Wasa 370 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Wasa 370 is defined by its high-performance DNA, characterized by a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 199 and a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio in the 19 to 21 range. These figures place it firmly in the "moderate racer" category, offering significantly more agility than a standard production cruiser. Its hull is notably slim, with a Length/Beam (L/B) ratio of roughly 3.46, allowing it to slice through chop with minimal resistance.

On the water, the boat is known for being remarkably stiff, a result of its 42% ballast ratio (2,100 kg of lead in a 5,000 kg displacement). This high righting moment allows the 370 to carry full sail longer than its contemporaries and maintain a "straight-up" attitude even in freshening conditions. According to technical assessments from Swedish maritime guides such as Maringuiden, the 370 utilizes a fractional sloop rig and a deep fin keel that provides a high lift-to-drag ratio, making it a "queen of the skerries" for its ability to tack through tight channels with precision. Owners often report that the boat feels responsive and communicative through the helm, owing to its well-balanced spade rudder and relatively light displacement.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Beneath the sleek, low-profile coachroof, the Wasa 370 features a warm, traditional Scandinavian interior dominated by high-quality teak joinery and stainless steel accents. The layout typically centers on a three-cabin configuration, which was ambitious for a 36-foot boat of its era. The arrangement includes a V-berth owner’s cabin in the bow with a length of 200 cm, and two identical aft cabins tucked under the cockpit.

The main saloon consists of two long longitudinal benches flanking a central table, providing berths for additional guests if required. The galley is located to starboard, equipped with a three-burner stove, oven, and refrigerator, while a proper forward-facing chart table sits to port. A key advantage of the Wasa’s construction is its GRP sandwich hull and deck using end-grain balsa core. This design not only provides structural rigidity and weight savings but also serves as excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, reducing condensation in colder Scandinavian waters. While the interior volume is narrower than modern 37-footers, the craftsmanship and "boat-like" feel of the wood remains a major draw for traditionalists.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the specific construction methods used by Wasa Marin in the 1980s and 90s.

• Deck Core Integrity: Because the deck is a GRP/balsa sandwich, any poorly sealed deck fittings (winches, tracks, stanchions) can lead to moisture ingress and core rot. A moisture meter and percussion "tap test" are essential during the survey.
• Rudder and Steering Bearings: The 370 uses a spade rudder which, while providing excellent maneuverability, can develop play in the bearings over decades of use. Check for vibration or excessive movement at the helm.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Wasa 370s were originally fitted with Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesels. Potential buyers should verify the service history of the sail-drive seal (if applicable) and check for signs of galvanic corrosion around the aluminum saildrive leg.
• Window and Hatch Seals: Like many yachts of this vintage, the plexiglass windows can develop leaks. Owners have noted that the sealant can degrade over time, requiring a full re-bedding to prevent interior teak damage.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the original shipyard, Wasa Yachts, which still operates in Södertälje, Sweden. Having transitioned from a builder to a specialized service center, they maintain significant institutional knowledge and archives for the 370 model. They provide spare parts and comprehensive refit services specifically for the Wasa fleet.

The Verdict

The Wasa 370 is a sophisticated, high-quality Swedish cruiser that excels in light-to-moderate air and rewards an active helmsman.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance and "stiff" sailing characteristics.
• Superior Scandinavian build quality and interior woodwork.
• Effective insulation for cold-weather cruising.
• Retains value well due to limited production and brand prestige.

Cons:

• Narrower beam results in less interior volume than modern yachts of the same length.
• Limited fuel and water capacity compared to dedicated blue-water cruisers.
• Balsa-core sandwich construction requires vigilant maintenance to avoid moisture issues.