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Sailboat Specifications

Prior 37

Masthead Sloop · Long Keel

Designed by Alan Buchanan · Built by R. J. Prior & Son Ltd. (Uk) · First built 1963

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LOA 37.00 ft  ·  Beam 10.08 ft  ·  Displacement 15,000.00 lb  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Long Keel
About the Prior 37 Sailboat

Built in 1963 by the respected British yard R. J. Prior & Son Ltd., this rare classic cruiser represents traditional yacht construction at its finest. With only six examples ever built to Alan Buchanan's design, the Prior 37 stands as an exclusive piece of maritime heritage featuring exquisite teak-over-elm planking that exemplifies the craftsmanship of its era. The yacht's long keel configuration and substantial 15,000-pound displacement create exceptional stability and seaworthiness, making it ideally suited for serious offshore cruising and coastal exploration. Her traditional full keel provides excellent directional stability and the ability to take the ground safely, while the masthead sloop rig offers straightforward sail handling and reliable performance in varied conditions. With a comfort ratio of 36.02, this design prioritizes seaworthiness over speed, delivering the steady, secure motion that long-distance cruisers value. The conservative capsize screening formula of 1.64 reflects her inherent stability and suitability for extended ocean passages. Her hull speed of 6.90 knots represents respectable performance for a displacement cruiser of this type. For sailors seeking a rare, traditionally-built yacht with proven offshore capabilities and timeless aesthetic appeal, the Prior 37 offers an increasingly uncommon opportunity to own a piece of British boatbuilding excellence.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 37.00 ft / 11.28 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 26.50 ft / 8.08 m
Beam 10.08 ft / 3.07 m
Max Draft 6.58 ft / 2.01 m
Displacement 15,000.00 lb / 6,804 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction Wood (teak over elm)
Designer Alan Buchanan
Builder R. J. Prior & Son Ltd. (UK)
First Built 1963
Number Built 6
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Prior 37's comfort ratio?

The Prior 37 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 36.02. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Prior 37 safe for offshore sailing?

The Prior 37 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.64. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Prior 37?

The theoretical hull speed of the Prior 37 is 6.90 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Prior 37 weigh?

The Prior 37 has a displacement of 15,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 37.00 ft.

Who designed the Prior 37?

The Prior 37 was designed by Alan Buchanan, first built in 1963.