1980 Tartan 37
$60,000
Boat in Seattle, WA 98117 US
Built in 1980
37
1 Engine (Westerbeke)
37.3 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1980 Tartan 37 - Tourmaline
Vessel Overview
Tourmaline is a striking example of the legendary Sparkman & Stephens-designed Tartan 37-widely respected as one of the finest performance cruisers of her era. Elegant lines, responsive sailing manners, and timeless proportions make this yacht as impressive under sail as she is at the dock.
This particular vessel is one of the sought-after deep keel Tartan 37s, offering exceptional upwind performance and offshore capability. Thoughtfully upgraded and carefully maintained, Tourmaline blends classic craftsmanship with substantial modern improvements including a fully renewed lithium electrical system, updated electronics, new canvas, refrigeration, plumbing, and recent rigging upgrades.
Currently moored in Seattle's Shilshole Bay Marina, with a transferable slip available to the new owner for up to one year.
Sale also includes a Dyer Dhow fiberglass dinghy complete with sailing package, oars, and Honda 2HP outboard.
Specifications
- Builder: Tartan Yachts
- Designer: Sparkman & Stephens
- Model: Tartan 37
- Year: 1980
- LOA: 37'4"
- LWL: 32'5"
- Beam: 11'9"
- Draft: 6'7" (deep keel)
- Engine: Westerbeke 50 diesel - 41 HP
- Propeller: Max Prop feathering propeller
- Fuel Capacity: 50 gallons
- Water Capacity: 90 gallons
- Holding Tank: 19 gallons
Accommodations
The Tartan 37 remains one of the best interior layouts in her class, offering practical cruising accommodations with rich traditional joinery and excellent storage throughout.
Forward Cabin
- Spacious V-berth with filler cushion
- Hanging lockers port and starboard
- Drawer and cabinet storage
- Chain locker access forward
Head Compartment
- Manual marine toilet
- Stainless steel sink with vanity
- Storage lockers
- Handheld shower
- Overhead shower curtain track
- Dual access from forward cabin and salon
Main Salon
- Straight settee to starboard
- L-shaped settee to port
- Storage behind both settees
- Hanging locker and cabinetry forward starboard
- Teak navigation station aft to port
- Large quarter berth aft of nav station
Galley
Located aft to starboard and designed for safe use underway.
Interior Finish
- Solid teak joinery throughout
- Teak and holly cabin sole
- Warm classic yacht ambiance
Recent Maintenance & Upgrades
2025
- Complete new electrical system
- Victron inverter/charger package: VIC MultiPlus C 12/2000/80-50 120V
- VIC Cerbo GX MK2
- Lithium battery bank installed: Two VIC LiFePO4 Battery 12,8V/200Ah NG
- VIC Lynx Smart BMS 500 NG (M10)
- New AIS transceiver
- New engine raw water strainer/filter
2024
- New bimini with full connector to dodger
- New solar panels and controllers
- New Standard Horizon GX2400 VHF with AIS receiver
- NMEA 2000 network added to helm chartplotter
2023
- Dyer Dhow dinghy package added
- New engine raw water pump
- New running rigging
- New Blue Sea AC/DC electrical panels
- New freshwater plumbing hoses
- New refrigeration system
- New Garmin helm chartplotter
- New solar vent
- Brightwork accents renewed
- New dodger installed
2022
- Exterior brightwork renewed (toe rails & handrails)
- Hauled and bottom painted (Interlux Ultra-Kote)
- Galley sink and faucet replaced
- Head sink faucet replaced
2021
- New marine head
- New holding tank
- New sanitation plumbing
- New Group 27 starting battery
2020
- New SmartPlug shore power inlet
- New Wallas diesel cabin heater
2010
- Hull and deck professionally painted in Awlgrip
- Bottom stripped to bare hull and epoxy sealed
- All new portlights with screens
- Mast rewired
Mechanical
- Westerbeke 4-107 41hp diesel
Navigation & Electronics
- Garmin helm-mounted chartplotter (new)
- Raymarine C120 chartplotter/radar (2008)
- Raymarine Evolution wheel autopilot (2017)
- Simrad IS15 instruments: Speed
- Depth
- Wind
- Tack display
- Cockpit instrument repeaters at helm
- Standard Horizon GX2400 VHF with AIS receiver (2024)
- AIS Class B transceiver (2025)
- Ritchie pedestal compass
Sails
- Neil Pryde Dacron mainsail (2003) Very good condition
- Norlam 135% roller furling genoa - Good condition
- Purple ¾ oz asymmetrical/spinnaker Excellent condition (2015)
Rigging & Deck Hardware
- New running rigging (2023)
- Stainless lifelines (2007)
- Harken 48 self-tailing primary winches
- Harken 30 self-tailing secondary winches
- Lewmar 40 self-tailing halyard winch
- Additional Lewmar winches
- Harken Big Boat traveler
- Harken split drum roller furling
- Navtec hydraulic backstay adjuster
- Forespar rigid boom vang
- Strong Track mast system for easy mainsail hoist
- Spinnaker pole
Ground Tackle
- 44 lb Rocna MKII anchor (new)
- 100' of 3/8" chain
- 200' of 5/8" rode
- Maxwell Freedom 800 electric windlass with remote
Hull & Deck
- Deep fin keel version
- Hull and deck painted in Awlgrip (2010)
- Bottom stripped and epoxy sealed (2010)
- Last haul out and bottom paint: May 2022
Exterior Equipment
- Dodger with stainless grab handles (2023)
- New bimini with connector panel (2024)
- All portlights replaced with screens
- Main sail cover
- Wheel cover
- Companionway cover
- Handrail covers
- Large teak cockpit table with folding leaves
- Dinghy motor hoist
- Swim ladder
- Dock lines and fenders included
Interior Systems
- Wallas diesel forced-air heater (2020)
- Force 10 three-burner propane stove with oven
- Pressurized hot and cold water
- 12-gallon hot water heater
- Accumulator tank
- New refrigeration system (2023)
- Large insulated icebox
- New marine head and holding tank (2022)
- Handheld shower
- Upgraded freshwater plumbing (2023)
- V-berth with 10" foam mattress
Electrical System
Battery Bank
- (2) Victron LiFePO4 12.8V / 200Ah NG batteries (2025)
- (1) Group 27 starting battery (2021)
Victron Energy Management
- Victron Lynx Smart BMS 500 NG
- Victron Cerbo GX MK2
- Victron MultiPlus C 12/2000/80-50 inverter/charger
Charging & Power
- (2) 200W solar panels (2024)
- New solar charge controllers
- New AC/DC breaker panels
- 30A shore power
- SmartPlug inlet (2020)
Additional Systems
- Upgraded cabin lighting
- Electric bilge pump
- Macerator pump
Included Tender Package
- Dyer Dhow fiberglass dinghy
- Sail kit
- Oars
- Honda 2HP outboard motor
Summary
Tourmaline is a rare opportunity to own one of the most admired classic performance cruisers ever built-beautifully updated for modern cruising while preserving the soul and sailing pedigree that made the Tartan 37 famous.
With major recent investments in lithium power systems, solar, electronics, canvas, plumbing, refrigeration, and rigging, she is exceptionally well-positioned for Northwest cruising, club racing, or extended coastal adventures.
A standout vessel with timeless style, proven performance, and serious upgrades.
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/23/26 | Initial price | $60,000 |
1980 Tartan 37 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1980 Tartan 37
Customers express great admiration for the 1980 Tartan 37, highlighting its impressive balance of performance and comfort
Many sailors appreciate its solid construction and classic lines, which not only provide aesthetic appeal but also ensure durability in various sea conditions. Users often mention the spacious and well-thought-out interior layout, noting the ample storage, cozy living quarters, and functional galley that make long passages both manageable and enjoyable. The Tartan 37 is frequently praised for its sailing performance, with owners reporting responsive handling and stability, whether cruising in calm waters or navigating more challenging conditions. Testimonials commonly reflect on the ease of maintenance, thanks to its robust design and quality fittings, as well as the supportive Tartan community that offers resources and camaraderie for owners. Overall, the Tartan 37 is cherished by its sailors for its blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and sailing prowess, making it a beloved choice in the cruising community.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Tartan 37, launched in 1980, is well-regarded among sailing enthusiasts for its blend of performance, comfort, and classic design. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of this iconic vessel:
Pros
Quality Construction: The Tartan 37 is known for its solid fiberglass construction, which contributes to durability and resilience in various sailing conditions.
Performance: Its well-designed hull shape allows for excellent performance under sail, making it a favorite among cruising sailors who also enjoy a bit of racing.
Spacious Interior: The layout maximizes comfort and livability, featuring a roomy salon, a well-equipped galley, and multiple sleeping quarters, ideal for extended cruising or weekend getaways.
Classic Aesthetics: The timeless design of the Tartan 37 appeals to traditionalists, making it a beautiful addition to any marina.
Strong Community Support: The Tartan brand has a loyal following, which means access to a community of current and past owners can be invaluable for advice, support, and camaraderie.
Cons
Age Considerations: Being a 1980 model, potential buyers should carefully assess the condition of any specific boat, as age can lead to wear and tear that needs addressing.
Maintenance Requirements: Older vessels may require more maintenance to keep them in optimal condition compared to newer models, particularly in areas like rigging, electronics, and systems.
Limited Space for Modern Features: While the interior is spacious, some newer boats offer more innovative designs and modern features that may not be present in a 1980 model.
Price Variation: The market price can vary significantly depending on the boat’s condition, maintenance history, and upgrades, sometimes leading to unexpected costs for buyers.
Performance Limitations: While it performs well, some sailors may find that it doesn't match the speed or advanced rigging features of more modern sailboats designed for racing or high-performance cruising.
Made For
The 1980 Tartan 37 is designed for a variety of sailing enthusiasts, from seasoned sailors to those new to the cruising lifestyle. Its versatile performance and robust construction make it appealing to both coastal cruisers and those aspiring to tackle extended offshore voyages. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable weekend getaway on the water or planning an adventurous journey across seas, the Tartan 37 offers a spacious interior and well-thought-out deck layout, ensuring both safety and comfort. It particularly attracts sailors who appreciate classic design coupled with modern functionality. Families, couples, and individuals seeking a reliable vessel for single-handing or shared adventures will find the Tartan 37 to be an ideal companion on their sailing journeys. With its reputation for stability and ease of handling, it’s a great choice for anyone who values quality craftsmanship and a pleasurable sailing experience.
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Other Information about Swiftsure Yachts
In 2002 the partners of Swiftsure Yachts joined to create a full service brokerage for sailors buying or selling high quality boats. A team approach, in-depth expertise and exceptional service are the hallmarks of our business plan and are designed to ensure we meet our customers' expectations.
Boat Location
Contact Swiftsure Yachts about 1980 Tartan 37
2540 Westlake Avenue North, Suite A, Seattle, WA, 98109
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