracks with precision but requires active trimming to perform at its peak. The fractional rig is tall and incorporates running backstays—a feature that provides exceptional control over mast bend and forestay tension but adds a layer of complexity for short-handed cruising.

In heavy air, the Selection 37 is known for its "stiff" performance relative to its light displacement of approximately 4,500 kg, though it rewards early reefing to maintain an upright posture. The ballast-to-displacement ratio is substantial, providing the leverage needed to carry its generous sail area. Conversely, in light air, the boat’s narrow beam and low wetted surface area allow it to ghost past more modern, wider-stern cruisers. Handling under power is generally straightforward, though the deep 1.90m (6'3") draft requires vigilance in shallow coastal waters. Owners often report that the boat feels "like a big dinghy," offering immediate feedback through the tiller or wheel, depending on the specific configuration.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many Jeanneau models of the era that prioritized volume, the Selection 37 was designed around the needs of a racing crew. This resulted in two primary interior iterations: the "Tour de France" (TDF) version and the "Export" or cruising version.

The TDF version is famously minimalist, optimized for weight distribution. It features a unique midships engine placement, often located under the salon table to centralize mass and reduce pitching. This layout typically includes several pipe berths and open stowage. The cruising version, while still constrained by the boat’s narrow 3.25m beam, offers more traditional amenities. It usually features a V-berth forward, a central salon with two settees, a functional galley to port, and a navigation station to starboard. The aft section of the boat is utilized for two separate cabins, though these are often "open" to the main cabin to save weight and improve ventilation. Headroom is adequate for a performance boat of this vintage, though tall sailors may find the forward sections cramped.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Selection 37’s primary claim to fame is its decade-long tenure (1984–1991) as the workhorse of the Tour de France à la Voile. It replaced the First 30 and was eventually succeeded by the Mumm 36. This period cemented the boat’s reputation as a "school of offshore racing," where many of France's top professional sailors honed their skills. While it lacks the mainstream Hollywood footprint of some Jeanneau powerboats, it is a cult classic in European racing circles and is frequently discussed in French maritime literature as a pivotal design in the evolution of the modern racer-cruiser.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Selection 37 with a focus on its structural history, given its likely past as a racing vessel.

• Running Backstays: The rig relies on runners for stability and performance. For a cruising couple, this can be a safety concern during gybes. Check the condition of the backstay high-load blocks and the deck chainplates.
• Structural Grid (Varangues): In early 80s Jeanneaus, the internal fiberglass grid (the framework that supports the keel and mast) can occasionally suffer from secondary bonding separation, especially if the boat has been grounded or campaigned hard in heavy seas.
• Engine Maintenance: Because many models feature the midships engine placement, access is excellent for routine maintenance but can lead to increased noise and heat in the main salon. Check the seal of the engine box and the condition of the long drive shaft.
• Osmosis: Like many hulls from this era of fiberglass production, "blistering" or osmosis is a known possibility. A moisture meter test on the hull during survey is essential.
• Deck Delamination: Check the balsa-cored decks for soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the genoa tracks, where high loads can eventually compromise the seal.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical knowledge is the Jeanneau Owners Network, an independent global organization that maintains an extensive database of owner manuals and technical tips. Because the Selection 37 was so popular in France, the Selection 37 Class Association (historically active in the TDF circles) remains a secondary source for original sail plans and one-design specifications.

The Verdict

The Jeanneau Selection 37 remains a compelling choice for the sailor who prioritizes speed and historical pedigree over "condo-style" interior volume. It is a purist’s boat that demands attention but returns immense satisfaction on the racecourse or a fast coastal passage.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and windward ability.
• Built to a higher structural standard for offshore racing requirements.
• Timeless, aggressive lines that still look modern on the water.
• Active used market with affordable entry points for performance seekers.

Cons:

• Narrow interior compared to modern 37-footers.
• Running backstays increase the workload for short-handed crews.
• Many units on the market have seen heavy racing use and require refitting.
• Deep draft limits access to some popular cruising grounds and marinas.