The Targa 37 has been one of the established models in the weatherproof motorboat segment for years. Now, the Finnish shipyard Botnia Marin is unveiling a completely new version. Unlike previous updates, this is not a facelift but a completely new design. The hull has been redesigned and the interior extensively overhauled. The shipyard promises to retain the boat’s characteristic style whilst incorporating modern details. The interior bears a strong resemblance to that of its bigger sister, the 41.
The new Targa 37 measures 12.55 metres in overall length, with a hull length of 11.42 metres. The beam has been increased to 3.75 metres. According to the manufacturer, this widening is intended to create more usable space and improve stability. The draught is 1.10 metres and the weight is around 9,000 kilograms. The fuel tank holds 1,350 litres and the fresh water tank 250 litres. A 40-litre hot water boiler is included as standard.
The galley has been enlarged and comes as standard with a water tank, a sink, a gas hob and a microwave with a 230-volt connection. A stainless-steel fridge with a capacity of 85 litres is also part of the standard fit-out.
The lower deck offers two different layout options. In the aft cabin, a large hull window with an opening porthole provides natural light. In the fore cabin, as with other models from the shipyard, you can choose between a double berth and a V-berth. Both cabins have their own wet room with an electric seawater flush. The aft cabin is also fitted with a shower, which is separated by glass doors. LED floor lighting is standard in all cabins and in the pilothouse.
The enclosed pilothouse forms the central element of the design. It allows for weather-protected driving and offers all-round visibility through large windows. Sunblinds for the windscreen and doors, as well as curtains for the side and rear windows, are included as standard. Three roof hatches with sunshades and mosquito nets provide ventilation. Windscreen wipers with a washer system and a defroster powered by engine heat are also fitted.
The flybridge can accommodate five people and is fitted with a teak table. A full-coverage tarpaulin, as well as covers for the instruments and seats, provide protection from the elements. Stainless-steel handrails are fitted on both sides of the pilothouse roof. Behind the pilothouse is a bridge deck storage box, which can be fitted with a thermostat-controlled cool box as an option.
A version without a flybridge is also expected to be available later this year.
There is a choice of five Volvo Penta diesel engines. Power output ranges from 340 PS (500 kW) for the D6-340 to 480 PS (706 kW) for the D6-480. All variants are available as twin-engine configurations. Depending on the engine configuration, the top speed is between 36 and 44 knots, whilst the cruising speed is between 30 and 36 knots. Fuel consumption figures are not yet available. Standard equipment includes Interceptor trim tabs, which are designed to influence handling.
The new Targa 37 comes as standard with a bow thruster delivering 80 kilograms of thrust and fitted with a backup battery. The electrical system comprises two starter batteries, each with a capacity of 96 ampere-hours (AGM technology), and three service batteries, each with a capacity of 120 ampere-hours (GEL technology). A switch enables cross-connection. A 100-amp battery charger and a 3,000-watt inverter are fitted. 230-volt sockets and USB ports are installed in several locations.
The Targa’s safety equipment includes three automatic bilge pumps and two manual bilge pumps. An automatic fire extinguisher is installed in the engine room, and two manual fire extinguishers are located throughout the boat. A folding bow ladder makes boarding from the water easier. The aft deck is fitted with storage compartments in the corners, which also serve as seats. A teak table for the aft deck is included as standard. LED deck lights and an LED light strip under the roof edge provide illumination.
For an additional charge, options available include a coloured hull finish, a two-tone deck and teak trim on the seat footrests. A full teak deck can also be ordered, as well as sun awnings for the aft and foredecks. A cushioned driver’s seat, a dishwasher and air conditioning are, of course, also on the options list. The cushioned seat in particular never fails to surprise us during tests of other models from this shipyard. For us, it’s a great feature that we’d definitely choose. Technical extras include a generator, bow lights and windlasses for the bow or stern. A bimini top for the flybridge is available.

Editor Test & Technology