The T-shaped cockpit is long for lounging and convenient crewing under sail.
The MK II version was first offered in 1995. The beam was increased at the deck in the stern, allowing for increased cockpit space. As the C-36 evolved, an open transom was added; exterior teak was replaced by stainless steel.
making it the Boat of the Year in its class. Perhaps everyone should experience a sailboat for the first time without an interior. Instead of stroking varnished teak below and bouncing on thick cushioned seats, we stayed on deck of the test boat examining her deck access fore and aft, discovering many comfortable sitting places, and imagining ourselves on a forever beam reach with barely discernible palm trees on a distant island. To feel the helm and feel the power in the sails through the sheets is to get to know a boat. Is she sweet, or is she awkward? There is plenty of room on the side decks for walking fore and aft past the standing rigging and house sides. The forward anchor locker is generous, often containing a windlass to make anchoring easy and inviting. It has been said that 90 percent of new boats are bought at a show while in the cabin, and that is a shame. A lot of boats will have very nice interiors, but most boats will not sail like this, like the Catalina 36. Outside in the cockpit and on deck is the place to be.
We have had our 1994 model since 1999 and have cruised the Carolina and Georgia coasts extensively. Offshore sailing is easy and comfortable with just the two of us. The C-36 has properly sized winches, hardware, and running rigging, all conveniently placed. The engine is large enough to power the boat through challenging current and awkward docking situations. This makes it possible for the boat to be managed in heavy conditions and be comfortable at the same time even though shorthanded. However, there is plenty of room for a bunch of friends to join for racing or day sailing or a cockpit happy hour. She is sturdy but is ideally proportioned to add all of the creature comforts, including air-conditioning, microwave, TV, etc. When we rally with others for a cruise, we are never the slow boat. Extended stays on our Catalina 36 are comfortable and fun, whether at or away from our dock. Catalina built the 2000th C-36 in 2000 and continued to build them until a few years ago. There are plenty from which to shop. This is really living/sailing well.
VISIT US AT THE MIAMI BOAT SHOW FEB. 14-18, BOOTH 921
SPARS & RIGGING By Sparman USA
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SOUTHWINDS
February 2013
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