M 37 Island Hopper: A Mini Review
A quick glance at the sailplan of the M 37 Island Hopper suggests that this catamaran is not built to a conventional cruising formula-the flat-top mainsail set on a mast that's stepped well aft hints at higher than normal performance goals. Asymmetrical daggerboards and retracting rudders add to that impression and the forward sailing cockpit, short bridgedeck, and expansive trampolines confirm it.
The Island Hopper's design purpose is condensed into the name: This is a quick, light boat for dashing between one balmy anchorage and the next. Two double cabins, a small galley, and a nav station occupy the hulls, and there is no enclosed deck saloon. Lounging and dining is al fresco in the open air, under the shade of a carbon-fiber honeycomb hardtop.
High speeds are achieved at the cost of the amenities needed for indoor living-this boat comes in at half the weight of full-cruise cats of the same length.
