BLACK WATCH 37
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 37 ft |
| LWL | 25 ft |
| Beam | 10.5 ft |
| Draft | 5.08 ft |
| Displacement | 15,500 lb |
| Ballast | 4,200.5 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.7 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 44.25 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 38.25 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 15 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 16.42 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 6.94 ft |
| FLforestay | 14 ft |
| Mainsail | 619.6 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 309.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 526.6 sq ft |
About the BLACK WATCH 37
Available also as a keel-centerboarder with a sloop or yawl rig. Keel/CB version draft: BD- 9.3'/2.83m BU:- 3.8'/1.16m Dimensions from builder literature. (1965) Hull, deck cockpit and cabin top are fiberglass. Cabin trunk is mahogany. Without the wood coach roof it's called the TARTAN 37 (HOOD). The HOOD 37, built by Little Harbor Yachts is based on this same design.
The Black Watch 37 is a classic cruising yawl designed by Ted Hood and built by Douglass & McLeod (USA) between 1965 and 1970, with a total production of 32 hulls. This limited-run vessel offers a robust, heavy-displacement platform that appeals to owners seeking a traditional, seaworthy design with significant headroom and interior volume.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and conservative bluewater adventurers who prioritize comfort and stability over high-speed performance. Its heavy displacement and yawl rig make it particularly well-matched for couples or small families seeking a relaxed, safe passage-making experience.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 15500.0 lb, a D/L ratio of 442.86, and a low capsize ratio of 1.69, the Black Watch 37 exhibits strong inherent stability and seaworthiness suitable for offshore passages. Its full/long keel design further enhances tracking and safety in heavy weather, though its moderate SA/D ratio of 15.42 suggests it is a comfortable cruiser rather than a racer.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Tartan 37 and the O'Day 37, as they share similar production eras, heavy displacement characteristics, and a focus on comfortable cruising. The Black Watch distinguishes itself with its specific Ted Hood design lines and yawl configuration, offering a more traditional aesthetic than many of its contemporaries.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the BLACK WATCH 37 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 37ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 5 systems for the BLACK WATCH 37, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BLACK WATCH 37? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your BLACK WATCH 37?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the BLACK WATCH 37
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…