Tartan 3700 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Tartan 3700 are defined by its balanced hull form and a sophisticated sail plan that offers a high degree of tunability. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio typically hovering around 18.5, the boat is energetic in light air without becoming overpowered prematurely as the breeze freshens. The hull features a fine entry for upwind efficiency and a relatively flat run aft to enhance stability off the wind.

Handling is widely cited as the model's greatest strength; the boat tracks exceptionally well, a trait often attributed to the deep-fin or Beavertail bulb keel options that keep the center of gravity low. According to technical assessments found in Sail Magazine, the introduction of the Cruise Control Rig (CCR) variant further refined the handling profile. The CCR version utilizes a carbon fiber mast—which significantly reduces weight aloft and minimizes pitching in a seaway—paired with a self-tacking jib and a large reacher. This configuration allows a solo sailor to tack through 80 degrees with a single turn of the wheel, making the 3700 a rare example of a performance boat that does not require a large crew to manage its potential.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Tartan 3700 is a showcase of traditional American craftsmanship, dominated by hand-fit cherry joinery and a layout that prioritizes offshore safety. The two-cabin arrangement is standard, featuring a forward V-berth and a remarkably spacious aft cabin that extends under the cockpit sole. The salon is characterized by a "wraparound" galley to starboard, which provides secure bracing for the cook while underway, and a proper navigation station to port.

The 3700 underwent a notable evolution into the 3700 CCR (Cruise Control Rig). While the hull remained the same, the CCR variant modified the cockpit and deck layout to accommodate the dual-headstay rig. This change influenced the interior experience slightly by moving certain control lines, but the core living dimensions remained consistent. Throughout its production run, Tartan offered various wood finishes and upholstery upgrades, but the 3700 consistently maintained approximately 6 feet 4 inches of headroom in the main salon, a feat for a boat of this sleek profile.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Tartan 3700 has maintained a steady presence in nautical media since its inception, largely due to its repeated recognition in industry awards. Beyond its Boat of the Year win, the model is frequently cited in "Best Used Boat" roundups by editors at Practical Sailor and Sail Magazine, who praise its use of epoxy resin at a time when most production builders were still using polyester. Its reputation as a "gentleman’s racer" has made it a favorite subject for editorialized reviews focusing on the balance between luxury and speed.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Tartan 3700 is built to a high standard, prospective buyers should focus on several specific technical areas common to epoxy-built vessels of this era:

• Deck Hardware Bedding: Like many Tartans of this vintage, the 3700 uses a balsa-cored deck. While the hull is epoxy, any moisture intrusion around stanchions or cleats can lead to core delamination. A professional moisture meter survey of the deck is essential.
• Epoxy "Print-Through": Early epoxy hulls sometimes exhibit "print-through," where the pattern of the fiberglass weave becomes slightly visible in the gelcoat under certain lighting conditions. While usually cosmetic, it is a point for negotiation.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: Some 3700s were equipped with Yanmar saildrives rather than traditional shaft drives. The rubber diaphragms on these units have a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval (typically 7–10 years) that is often overlooked.
• Carbon Mast Inspection: On CCR models, the carbon fiber mast should be inspected for any signs of UV degradation or hairline cracking around the spreaders and masthead, as these components are expensive to repair compared to aluminum equivalents.

Community & Resources

The Tartan 3700 benefits from one of the most robust owner networks in North America. The Tartan Owners Association provides an extensive technical wiki and forum where members share specific maintenance tips for the 3700’s epoxy laminate and carbon rig. Additionally, the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club and Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE) are active regional groups that organize rallies and technical seminars, often with participation from original factory designers.

The Verdict

The Tartan 3700 remains a benchmark for the "performance cruiser" category, offering a level of build quality and material sophistication that few production builders can match at this size.

Pros:

• Advanced Construction: The vacuum-bagged epoxy hull is stiffer and more resistant to osmosis than standard polyester hulls.
• Ease of Handling: The CCR rig option makes it one of the easiest 37-footers to sail shorthanded.
• High Resale Value: Strong brand recognition and "heirloom" build quality keep prices stable on the secondary market.

Cons:

• Balsa Core Vulnerability: The deck requires vigilant maintenance to prevent moisture ingress into the core.
• Price Point: Due to the high-end materials used, the 3700 typically commands a higher price than similar-sized Beneteau or Catalina models of the same age.
• Draft Considerations: The performance fin keel is deep; buyers in thin-water areas must seek out the Beavertail version.