Nauticat 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nauticat 37 is built on a moderate-displacement hull with a fin keel and a large, skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that provides a balance between directional stability and maneuverability. With a displacement of approximately 9,500 kg (nearly 21,000 lbs) and a ballast ratio of roughly 32%, the boat is notably "stiff," handling heavy weather with a sense of security that light-displacement cruisers often lack. According to editorial testing by Yachting Monthly, the boat performs surprisingly well in light to moderate airs, despite its substantial weight, provided the sails are kept clean and well-trimmed.

The helm experience is dual-natured. The exterior cockpit features a traditional pedestal and wheel for fair-weather sailing, while the interior pilothouse offers a second full steering station with engine controls and navigation displays. Under power, the standard Yanmar or Volvo Penta engines typically push the hull to a cruising speed of 7 knots with ease. Owners often note that the boat's high freeboard and windage can make docking in a crosswind challenging, though many units were fitted with bow thrusters to mitigate this issue.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nauticat 37 is defined by its raised deck saloon, which offers 360-degree visibility while seated—a hallmark of the brand. The craftsmanship is characterized by high-quality Finnish joinery, typically in satin-varnished teak. The layout usually consists of two large staterooms: a V-berth forward and a massive owner’s cabin aft, which often features a centerline queen berth and ensuite head.

The galley is typically located "down" from the saloon, though it remains open to the light from the large pilothouse windows. Throughout its production run, several variations were offered. While most 37s feature the standard deep fin keel (1.85m), a shoal-draft version was available for regions like the Chesapeake or the Bahamas. The boat's sibling models include the smaller Nauticat 351 and the larger Nauticat 42, which shares the same design language but offers an additional guest cabin and greater tankage. The Nauticat 385 later emerged as a direct evolution of the 37, featuring a slightly more modern stern and updated interior aesthetics.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Nauticat 37 with a focus on specific "high-latitude" wear and tear, as these boats are often used for extensive four-season cruising.

• Window Seals and Frames: The large aluminum-framed windows in the pilothouse are the boat's greatest asset and its most common point of failure. Over time, the sealant between the GRP and the frames can degrade, leading to leaks that damage the teak interior.
• Teak Deck Longevity: Many Nauticat 37s were delivered with thick, screw-down teak decks. Buyers should inspect for thinning wood and "popping" bungs, which can indicate that moisture is reaching the core, though Nauticat used high-quality core materials.
• Chainplate Access: Like many well-built cruisers, the chainplates are robust, but accessing them for inspection behind the high-quality cabinetry can be difficult and may require some dismantling of the joinery.
• Engine Exhaust Elbows: On older models with original Yanmar engines, the mixing elbows are known to corrode; these should be checked for carbon buildup or pinhole leaks.
• Rudder Bearings: Due to the weight of the skeg-hung rudder, the lower bearings can develop play over decades of use, leading to a "thumping" sensation at the helm.

Community & Resources

The Nauticat community is exceptionally active, a reflection of the brand's cult-like following. The Nauticat Association serves as the primary technical resource for owners, offering a deep archive of manuals, wiring diagrams, and specific maintenance advice for the 37 and its siblings. Additionally, the manufacturer, now operating as Nauticat Yachts SIA, maintains historical data and continues to support the fleet with spare parts and consulting for refits.

The Verdict

The Nauticat 37 is a premier choice for the offshore cruiser who prioritizes comfort and visibility without reverting to a pure "motorsailer" hull. It is a robust, safe, and beautifully finished yacht that holds its value exceptionally well on the secondary market.

Pros:

• True all-weather capability with a fully functional interior helm station.
• Exceptional 360-degree visibility from the saloon.
• High-grade Finnish construction and joinery.
• Strong resale value and dedicated owner support network.

Cons:

• High freeboard creates significant windage when maneuvering in tight marinas.
• Maintenance of the large windows and extensive teak can be costly.
• Interior helm lacks the "feel" of a mechanical cockpit steering system when under sail.