Westerly Typhoon 37 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Typhoon 37 is frequently described by enthusiasts and reviewers as the "peak of Westerly achievement" in terms of handling. According to editorial analysis from Practical Boat Owner, the boat’s performance is defined by its ability to "eat its way upwind," thanks to an efficient bulb fin keel and a balanced spade rudder. It carries a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 21.3, which places it firmly in the category of performance cruisers. This high power-to-weight ratio allows the Typhoon to remain competitive in light airs while its ballast ratio of roughly 36% provides the stiffness necessary to carry its 7/8 fractional rig in a blow.

Owners often report that the boat is exceptionally light on the helm, providing the "magic thrill" of a responsive racer. Unlike many cruisers of its era, the Typhoon tracks with precision and can tack through narrow angles of approximately 80 degrees, a trait highlighted by the Westerly Owners Association. Under power, the original 28hp Volvo Penta 2003 or the later Perkins-based Volvo 2030 typically provides a cruising speed of 6.5 knots, though the boat's true home is under sail, where it is known to surf comfortably and predictably in quartering seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Typhoon 37 reflects a transition period in yacht design, blending traditional British craftsmanship with a more open, airy layout than its predecessors. The joinery is typically finished in high-quality teak or mahogany, providing a warm, classic feel. The standard layout features two cabins: a large V-berth forward with en-suite access to the heads, and a remarkably generous master cabin aft. This aft cabin is often cited as a standout feature, offering a wide double berth and a small settee, though headroom is somewhat restricted under the cockpit sole.

Sibling models and variations are notable in the Typhoon’s evolution. The same Ed Dubois hull was later utilized for the Westerly Regatta 370 (1994–1997), which featured a more radical, contemporary interior designed by Ken Freivokh, and the Westerly Ocean 37 (1998–2000), which reverted to a more traditional cruising layout. While most Typhoons were built with the two-cabin "owner's" configuration, a three-cabin version exists, though it sacrifices the expansive galley and chart table space that many owners consider the boat's best features. The galley is L-shaped and located to port, designed for use at sea with deep sinks and ample bracing points.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Typhoon 37 has maintained a cult-like status within the UK sailing community. It is famously referenced in the Westerly Owners Association Definitive Guides with the humorous adage: "Marry a Fulmar by all means, but get a Typhoon as your mistress!"—a nod to its more exciting and provocative sailing characteristics compared to the more conservative Westerly Fulmar 32. It has also appeared in various "Top 100" lists by UK marine publications like Yachting Monthly, consistently praised for balancing the requirements of a family cruiser with the soul of a racing yacht.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several technical areas specific to the Typhoon and the materials of its era:

• Headlining "Westerly Droop": Like many boats from this builder, the foam-backed vinyl headlinings are prone to sagging as the foam degrades over 20–30 years. Many Typhoons have already had this replaced with modern wooden slats or new panels.
• Steering Linkage: The Typhoon utilizes a Whitlock Cobra 5R steering pedestal. High-signal reports in owner forums suggest checking for play or a "grinding" noise in the pedestal bearings, which may require a specialized overhaul if original.
• Engine Age: Early models were fitted with the 28hp Volvo 2003, which is a raw-water cooled unit in some configurations and can suffer from internal scaling. Later models with the freshwater-cooled Volvo 2030 are generally considered more desirable for long-term reliability.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hull is solid hand-laid GRP, the deck is a GRP sandwich. There are conflicting reports on whether balsa or foam was used for the core; regardless, all hardware mounts should be inspected with a moisture meter to ensure no water ingress has softened the core around the stanchion bases or tracks.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and history is the Westerly Owners Association (WOA), which maintains an extensive "Westerly-Wiki" and a repository of original drawings and tuning guides for the Ed Dubois performance range. Owners also benefit from the Ed Dubois Design Archive, which occasionally provides insight into the hull's original performance curves and stability data.

The Verdict

The Westerly Typhoon 37 is a rare "best of both worlds" yacht, offering the heavy-duty construction of a traditional British yard with the sophisticated performance of a world-class naval architect.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and light, responsive helm.
• Robust build quality with a Lloyds Hull Construction Certificate.
• Spacious, high-quality teak interior suited for long-term liveaboard comfort.
• High resale value due to rarity and a strong owner association.

Cons:

• Restricted headroom in the aft cabin compared to more modern, high-volume cruisers.
• Limited production run makes finding one on the used market difficult.
• Potential for "Westerly droop" headlining issues if not already rectified.
• Small original fuel and water capacities for extended blue-water voyaging.