Design and Construction
Jeppesen gave the X-37 finer bow sections than older X-Yachts models and a slightly narrower hull with the maximum beam carried slightly farther aft, a shape that trades a little volume forward for cleaner entry and more midbody stability finer bow sections in comparison to the older X-Yachts models. Both hull and deck are built in sandwich construction, a method chosen to save weight and produce a very rigid structure that reduces condensation in both hot and cold climates. The boat also incorporates a full inner deck liner and one-piece fiberglass head compartments with bilge pans in the cabin sole. The rudder is a deep spade using laminar-section foil geometry, which the test crew credited with eminent steering control.
Rig and Sail Plan
The X-37 is a fractional sloop carrying a 470-square-foot North mainsail and a 369-square-foot high-aspect furling jib as standard, with a self-tacking jib of 293 square feet and a 135-percent genoa of 462 square feet available. The new mast section proved very stiff in both directions during trials. Under the 29-horsepower Yanmar 3YM30FC three-cylinder diesel on an S-drive with a two-blade Flex-O-Fold folding prop, the boat made roughly 7.8 knots at 2,500 rpm made approx 7.8 knots. Under sail, upwind boat speed varied between 6.8 and 7.2 knots; with the 1,149-square-foot all-purpose spinnaker hoisted downwind, the speedometer read between 8 and 10.6 knots shy reaching.
Accommodations
Buyers could specify two interior classic layouts: a two-cabin version with either one or two heads, or a three-cabin version with a single head. The deck inner liner and molded head compartments give the interior a modern, integrated feel rather than a paneled-over framework.
The Verdict
The X-37 is a focused performance cruiser that borrowed the mature systems of its larger sisters and wrapped them around a lighter, finer-bowed hull. It is quick under both engine and sail, stiff aloft, and well mannered on the helm, with a construction approach aimed at rigidity and climate stability. The trade-off is a narrowish hull and a deep rudder that favors performance over shoal-water access.
Pros
- Finer bow sections and aft-shifted beam for clean entry and midbody stability
- Sandwich hull and deck for weight savings and rigidity with reduced condensation
- Stiff mast section and laminar-section deep rudder for precise control
- Strong speed range: ~7.8 kt motor, 6.8–7.2 kt upwind, 8–10.6 kt downwind with spinnaker
Cons
- Standard 6.5-foot draft limits shoal anchorage and grounding tolerance
- Narrower hull shape reduces interior volume versus beamier contemporaries
