Solaris 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Solaris 37 is defined by its stiffness and "slippery" nature in light air. With a displacement-to-ballast ratio of approximately 38% and a deep 2.40-meter T-keel, the boat exhibits high righting moments, allowing it to carry its full 82-square-meter sail plan well into the upper teens of true wind speed. Editorial tests by major European publications, such as Germany's YACHT, have noted its exceptional pointing ability, often achieving tacking angles of less than 80 degrees while maintaining speeds of 7 knots or better in moderate breeze.

The single, deep spade rudder provides direct, mechanical feedback through the twin steering wheels, a configuration that offers the helmsman an unobstructed view of the jib luff. While newer models like the Solaris 40 have moved toward twin rudders to accommodate wider transoms, the 37’s single rudder is often praised for its "bite" and lack of drag, making the boat feel more like a large racing dinghy than a cruising yacht. The inclusion of a self-tacking jib as standard makes it a favorite for short-handed couples, though the performance-oriented hull responds best when the optional 108% overlapping genoa is utilized for light-air coastal racing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Solaris 37 is a masterclass in Italian joinery, typically finished in light oak or teak with a horizontal grain that emphasizes the vessel's beam. The layout is optimized for a couple, featuring two large cabins and a single head. The forward owner's cabin is particularly notable; by moving the main bulkhead slightly aft, the designers created a "central" bed accessible from both sides—a luxury usually reserved for 45-foot yachts.

A defining structural feature of the interior is the absence of inner liners. Because the furniture and bulkheads are laminated directly to the hull, the boat lacks the "creaks and groans" common in modular builds during heavy weather. The galley is L-shaped and located to port, providing a secure bracing point for the cook when the boat is heeled. While a three-cabin version exists, the two-cabin "Owner" configuration is the definitive version of this model, offering a significantly larger head with a truly separate shower stall and a proper, forward-facing chart table.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Solaris 37 gained significant traction in the Mediterranean "Performance Cruiser" circuit and is a frequent participant in the Solaris Cup, an annual owner-exclusive regatta held in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia. It has been featured extensively in video reviews by European media, most notably by the German outlet Yacht TV, which highlighted the boat's "Noble Italian" aesthetic and high-end build quality as a differentiator from the mass-market brands.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Solaris 37 is built to a high standard, buyers should focus on areas typical of high-performance yachts:

• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Because of the deep 2.40m draft, the keel exerts significant leverage. Inspect the internal stainless steel backing plates for any signs of movement or weeping, especially if the boat has been grounded.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: The 37 features a "flush deck" design with lines led aft through recessed channels. These channels can trap debris and water; ensure that the drain holes are clear and that the organizers haven't developed leaks that might compromise the Airex core sandwich.
• Saildrive Seal: Most models are equipped with the Volvo Penta D1-30 or D2-40. Standard maintenance requires the rubber saildrive diaphragm to be replaced every seven years; verify the age of this seal during survey.
• Rigging Tension: The 37 uses a powerful fractional rig. Check the chainplates—which are composite and integrated into the hull structure—for any stress cracking in the surrounding gelcoat, and verify the standing rigging has been professionally tuned.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Solaris 37 are supported by a tight-knit community centered around the builder’s headquarters in Aquileia. Technical support is primarily facilitated through the Solaris Yachts Official Site and the "Solaris Friends" network. Unlike mass-market brands, technical documentation is often provided directly by the yard, which maintains a comprehensive archive of the structural plans for each hull produced.

The Verdict

The Solaris 37 is a "sailor's boat" that refuses to sacrifice luxury for speed, instead delivering both in a package that remains manageable for a couple. It is an ideal choice for the yachtsman who values structural integrity and aesthetic "cleanliness" over maximum cabin count.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Hand-laminated, vacuum-infused hull with glassed-in bulkheads provides a rock-solid feel.
• Superior Aesthetics: Flush decks and hidden lines give the boat a mini-maxi look that ages gracefully.
• High Stability: Deep keel and high ballast ratio make it a safe, stiff offshore performer.

Cons:

• Deep Draft: The standard 2.40m draft restricts access to many shallow-water cruising grounds and marinas.
• Limited Cockpit Storage: The clean deck layout comes at the cost of locker space, particularly for bulky items like fenders and outboard engines.
• Price Point: Used models command a significant premium over boats of similar age from larger manufacturers.