1978 Tartan 37 Boat in San Diego, CA 92106 US
Built in 1978
37
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
37 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
37' Tartan 37 '78 "Dawnsea"
The Tartan 37 is still one of the most highly regarded performance cruising sailboats ever built. She is well-engineered, well-built and well-finished. She has been kept in excellent condition over the years and is priced to sell.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
V-berth forward with an enclosed head to port and hanging locker and storage to starboard.
Next aft is the salon which features an L-shaped settee with dinette table to port and a settee with custom storage cabinets (in lieu of a port berth) above and outboard to starboard.
A very functional U-shaped galley is to starboard of the companionway steps and a forward-facing nav station with access to a quarter berth is to port.
Eight opening ports, three deck hatches and two dorade vents keep her well-ventilated and comfortable below decks. She is beautifully finished with teak throughout.
Isotherm 12V refrigerator with freezer (New 2024)
2-burner Hillerange propane stove with oven
Marine Tech propane control
Pressure fresh water system
6-gal water heater (New 2024)
Twin stainless steel sinks with new faucets
Signet wind speed and direction
Signet speed and distance logs
Horizon depth sounder
Ritchie 5” pedestal compass
Furuno GPS
Silva hand-held compass
Raytheon R-20 radar
Uniden VHF radio
Seth Thomas clock and barometer
12V DC and 110V AC
(1) West Marine house battery (2023)
(1) Interstate engine start battery (2023)
Battery parallel switch
Battery monitor
Victron Energy Blue Smart battery charger
Shore power cord
Plow anchor with chain and rode
Ideal manual windlass
Dodger with cover, winch covers, pedestal cover
Anchor and steaming lights
Deck light
Running lights
Bow pulpit
Lifelines and stanchions
Boarding gates
Dock lines and fenders
Swim ladder
Magma BBQ
Outboard mount
Windex
Teak slat cockpit seats
Cockpit cushions
Last bottom paint – 8/2025
Wire standing rigging (All new in 2011)
Aluminum keel-stepped mast
Mainsheet traveler
Reaching strut
Spinnaker pole
Harken Cruising 1 roller furling on headsail
Winches:
(2) Lewmar 48ST 2-speed self-tailing primary winches
(2) Lewmar 44ST 3-speed secondary winches
(2) Barient 32ST 2-speed self-tailing cabin top halyard and utility winches
(1) Lewmar 40 2-speed cabin top mainsheet winch
Sails:
Main with lazy jacks
Roller furling Genoa
3/4 oz spinnaker
Balast Sails blooper
Tides Marine Fast Track for mainsail
All lines led back to cockpit through (6) rope clutches
Fresh water cooled engine
3-blade propeller
Engine alarm
Fuel filter
Raw water sea strainer
Stove and engine fuel shut-off valves
Cockpit engine controls
Thermal and acoustic engine area insulation
Manual CO2 engine fire extinguishing
(1) manual and (1) electric bilge pump
Manual head
19-gal plastic holding tank
(4) life jackets
(2) fire extinguishers
LifeSling
U-shape life ring with MOB pole
All seller’s personal effects on board are excluded from the sale of this vessel.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/7/26 | Initial price | $34,500 |
1978 Tartan 37 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1978 Tartan 37
The Tartan 37, launched in 1978, has garnered a reputation for its impressive blend of performance, comfort, and craftsmanship
Customers consistently praise its robust construction and timeless design, highlighting the quality of materials and attention to detail that Tartan Yachts is known for. Sailors often mention the Tartan 37's excellent sailing capabilities, noting its responsive handling and balanced rigging, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those new to the sport. Its seaworthiness and stability in various conditions are frequently cited as standout attributes, giving owners the confidence to venture out on challenging waters. Many owners appreciate the spacious and well-thought-out interior. The layout typically includes a comfortable salon, functional galley, and private sleeping quarters, making it ideal for extended cruising and family outings. The warm wood finishes and inviting atmosphere further enhance the onboard experience. Additionally, customers frequently talk about the Tartan 37's storied reputation in the sailing community, often highlighting the camaraderie found among Tartan owners and the shared appreciation for these classic vessels. Overall, the Tartan 37 remains a beloved choice for those seeking a reliable and capable cruising yacht, with many owners cherishing the sense of adventure it brings to their sailing life.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Tartan 37 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction, performance, and versatility. Here are some pros and cons associated with the 1978 model:
Pros
Robust Build Quality: The Tartan 37 features a strong fiberglass hull, designed to withstand various sea conditions, making it a reliable choice for both coastal and offshore sailing.
Sailing Performance: Known for its balanced design, the Tartan 37 offers excellent sailing performance. It performs well in various wind conditions, making it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors.
Spacious Interior: The layout provides ample living space, with a comfortable salon, well-designed galley, and multiple sleeping quarters, making it ideal for extended cruising or liveaboard experiences.
Classic Aesthetics: The craftsmanship and timeless design of the Tartan 37 give it a classic look that many sailors find appealing.
Strong Community Support: Being a popular model, there is a robust community of Tartan 37 owners, which can be beneficial for advice, support, and finding parts.
Cons
Weight: The Tartan 37 is relatively heavy for its size, which can lead to slower speeds in light winds compared to lighter designs.
Older Technology: As a boat from 1978, it may lack some modern amenities and systems found in newer models, potentially requiring updates for improved efficiency and comfort.
Maintenance Needs: Older boats typically require more maintenance, both in terms of the hull and the systems on board. This can lead to additional costs and time commitments for owners.
Limited Storage: Although the Tartan 37 has adequate living space, some owners might find the storage options to be limited, especially for longer voyages.
Insulation and HVAC: Depending on past upgrades and maintenance, the insulation and heating/cooling systems may not be up to modern standards, which could affect comfort in extreme weather.
Made For
The 1978 Tartan 37 is an ideal choice for a diverse range of sailing enthusiasts. Its design appeals to both experienced sailors and newcomers alike, thanks to its combination of performance, comfort, and durability. For the Adventurous Cruisers: With a solid build and well-thought-out design, the Tartan 37 is perfect for those looking to embark on long voyages or extended cruising. Its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior make it suitable for living aboard, while the reliable sailing performance ensures confidence on the open water. For the Weekend Sailor: This boat is perfect for families or groups wanting to enjoy leisurely weekends on the water. Its generous accommodations allow for easy overnight stays, ensuring that weekend getaways are both comfortable and enjoyable. For the Racing Enthusiasts: The Tartan 37 boasts excellent handling and speed, making it a delightful challenge for those looking to compete in local races or regattas. Its racing pedigree and responsive design provide an exhilarating sailing experience, appealing to those who thrive on competition. For the DIY Sailor: With a classic design that incorporates a solid construction, the Tartan 37 invites those who enjoy hands-on projects. Its layout and systems offer opportunities for upgrades and customization, making it a great canvas for sailors who like to enhance their vessels. Overall, the 1978 Tartan 37 is for anyone who values a balance of performance, comfort, and timeless elegance on the water, whether for adventure, leisure, competition, or projects.
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 1978 Tartan 37 | |||||
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| $34,500 | $36,000 | $26,500 | $44,500 | $18,000 | $17,500 |
| San Diego | San Pedro | San Diego | San Diego | Alameda | Santa Barbara |
| 37' | 38' | 42' | 31' | 34' | 34' |
| 12' | - | - | - | - | - |
| 7' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Westerbeke | Yanmar | Yanmar | Westerbeke | Universal | Yanmar |
| 40 hp | 30 hp | 50 hp | 18 hp | 24 hp | - |
| 16 | 70 | 13 | 281 | 361 | 139 |
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2330 Shelter Island Drive, Suite 207, San Diego, CA, 92106
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