The Fountaine Pajot MY 37 is a boat that’s more about the journey than the destination. Whatever course you set aboard this cat, don’t be in hurry. Powered by twin 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 diesel inboards, in our tests it maxed out at 20.2 mph. The 37 is a great boat for enjoying the trip, whether underway or anchored in a crystal-clear lagoon. The salon offers an excellent view thanks to a wraparound windshield that extends nearly the full length of the cabin on both sides. An ultrawide aft entry offers easy access in and out. A galley with a double sink, cooktop, oven and cabinets lines the port side, while a convertible dinette/settee and refrigerator reside to starboard. The 16-foot-8-inch beam grants plenty of stability. Air conditioning powered by a 7.5 kW generator will keep everyone cool and comfy.
Our test boat featured two helm stations, including one in the forward salon. Companionways lead in two opposite directions to sleeping quarters below. To port, we found a master stateroom aft and a master head forward. To starboard, a pair of staterooms occupy fore and aft, with a shared head in between. In-hull portlights and overhead hatches usher sunlight below deck.
The aft cockpit is designed for easy access to the water with walkways to the swim platform on both sides of a huge aft stowage locker. And you can option this boat with a motorized platform extension that descends to the water level for easy reboarding.
With a flying bridge that’s nearly as wide as the salon, you can accommodate a crowd aloft, where you’ll find a full hardtop for shade and wraparound seating on the port side for comfort. A dining table lets everyone enjoy refreshments up top while the captain pilots the boat from the starboard helm.
A stainless-steel rail surrounds the catwalks and bow area for safety when going forward to man lines or to anchor the MY 37 in that crystal-clear Caribbean cove.
High Points
- Sleeping quarters for five to eight crew mean you can carry a crowd.
- Cruising range of 711 miles lets you reach remote destinations.
- Second helm in the salon allows the captain to stay dry when skies open up.
Low Points
- Don't count on a lot of speed; this boat is about comfort, not velocity.
- Helm seating on the flying bridge feels too low.
Toughest Competitor
The Aquila 36 ($470,000 with twin Mercury 350 Verados) is a similar-size cat, but it's more of dayboat. It lacks a salon and flying bridge but boasts a 40.1 mph top speed.
Price: $660,000
Available Power: Inboard
How We Tested
Engine: Twin 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 diesels
Drive/Prop: Inboard/22" x 19" Nibral 4-blade
Gear Ratio: 2.43:1
Fuel Load: 237 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Fountaine Pajot/Atlantic Cruising Yachts - Annapolis, Maryland; 844-567-3087; atlantic-cruising.com
