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For Immediate Sale 1978 36” Islander sailboat Diesel. Been docked at Safe... more

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Imported by Sven Svendsen. 2023, mast removed with new standing rigging... more

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Beneteau First 36 review: Is this the best First yacht in years?

• Toby Hodges
• March 14, 2023

Is the Beneteau First back to its iconic best with the new lightweight, sporty cruiser-racer for all levels of sailors, the Beneteau First 36?

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

You might not appreciate it at first glance, but this could well be the best performance production yacht we’ll see for some time. This realisation creeps up on you slowly, and is further confirmed the more time you spend aboard the new Beneteau First 36.

I’m far from alone in thinking this and the Beneteau First 36 won the highly competitive performance category in this year’s European Yacht of the Year competition – and with unanimous votes from the 12-strong jury.

The Beneteau First 36 is neither brash nor sexy. Rather, it’s modest, simple even, but, as you soon discover, ergonomically brilliant. It’s not perfect of course – a comparatively small and fiddly heads compartment ensures that – but it is a superb marriage of design, engineering and industrial nous. All of which begs the question, is this finally a return to the dual purpose cruiser-racer roots of the First?

First and foremost

What’s in a name? A lot. More than 25,000 yachts in over 70 different model formats have launched bearing the First branding over the last 45 years. These boats gained a reputation for offering cruising comfort combined with race-winning potential, all at an acceptable price point. That hasn’t really been the focus for many years – until now perhaps.

This Beneteau First 36 was conceived initially in 2018 by Seascape, the sportsboat specialists which Groupe Beneteau bought and rebranded the year before. It became a major collaboration between the brands, their designers and engineers. This is the Slovenian yard’s first new Beneteau, tasked with reviving that dual purpose ethos of First and designed to bridge the gap between its sportsboats and the larger, more luxurious French-built Beneteau First 44 and Beneteau First 53 .

The First 36 is arguably the only mainstream production cruising yacht that can plane in moderate winds. Twin rudders allow you to push but remain in control. Photo: Beneteau First/Ana Šutej

Seascape founders and mini Transat sailors, Andraz Mihelin and Kristian Hajnšek, have collaborated with Sam Manuard on all their designs to date. The racing scene has since caught up and Manuard is now the in-demand Class 40 and IMOCA 60 designer.

Mihelin defines their creation concisely: “It’s designed with one purpose: to motivate people to sail more.” That’s quite the task! Yet since I first sailed with Mihelin on their debut Seascape 18 in 2009, we have seen and frequently discussed how sailing has changed. The desire for space and comfort has driven a burgeoning multihull market, while the planing monohull market has been left largely to a few skilled niche yards such as Pogo and JPK.

Get people sailing

Typically, when you crave the conditions to really send a yacht, you get no such luck. I had two trials out of La Rochelle, where we spent the majority of the time in single figure windspeeds. That said, there was plenty of opportunity to see just how easily driven – and easy to drive – this design is, and to learn more about how it achieves that from the designers and builders who joined us on board.

Simple but really neat control lines led to hand. Photo: EYOTY/Ludovic Fruchaud

The light breezes dictated that our preferred option was to reach whenever possible with a big (140m2) blue gennaker, where we could induce some heel and make average speeds of 8-8.5 knots. The Beneteau First 36 is designed to hit double figures in around 14 knots wind and we noted how it starts planing in the high 8-knot boatspeeds in around 12 knots wind.

It also has the stability and control to keep plenty of sail up when speed reaching. A couple of my fellow European Yacht of the Year jury members did get to sail it in 20 knots and recorded figures of 10-13.5 knots under Code 0 at 90° and up to 14.5 knots under kite at 120°. That’s rapid for an 11m monohull.

The Beneteau First 36 is also quick upwind, even in the light stuff, where we typically made around 7 knots in these conditions, although it’s not one for pointing too high – start to pinch (less than 45° true) and you quickly sacrifice half a knot.

The sporty feel on the helm and how it moves on the water is the real take away. It’s a light boat with plenty of rocker and is responsive to longitudinal weight distribution, so crew weight distribution will be important when racing. Nevertheless, on the second day in slightly lighter breezes and with eight people aboard, we maintained a consistent 7.5 knots, occasionally touching 8 knots with the gennaker (with little attention to crew weight positioning!).

Manuard’s powerful hull shape uses reverse sheer for a low look. Photo: EYOTY/Ludovic Fruchaud

It’s the ease of that speed that stood out. For a 36ft boat to be averaging high rather than mid single figures, is the difference between sporty and displacement sailing. That translates to a significant increase in fun factor too. The First has a very high sail area to displacement ratio and although it’s technically a planing/high performance boat, it doesn’t look like one whether on or below decks.

How do they do that?

The mastery lies in the engineering and build. The Seascape team has produced an impressively light standard boat, a fully cored, vacuum infused hull and deck with sandwich bulkheads. Everything is structural with no needless weight. It’s closer to specialist race boat building than the more industrial methods its parent company specialises in, yet without the expensive exotic materials. The wide but short foam cored swim platform weighs just 8kg for example, and the overall light displacement is under 4.8 tonnes.

Article continues below…

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“There’s no silver bullet here, it’s lots of small things,” Mihelin comments. All scantlings were optimised by Kiwi specialists Pure Design and Engineering and adapted by Manuard and Hajnšek to within labour cost targets.

The ease with which you can maintain good speeds on the water is one thing, but then there’s the ease of sailing the boat. As the boat’s interior designer Lorenzo Argento proved, you can spend long periods reaching with no hands on the wheel as it tracks along effortlessly. He is so impressed he has bought a Beneteau First 36 for his 60th Birthday.

The First 36 is a great deal of fun to sail. Photo: EYOTY/Ludovic Fruchaud

In fact, there was very little pressure increase in helm on all angles, whether sailing upwind under jib at 7 knots, or beam reaching with the code 0 at 8.5 knots. “Sam’s brief was that we don’t want a boat that’s hard to sail,” says Mihelin.

The Jefa steering links to high aspect rudders on stainless steel stocks. Were twin rudders really needed on this, as it’s not an overly beamy shape? A well mannered boat is part of the core brief, Manuard replies, adding that with this type of hull shape even pros would struggle to control it with a single rudder when pressed.

Manuard has found fame with his scow bow shapes so I was also curious if he’d considered that approach here. “We thought it out of the scope of the boat – it’s not an extreme racer,” he explains. “The scow comes with negatives, the slamming is really difficult to bear… the biggest point of this boat is that it suits a lot of people.”

Warmth of wood. The compact galley has adequate stowage, particularly in the raised lockers and bin outboard of the sink. Photo: Branko Ceak

The designer used reverse sheer as a styling and space trick, to keep the bow and stern comparatively low (the latter to avoid a bulky appearance), yet maintain reasonable coachroof height for access. The deck design is also deliberately simple. “It’s one of the reasons we threw out a tiller system,” says Mihelin, explaining that the Beneteau Group has a lot of customer and user data, and knew that 90% of 37.7s were sold with wheels.Nevertheless, a tiller is an option many racing and short-handed sailors would love to have on this boat.

Keep it simple

The clean, working cockpit transforms from cruising to racing mode by removing the aft sets of cockpit benches and table, leaving just the short forward benches. This not only jettisons some weight but frees up key space to work the sheets, particularly the primary winches, where there is then space enough to stand and grind.

The navstation is comfortable and a good size, although you lose seated headroom outboard, and the saloon is generous and comfy. Photo: Branko Ceak

A prime benefit of creating a lightweight shell is that you can take weight out of the appendages too. Here a 1.5 tonne cast iron keel and unfussy Z-Spars aluminium rig comes as standard, while a square top main was rejected because it adds weight to the mast and the additional complication of runners.

All running rigging is left exposed, led aft to a bank of six clutches each side of the companionway. The jib sheets are led through low friction rings, controlled via in- and outhaul purchase systems each side, to give full cockpit control of jib sheet leads and angles with minimal weight. Tail bags help keep the cockpit and companionway area tidy and the six-winch layout is designed to allow cross-sheeting of all sheets to the windward side.

There’s a slot in front of the wheels to work the mainsheet winches, and without the aft benches, more space to sit and trim the main or jib. The traveller controls and backstay purchase are led neatly to camcleats here too, within reach of trimmer or helm.

The stanchions are through-bolted with supports for hiking crew, while an offshore hatch on the foredeck provides bracing if changing headsails. On deck stowage is in a quarter locker and one large main aft locker, from where the steering gear is accessed.

simple, no frills forward cabin has 6ft headroom up to the berth, a single locker and raised shelving. Photo: Branko Ceak

Lightweight performance yachts are typically stripped or have a very minimalist feel, an impression you certainly don’t get here. The Beneteau/Seascape team has been clever in maintaining a feeling of warmth and a certain level of cruising comfort needed for a dual-purpose boat.

The surprising part is perhaps how this is achieved, in that many of the kilos that have been saved, by using sandwich bulkheads rather than any structural plywood for example, are added back in the form of proper doors, tables, wooden floors and trim. It makes a difference between cruising and camping aboard.

Key criteria were to include a proper navstation for racing with a chart table large enough to be used as an office desk, and a three cabin only layout. The thinking is that a two cabin yacht of this size would typically have a stowage area in place of the third cabin, whereas here the identical aft cabins are adaptable and can both be used either as doubles or a single with large work cabin/stowage space.

Overall, the interior is kept symmetrical and simple with easy flowing access. The central island, with its integral two-level fridge, is an excellent feature. Conceived by Argento, it provides bracing where you need it most, yet a clear passage each side, which will be valuable for moving or stacking sails. A large wooden chopping board extends work surface space by joining the island to the sink or chart table.

Aft cabins are clever as they can be used as doubles or work cabin/stowage space. Photo: Branko Ceak

The saloon has long, sleepable berths with particularly comfortable cushions, however, with tanks below the berths, practical accessible stowage is found wanting. An angled V-shaped entrance to the forward cabin and heads helps extend the saloon and there is decent space at both ends of the table to sit or walk around.

The small heads compartment and decision to go with a door that opens inwards will be an area of contention, and the lack of separate shower a potential deal breaker. The solution is more reminiscent of an airline- or train-style toilet. While it is possible to shut the door after you, it takes a bit of practice and larger crew will need contortionist skills. The folding sink is neatly done, with a drop down mirror above it, but it leaves you questioning the long term practicality and durability of such a fitting.

Build quality is impressive. The Beneteau First 36 has a vacuum infused Vinylester hull and deck and a Corecell foam core. “Using foam helped us take 200kg out of the hull”, says Seascape’s CTO Hajnšek, adding that Pure Design helped them to get rid of balsa as a core. The lightweight sandwich technique results in all the liners weighing just 60kg for (an estimated 200kg saving).

Seascape will know better than any that it can shed another 300-500kg by removing timber and using a different keel. It leads one to think there’ll be a turbo edition of this model in the future, with tiller, water ballast and foam cored furniture.

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The First 36 strips away sailing complexities in an effort to ensure it can be fun for crewed racing and short-hand sailing. This is the planing boat amateur sailors can enjoy. It’s no glitzy head turner, we’ve yet to see how it will rate and perform on the race course, and it’s fairly basic with small tanks for cruising. However, it still firmly ticks the cruiser-racer box. It’s built with production ‘standard’ (non-exotic) materials, and thanks to good design and engineering, it delivers on the water. Is this a new First icon then? The First marque used to dominate the value-for-money cruiser-racer sector, and this model arguably takes us back to those roots. And yet the 36 introduces another factor above these – high performance that is approachable enough to encourage fun for all levels of sailors. The heads is arguably a mistake and will be inconvenient for larger crewmembers. I also wonder if they can be built quickly enough to this standard, while hoping that the more sustainable materials Beneteau is already employing on its First 44 can be used for this model soon too. But how refreshing! A stiff, planing boat that puts the focus back on sailing is surely the way to go. Easy speed equates to more sailing time. The 36 is indeed class. First class.

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10 New Cruising Sailboats Under 35 Feet

• By Cruising World Staff
• Updated: November 3, 2020

It wasn’t so long ago that 30- to 35-foot cruising sailboats were likely to be the largest yachts found in many a harbor. And while 40-something and even 50-something footers are all the rage at boat shows today, there’s a lot to be said for setting sail on a boat big enough to carry family and friends, but still small enough to be easily maintained and handled alone from time to time. Small cruising sailboats are simple to dock or tie up to a mooring, and finding long-term marina space is easier as well.

Choosing a cruising sailboat, no matter the size, is a big decision. And it helps to have a trusted list of boats to get started. Here, then, is a look at 10 of the best daysailers , weekenders and coastal cruising sailboats under 35 feet that are all in production and can be purchased new.

Alerion Sport 30

A quarter-century ago, Garry Hoyt launched what would come to be known as the daysailer genre with the introduction of the Alerion Express 28, a boat designed by the late Carl Schumacher that featured a minimal interior and a large cockpit where an owner and guests could enjoy the simple joy of sailing. Traditional and lovely looking—but with a quite modern underbody and a powerful sail plan—Hoyt, ever the marketer, proclaimed the boat to be “the prettiest girl at the dance.”

Since then, a number of siblings ranging from 20 to 41 feet have been added to the Alerion family, including the Alerion Sport 30, which retains the graceful sheer line, oval ports and stylish overhangs of the original Schumacher design. Yet with input from naval architect Langan Design Partners, it also embraces a solid measure of performance-oriented DNA.

Read more about the Alerion Sport 30 »

Bavaria Cruiser 34

In every Boat of the Year contest, it seems, a boat rises up after sea trials to make a lasting impression on the judges. For 2018, that boat was the Bavaria Cruiser 34.

Says Boat of the Year Judge Tim Murphy, “The Bavaria was a lovely boat to sail. It has a single rudder, and she answered her helm just beautifully in the conditions we had today. We started off with around 10 knots of breeze that built to 13 to 15 knots. As a sailboat, it was just a pleasurable sailing experience, among the best we had during our judging. It was among the boats that felt like a really happy sailing experience.

Read more about the Bavaria Cruiser 34 »

Beneteau Oceanis 30.1

Sailed as part of the 2020 Boat of the Year sea trials, the 31-foot-3-inch Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 was the compact yacht best-equipped and spec’d out as a dedicated cruising boat, and not coincidentally, it was also awarded the title of Best Performance Cruiser for 2020. But don’t let her cozy interior accommodations fool you; this is also one peppy little vessel.

Read more about the Beneteau Oceanis 30.1 »

The 2017 Boat of the Year (BOTY) contest featured a stellar crop of crossover cruiser/racers; however, when all the testing was said and done, our independent panel of judges was sold on the Dehler 34, naming it the year’s Best Performance Cruiser. Designed by the highly regarded Judel/Vrolijk naval-architecture consortium, whose reputation was fostered by longtime success in international yacht-racing circles, the 34-footer combined contemporary good looks and a sweet turn of speed with better-than-average comfort and accommodations below. It didn’t hurt that the boat, nicely equipped at $215,000, was the least-expensive entry in the entire 2017 fleet. All in all, it proved to be a winning formula.

Read more about the Dehler 34 »

Dufour Grand Large 360

Dufour Yachts introduced its new 360 Grand Large model to CW’s Boat of the Year team in 2018 as a coastal cruiser intended for a couple or perhaps a small family. With that in mind, judge Alvah Simon found numerous clever elements to praise within the boat’s 35-foot-2-inch hull—a relatively modest LOA compared to the many 40-, 50- and 60-footers on display at the U.S. Sailboat show in Annapolis, Maryland.

Read more about the Dufour Grand Large 360 »

After a roughly 10-year hiatus from the U.S. marketplace, the Slovenian builder Elan is back in a big way. For the 2017 Boat of the Year contest, the company launched a pair of new boats in the States, including the Elan E4, a 34-foot-9-inch performance cruiser with an emphasis on performing, designed by renowned British naval architect Rob Humphreys. The brand has been in business for seven decades and lately is perhaps even better known in America for its skis. Not surprisingly, given its complementary product lines—lots of sailors are fine skiers—its boats are as sleek and sporty as its boards.

Read more about the Elan E4 »

Grand Soleil 34

Way back in the 1970s, when the well-known Italian boatyard Grand Soleil was just getting started, its first model was a Finot-designed 34-footer. With over 300 units sold, it was an instant success, and launched the company on an upward trajectory that spanned the intervening decades, mostly with an ongoing series of much larger, more complex racer/cruisers. For 2020, the builder decided to return to its roots with a completely revamped Grand Soleil 34, and it’s a terrific boat.

Read more about the Grand Soleil 34 »

Value. How does one determine it? Price is most certainly a factor. In the case of new boats, and our Boat of the Year competition, it means something more. As sailors, we wish to recognize good boats that not only are affordable but offer other, tangible rewards. The ability to get couples and families out on the water, to have a weekend escape, to take them on coastal vacations and even maybe a sabbatical to the islands, all without breaking the bank. For 2019, the judging panel determined that one boat had the potential to do these things better than the rest, which is why they awarded the Best Value prize to the Hanse 348.

With a price tag under $200,000, during sea trials the Hanse 348 wowed the judging team from the get-go. “In only about 8 knots of breeze, we were seeing 5.7 knots upwind and pointing very nicely, and even registered 6.5 knots once we cracked off,” said Tim Murphy. “It’s a pretty sweet little boat.”

Read more about the Hanse 348 »

Italia 9.98

Of the performance cruisers that made their North American debut in 2020, in terms of sheer appearance, the futuristic 34-foot Italia 9.98 was easily the most distinctive. There are actually two versions of the boat: the 34 Club—which is the cruising alternative, the primary features of which are its twin wheels—and the 34 Fuoriserie—the racing model, and the one we tested, with its tiller steering being the identifying characteristic.

Read more about the Italia 9.98 »

Beginning with the popular little J/24 way back in 1977, J/Boats has become famous for its steady introduction of terrific racing and cruising boats, almost all of which shared one main characteristic: They sailed like a witch. More than four decades later, having built more than 50 separate, mind-boggling models, the Johnstone family that designs, markets and sells the brand shows no signs of slowing down. Their latest offering, for 2020, was another fast and fun racer/cruiser: the 32-foot-7-inch J/99.

Read more about the J/99 »

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36 Sport Power Catamaran

The Aquila 36 Sport is a totally innovative approach to having fun on the water. An outboard propelled power catamaran that can day boat with a multitude of revelers and all their water-toys or provide complete privacy for two couples on an adventure to newfound destinations, all with a multitude of options that support everything from invigorating watersports to sportfishing.

Available with a sport windscreen, full windscreen to the hardtop or fully enclosed helm deck with air conditioning (cruiser package option), the Aquila 36 Sport can accommodate most conditions.

The controls are strategically positioned to give the operator complete command of the vessel and the Mercury Joystick Piloting option makes docking and close-in maneuvering intuitively simple. Easily operated and safely able to manage open seas, the Aquila 36 Sport is in a class of its own.

Read on for details on cruiser package option and the fishing/diving version.

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Aquila 36 Sport VIDEO – FEATURING Hydro Glide Foil System™

Want to see the Aquila 36 Sport  with Hydro Glide Foil System ™ in action? Check out the full performance evaluation and walkthrough by BoatTEST as they put this model and innovation to the test.

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Now Available as a Cruiser

Enjoy maximum comfort and control with the new cruiser package option. Featuring an aft 3-panel tempered glass sliding door which can be locked into place, the cruiser package option allows you the ability to close off the entire salon and galley for increased privacy, security, and relaxation. In addition to the improved climate control and aesthetics, the Aquila 36 Sport cruiser option offers accent wood in the salon, and Infinity carpet throughout the salon and galley. The already stellar Aquila 36 Sport now provides more luxury than ever before.

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Regardless of the type of vessel you are looking for, having the capability and the confidence to access the beach directly is a huge advantage. Munson Boats are designed to be beached – over and over again. Rocky shorelines and concrete boat ramps are commonly used for landings (disclaimer – don’t hit the concrete any harder than necessary and use common sense). Munson Boats are well known for taking a beating that would destroy most boats. Over the years, many have survived hurricanes, tornados and floods that bust them loose, send them adrift and deposit them up on the rocks.

Like all Munson Boats, our 36’ landing craft features a welded aluminum hull made with no less than 1/4″ aluminum plate. We double that where the boat meets the beach to give you a full half-inch of metal. In the world of 36 foot boats, there is only one boat with all of the advantages of a Munson.

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Model: 36-16 Fire

Blaine, WA: BP Cherry Point is the largest refinery in the Pacific Northwest. The refinery is supplied mainly by tankers transporting North Slope crude oil from Alaska. This 36’ Munson is outfitted for both fire/rescue as well as oil spill response. A Hale 1500 GPM fire pump is plumbed to a rooftop monitor and bow monitor. A Northern Lights 12kW generator has a hydraulic PTO to run portable oil skimmers. The large heated cabin includes seating for 8 persons, head compartment, microwave and convertible settee for transporting insured patients. Twin Yamaha 425’s are installed with Yamaha’s Helmmaster EX joystick piloting system with dynamic positioning capability. A 12V bow thruster and Flir infrared camera complete the package.

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Model: 36-15 Water Taxi

Bellingham, WA: Island Opportunity Charters provides water taxi and freight services throughout the San Juan Islands.   Their 36’ Munson is USCG certified for 12 passengers plus 3500 lbs of freight on the front deck.   Outfitting includes a port & starboard side boarding doors, head compartment, Webatso cabin heater, Raymarine navigation electronics, stereo, washdown pump and trim tabs.   She is a beast in rough water providing comfort and safety to passengers and crew. Twin 300 HP outboards provide plenty of power for transporting heavy loads.

Model: 36-14 Patrol

Kingston, NY: The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office selected this 36’ Munson catamaran for law enforcement and dive/rescue operations. Outfitting includes 3 side dive doors, 3 dive ladders, tank rack for 10 dive bottles, lifting eyes, davit, tow post and engine guard. The cabin is outfitted with a Webasto forced air cabin heater, Dometic roof top air conditioner, pilot & co-pilot suspension seats and American Safe Room CBRNE positive pressure filtration system. Electronics include Raymarine Axiom radar/plotter/sounder with AIS, Garmin auto-pilot, Whelen siren and Flir M Series thermal imaging camera.

Model: 36-13 Military

Patrick Air Force Base, FL: The 308 th Rescue Squadron consists of Combat Rescue Officers and enlisted Pararescuemen, known as PJs.   They selected this 36’ Packcat to provide water rescue capabilities to recover downed aircrew as well as provide humanitarian and disaster relief activities.   Outfitting includes a 1000 lb. lifting davit, tow post, engine guard, dive bottle rack, dive ladder and anchor windlass.   Electronics include a Garmin 16” touchscreen with 18” radome, Flir M Series thermal imaging camera, and VHF with hailer horn. A 12V Warn winch was installed on the front of the console to assist in pulling objects on board via the bow door.

Model: 36-12 Expedition

Cordova, AK: This 36’ Munson Expedition Landing Craft was built to explore the remote areas of Prince William Sound for several weeks at a time. Outfitting includes two roof mounted Mokai jet powered kayaks, two 60 watt solar panels, a Maxilift crane with wireless remote and 12v crab pot puller, ATV tie down points in the main deck with vessel mounted rotopax fuel canisters. A full galley is built into the aft deck with an integrated dish drying rack, cutting boards, and commercial grade sink faucet, propane stove and grill. An insulated fish hold is built into the main deck for cold storage and two large under deck holds provide storage for dry goods. The cabin is equipped with a hydronic heater, integrated clothes drying rack, hammock attachment points and outfitted with a storage rack and traditional campaign furniture.

Model: 36-11 Sport

Stuart Island, BC: Fisherman’s Landing & Lodge lies between northern Vancouver Island and the British Columbia Coast and is only accessible by boat or float plane. Their 36’ Munson is set up for sportfishing charters with seating for 6 passengers, overnight accommodations for two, head compartment with hot water shower, galley with sink, stove and refer, aft control station, side boarding doors, davit with pot puller, 12V bow thruster and SeaStar Optimus 360 joystick control system.

Model: 36-10 Water Taxi

Vancouver, BC: Crosby Marine Film Services operates several Munson Boats used for a wide range of major film and television projects. Their 36’ Packcat is Transport Canada certified for 12 passengers and incorporates three control stations with Mercury joystick controls. The large heated cabin includes a head compartment, four-person settee with work table and folding passenger seating to make room for gear. The covered aft cockpit includes a rear helm station, side boarding door, Yeti cooler and seating for up to 6 passengers. The large bow deck includes seat/storage lockers, bow control station, side boarding door and hydraulic bow door. Mercury Skyhook digital anchoring provides station keeping for film work.

Model: 36-9 Dive

Kingston, NY: The NYSP Dive Team is the largest law enforcement public safety dive team in the United States. Their 36’ Munson includes a hydraulic bow door with two dive ladders, port & starboard side doors, tank rack for 14 dive bottles, lifting eyes, davit, tow post and engine guard. The cabin is outfitted with forced air heater, rooftop air conditioner, black out shades and folding radar arch. Electronics include Garmin radar/plotter/sounder, Flir thermal imaging camera, back up camera and Mercury joystick piloting system with Skyhook digital anchor.

Model: 36-8 Dive

Lanai, Hawaii: Lanai is world famous for its diving. Outfitting for the 36' Munson includes port and starboard dive doors, 8 dive bottle racks, port and starboard dive ladders, swim platform, Bauer Jr. ll electric air compressor, flip out dive ladder on the bow door, Onan 7.5kW generator, air conditioning, head, full width welded aluminum swim step with non-skid, walk-around cabin and bow anchor windlass.

Model: 36-7 Water Taxi

Islas Secas, Panama: Located 25 miles off the coast of Panama, Islas Secas is a chain of 16 jungle-clad volcanic islands. This 36’ Munson is used to transport tourists and facilitate diving operations in one of the most bio-diverse marine habitats in the world. Outfitting includes inside seating for 20 passengers, port & starboard dive doors, foredeck bench seating, dive bottle racks, two dive ladders, Garmin plotter/sounder, bow anchor windlass and 50 gal fresh water system.

Model: 36-6 Sport

Lake Baikal, Russia: Lake Baikal is the world’s deepest freshwater lake measuring over 5000 feet deep and stretching over 400 miles. This 36’ Munson sport boat is built to take advantage of the many unique recreational opportunities Lake Baikal offers. The large cabin is equipped with seating for 8 persons, galley with sink, stove, microwave and refrigerator, head compartment and opening skylight roof hatch. Additional outfitting includes seating for 8 in the aft cockpit, sun loungers in the bow deck and hydraulic bow door system.

Model: 36-5 OSR

Burnaby, BC: Western Canada Marine Spill Response Corporation is responsible for oil spill response in British Columbia and operates several Munson Boats. The 36’ Gil Sentinel is utilized in nearshore response operations for deployment of equipment and transport of solid and liquid waste. Outfitting includes a hydraulically operated bow door, tow post with tow line guide, davit with 12V windlass, 8 person canister life raft and Raymarine radar/plotter/sounder.

Model: 36-4 Research

New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University uses their 36’ Munson research boat as a mobile lab for the Department of Marine and Coastal Services at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. This vessel was delivered with a US Coast Guard COI and is rated for 20 passengers and 2 crew members. Outfitting includes a Universal Sonar Mount (USM) for use with their Rio Grande Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, fore and aft davits, side boarding door, 5kw generator, and a Garmin 1040xs radar/plotter/sounder. The large cabin is equipped with A/C, forced air heat, a head compartment, and multiple work stations.

Model: 36-3 Expedition

Whittier, AK: This 36’ Munson is used to service a remote lodge located in Prince William Sound only accessible by boat. The cabin is outfitted with seating for 6 passengers, head, shower, galley, diesel heater, and queen mattress that deploys from the overhead. Additional outfitting includes bow & stern deck control stations, bow thruster, side boarding door, 12V fuel transfer pump, downrigger mounts, recessed fish holds, fish cleaning station, 8 person life raft, and hydraulic anchor winch. Electronics include Garmin 7610 plotter/sounder/radar with three 10” displays, Garmin auto pilot and Clarion stereo with 6 box speakers. A triple axle gooseneck trailer completes the package.

Model: 36-2 Fire

Boone County, KY: Boone County (KY) Civil Defense program, is a group of 49 dedicated volunteers who work more than 12,000 hours annually in water rescue activities. Triple ETEC's put up a top speed of 51mph ensuring quick response times. A roof mounted umbilical winch and towing davit assist crew members in performing bottom scans. A 500 gpm fire system and extensive EMT outfitting ensure that the team at Boone County Water Rescue is ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Model: 36-1 Research

Ashland, OR: Sky Research (SKY) is leading the operational implementation of advanced marine technology for geophysical investigations related to remediation of munitions and explosives. The R/V SKY MRV was designed to locate and dispose of unexploded ammunitions using a variety of detection methods with the help of an A-Frame hoist and multi-beam side scan sonar. Interior features include a CPU rack, computer work stations and an enclosed head compartment.

“I think I can speak for the entire team in thanking you and your company for building such an incredible boat! I have been on many rescues and she has always accomplished the task put in front of her. During the winter we navigated 6-7 foot seas and ice floes. Our team has certainly benefited from the functionality and ease of use of this vessel.”

Matt Boone County Water Rescue

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Sailboat Life

Sailboat Cruising and Lifestyle Magazine.

Living Aboard a 30-36ft Sailboat: A Guide for the Curious and Adventurous

Living Aboard a 30-36ft Sailboat: A Guide for the Curious and the Adventurous

Living aboard a sailboat is a dream for many people. The freedom to travel wherever you want, whenever you want, is an appealing prospect for those looking to escape the rat race and live a simpler life. However, living aboard a sailboat is not without its challenges. There are many things to consider before making the leap, and it is important to be prepared for the lifestyle change.

And it can be done for less than $60,000 . In most cases, less than $40,000. Ready to live, ready to sail, ready to travel.

As we share tips and suggestions for living aboard a 30-36ft sailboat, we will also share pictures of two excellent cruising sailboats : 1985 Catalina 36 mkii and 1987 Tayana Mariner.

Consider This, Living on a 30-36ft Sailboat

If you are considering living aboard a sailboat, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to decide what type of boat you want. There are many different types of sailboats on the market, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. You need to choose a boat that is the right size for you and your needs. Need bigger? Check out this Catalina 445 and the xYachts 45 comparison .

You also need to consider the type of sailing you want to do. If you plan on sailing long distances, you will need a boat that is seaworthy and comfortable. If you plan on sailing in coastal waters, you can get away with a smaller boat. For example, do you need a skeg-hung rudder or not? Do you need storage or do you need tankage?

Once you have chosen a boat, you need to start thinking about the logistics of living aboard. You will need to find a place to dock your boat, and you will need to figure out how to get your belongings on board. You will also need to stock up on food and supplies.

The Joys of a Simpler Life on a Sailboat

Living aboard a sailboat can be a great way to live a more simple and fulfilling life. However, it is important to be prepared for the challenges that come with this lifestyle. If you are willing to put in the work, living aboard a sailboat can be an amazing experience.

Tips for Living Aboard a 30-36ft Sailboat

Here are some tips for living aboard a 30-36ft sailboat:

• Choose a boat that is the right size for you and your needs.
• Consider the type of sailing you want to do.
• Start thinking about the logistics of living aboard.
• Find a place to dock your boat.
• Figure out how to get your belongings on board.
• Stock up on food and supplies.

Be prepared for the challenges that come with this lifestyle. As with any lifestyle, there are many challenges along the way. But the benefits of living on a sailboat are pretty damn good.

Benefits of Living on a 30ft Sailboat

Here are some of the benefits of living aboard a 30-36ft sailboat:

• Freedom to travel wherever you want, whenever you want.
• Simpler lifestyle.
• Close connection to nature.
• Sense of adventure.

Challenges of Living on a Smallish Sailbaot

Here are some of the challenges of living aboard a 30-36ft sailboat:

• Limited space.
• Limited amenities.
• Maintenance and repairs.
• Weather conditions.

If you are considering living aboard a sailboat, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you are willing to put in the work, living aboard a sailboat can be an amazing experience.

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The Voyage of the Sea Star – 35ft Sloop to Bermuda

Summer Sailboat Video, Bikinis, Sails, and Fun

Saved Up For This Dream

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• Sailboat Guide

Swan 36 is a 35 ′ 8 ″ / 10.9 m monohull sailboat designed by Sparkman & Stephens and Olle Enderlein and built by Nautor (Swan sailboats) between 1967 and 1970.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

From BlueWaterBoats.org :

The Swan 36 is the boat that kicked it all off for the prestigious Finnish yacht maker Nautor’s Swan, a name recognized among sailors as makers of some of the best production boats built. Its founder, Pekka Koskenkylä, way back in 1966 approached the hallowed New York design firm Sparkman and Stephens while they were working on some design projects in Finland. Koskenkylä’s idea was to build a yacht in the 10 metre range that would be strong, seaworthy and fast enough to be suitable not only for cruising but racing as well. He wanted to utilize fiberglass molding techniques which were still in its relative infancy at the time.

The outcome of the agreement was Sparkman and Stephens design number 1710.51 which was a hull form already being used in boats being built by Cantieri Benello (Gaia Class), Cheoy Lee (Sigma 36, S&S Design #1710.8) and by Chantier Bertin in France. Where the Swan 36 design differed significantly was the use of a separate rudder from the keel, quite an innovation for its day and a configuration for which Sparkman and Stephens was having great success with in their Americas Cup designs (in 1967 and 1970 their separate rudder 12m boat -Intrepid_ went on to claim successive defense victories.)

With her departure from a full keel, the Swan 36 stands somewhere between the classic and a new generation of design thinking. She still retains moderately long overhangs and a deep bilge yet her hull has a pronounced tumblehome with a pointed diamond shaped plan profile which was becoming popular in RORC racing designs of that era. Her interior layout was simple and functional.

She was introduced in the spring of 1967 with the first Swan 36 delivered to British sailor Dave Johnson, whose racing successes around the UK generated a good reputation for Swan as a maker of performance racing yachts. Notably, in 1968, Casse Tete II won seven wins out of seven at the Cowes Week regatta. As the Swan 36 continued to impress on the racing circuit, owner feedback and wish for improvements propelled Swan to produce the Swan 37 in 1970, the same year the Swan 36 production ceased with a total production of 90 boats.

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