The Francis Drake 37 is a sailing boat that was designed by Chuck Burns and built by the Francis Drake Yachts company. It is a bluewater cruising sailboat that offers a comfortable and spacious interior combined with excellent sailing performance.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Francis Drake 37:
1. Design: The boat features a classic design with a full keel and a cutter rig. The hull is made of solid fiberglass, providing strength and durability.
2. Dimensions: The boat has an overall length of 37 feet (11.3 meters) and a beam of 11 feet (3.4 meters). It has a draft of 5.5 feet (1.7 meters), which allows for good stability and performance.
3. Interior: The interior of the Francis Drake 37 is designed to provide comfort and functionality. It typically offers a spacious salon with a settee and a dining table, a well-equipped galley, a navigation station, and a head with a shower. The boat can accommodate up to six people in its various berths.
4. Sailing Performance: The Francis Drake 37 is known for its excellent sailing performance. The cutter rig allows for versatile sail configurations, and the boat has a good balance between speed and stability. It is designed to handle various weather conditions and is suitable for long-distance cruising.
5. Storage and Tankage: The boat offers ample storage space for provisions and gear, including lockers and cabinets throughout the interior. It also has a decent tankage capacity for water and fuel, allowing for extended periods of self-sufficiency.
6. Construction and Build Quality: The Francis Drake 37 is built with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. The solid fiberglass hull provides strength and durability, while the deck is typically made of fiberglass with a non-skid surface for safety.
7. Seaworthiness: The boat is designed to be seaworthy and capable of handling offshore passages. Its full keel and heavy displacement contribute to stability and a comfortable ride in various sea conditions.
Overall, the Francis Drake 37 is a well-regarded sailing boat that offers a combination of comfort, performance, and seaworthiness. It is suitable for both coastal cruising and long-distance voyages, making it a popular choice among sailors looking for a reliable and versatile bluewater cruiser.
