Northshore 370 Sports Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The hallmark of the Northshore 370 Sports is its exceptional balance and responsiveness, a direct result of Scott Jutson’s design philosophy which favors a powerful sail plan paired with a sophisticated underwater profile. Unlike the heavier, traditional cruisers of the same displacement, the 370 Sports utilizes a high-aspect-ratio rig and a lead-bulbed fin keel to lower the center of gravity. This configuration ensures that the boat remains "stiff" under press of canvas, allowing it to point higher than many of its contemporaries.

As noted in editorial evaluations by Mysailing, the vessel’s handling is characterized by a light, communicative helm, particularly when equipped with the oversized steering wheel that allows the helmsman to sit well outboard. The hull's relatively fine entry cuts through chop efficiently, while the broader aft sections provide the necessary stability for downwind surfing in heavy air. In light winds, the generous sail area-to-displacement ratio ensures the boat keeps moving when heavier cruisers have resorted to motoring. For those looking at siblings, the Northshore 369 served as a predecessor, but the 370 Sports refined the deck layout and rig to move away from the older IOR-influenced shapes toward a more modern, slippery hull form.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Northshore 370 Sports belies its "Sports" moniker by offering a warm, well-appointed living space that accommodates families for extended stays. The interior is typically finished in high-grade timbers, usually American Cherry or Teak, which provides a classic feel to a modern hull. The standard layout features a functional L-shaped galley to starboard and a dedicated navigation station to port.

A primary variation of the 370 Sports includes the choice between a two-cabin or a three-cabin layout. The two-cabin version is often preferred by cruisers as it provides a significantly larger head and shower area, along with increased cockpit locker storage. The three-cabin variant, while tighter, makes the boat an excellent platform for racing crews or larger families. Headroom is generous for a 37-foot performance boat, typically exceeding 6'2" in the main saloon. The use of molded headliners and clever lighting makes the cabin feel airy, avoiding the "cave-like" atmosphere found in some dedicated racing machines.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Northshore 370 Sports with a checklist focused on its performance pedigree and construction nuances.

• Rudder Bearings: Given the high loads generated by the performance rig, the rudder bearings can experience wear over time. Buyers should check for excessive "play" in the steering system.
• Chainplates and Rigging: As many of these vessels have been campaigned in offshore races like the Sydney to Hobart or various coastal sprints, the chainplates and standing rigging should be inspected for stress fractures or fatigue.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the Northshore construction is robust, the high-leverage bulb keel requires a pristine join. Any signs of "the smile" (cracking at the leading edge of the keel joint) should be investigated by a surveyor to ensure the structural floors and glasswork remain intact.
• Engine Maintenance: Most units were fitted with Yanmar or Volvo Penta sail-drives. The sail-drive diaphragm is a critical service item that should be replaced every 7–10 years; buyers should verify the last date of replacement.

Community & Resources

The Northshore brand enjoys a dedicated following in the Southern Hemisphere, supported largely by the Northshore Yacht Club, which serves as a repository for technical data and a hub for organized regattas. Owners often share modification tips regarding rig tuning and interior refreshments, reflecting the boat's status as a "modern classic" in the Australian marine landscape.

The Verdict

The Northshore 370 Sports is an ideal choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice speed for comfort. It remains one of the few production boats that can truly claim to be a "dual-purpose" vessel, capable of winning a Saturday club race and departing on a week-long coastal cruise on Sunday.

Pros:

• Superior upwind performance and stiffness compared to mass-market European cruisers.
• High-quality Australian construction with premium interior joinery.
• Versatile layout options suitable for both racing crews and cruising couples.
• Strong resale value due to the enduring reputation of the Scott Jutson design.

Cons:

• Performance-oriented deck hardware may require more frequent maintenance than simpler cruising setups.
• The deep draft (standard on most 370s) can limit access to some very shallow anchorages.
• Market availability is largely concentrated in Australia and New Zealand.