Safari 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Safari 37 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, weighing in at approximately 17,800 lbs with a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 45%. This mass, combined with a modified full keel, results in a vessel that tracks exceptionally well and offers a predictable, dampened motion in heavy seas. While its displacement-to-length ratio suggests it is not a light-air flyer, the cutter rig provides a versatile sail plan that can be easily depowered or balanced as conditions freshen.

According to technical specifications from BoatSector, the boat carries a reported sail area of 698 square feet. At the helm, owners report a "tank-like" feel; the boat is slow to accelerate but carries significant momentum through a chop, making it less prone to being stopped by head seas than contemporary fin-keel designs. The draft of 5.75 feet is moderate for a 37-footer, allowing access to most cruising anchorages while providing enough bite for acceptable upwind performance.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Safari 37 reflects its era and intended purpose as a long-term voyaging platform. The 11-foot beam is carried well aft, allowing for a voluminous cabin that typically features a traditional layout: a large V-berth forward, a central salon with a drop-leaf table, and a dedicated navigation station. Given the limited production run, some interior finishes vary, though most were delivered with substantial teak joinery and a high-quality fit and finish characteristic of boutique California yards of the 1970s.

Storage is a standout feature, with deep lockers and bilge space designed for extended provisioning. Headroom is generous for a vessel of this vintage, often exceeding 6'2" in the main salon. While no specific multi-cabin "charter" variants exist due to the low production volume, the Safari 37’s layout is often compared to its smaller sibling, the Safari 28, which utilized a similar design philosophy to maximize every inch of usable space for offshore safety rather than dockside entertaining.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Safari 37 as they would any high-quality but aging fiberglass vessel. High-signal areas for inspection include:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many 1970s builds, the Safari 37 utilized a cored deck (typically balsa). Given the age, moisture intrusion around the chainplates or stanchion bases is a common "gotcha" that can lead to delamination if not addressed.
• Osmotic Blistering: Early fiberglass hulls from this era are occasionally prone to osmosis. A professional survey should include a moisture meter test of the hull below the waterline.
• Cutter Rig Hardware: The additional stresses of the inner forestay on a cutter rig mean the stay tangs and deck-level chainplates require careful scrutiny for hairline fractures or corrosion.
• Original Engine Condition: Many units were originally fitted with older diesel engines (such as Universal or Perkins). Buyers should check for recent repowers, as the engine room access, while functional, can be tight for a full swap.

Community & Resources

Due to the extremely low production numbers, there is no formal owners' association dedicated solely to the Safari 37. However, owners frequently share technical data through broader Klaus Grohnert design forums and the Boat History Report database, which tracks the manufacturer's identification code (SFK) for Safari Marine.

The Verdict

The Safari 37 is a formidable, "go-anywhere" sailboat for the sailor who values safety and stability over racing trophies.

Pros:

• Exceptional motion comfort and stability in heavy weather.
• High-quality California fiberglass construction.
• Versatile cutter rig for offshore sail handling.
• Generous interior storage for long-range cruising.

Cons:

• Languid performance in light winds (below 10 knots).
• Rarity makes finding specific spare parts or sistership advice difficult.
• Traditional heavy-displacement handling can be cumbersome in tight marinas.