1986 Slocum 37

The Slocum 37 was conceived as a capable bluewater cruising sailboat designed for the realities of offshore sailing rather than the constraints of racing rules. The inspiration for the design comes from the legendary Norwegian double-ended vessels developed by renowned naval architect Colin Archer, whose boats were built to endure the demanding conditions of the North Sea. These traditional working craft represented the pinnacle of practical seagoing design—strong, weatherly, and able to continue operating in the most challenging environments. While boatbuilding has evolved over time, the character of the open ocean remains unchanged, and the Slocum 37 reflects this timeless approach to offshore capability.

Designed with both strength and practicality in mind, the Slocum 37 measures 37 feet overall with a generous 11’8” beam and a 6-foot draft. The hull features heavy displacement and a refined “S”-shaped section, providing a comfortable motion at sea and excellent directional stability. The hull form incorporates an easy turn of the bilge and relatively full garboards, allowing for substantial fuel and water tankage beneath the cabin sole while also accommodating a properly aligned engine installation. The result is a vessel well suited for extended cruising with the storage capacity and structural integrity demanded by offshore sailors.

Although designed with serious passagemaking in mind, the Slocum 37 was never intended to be a purely utilitarian offshore machine. Instead, she balances bluewater capability with cruising comfort, making her equally suitable for relaxed coastal sailing or a quiet weekend cruise. The sail plan incorporates modern sheet winches, slab reefing, and a boomed staysail, allowing the vessel to be handled confidently by a short-handed crew. All primary sail controls and sheet winches are arranged for efficient operation from the cockpit.

Under sail, the Slocum 37 benefits from a fine forward entry and clean underwater profile, free of unnecessary appendages that could create drag. This efficient hull form allows the boat to move well even in lighter air while maintaining the stability and tracking expected of a traditional offshore cruiser.

It is reported that there were (9) Slocum 37(s) built at Hai-O Yacht Building Corp in Tawain with the last hull being built in 1990. The Slocum 37 is a refined version of Stan Huntingford's Rafiki 37.

“Hiraeth” is currently located in New Orleans at the Municipal Yacht Harbor, just a short drive from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). From Lake Pontchartrain, both the Mississippi Sound and the Mississippi River are easily accessible, providing convenient access to outstanding cruising grounds along the Gulf Coast.

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