Avance 36 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Avance 36 begins in 1977, marking a significant collaboration between Avance Yachts and the celebrated designer Peter Norlin. While SailboatData.com lists its production start year as 1980, its debut in 1977 established its immediate impact on the sailing world. Avance Yachts, rooted in the Finnish boatbuilding tradition, operated from Öjä, near Kokkola, with Öja Båtar AB serving as the manufacturing force behind their well-known models. This partnership allowed Norlin's innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs to be brought to life in durable fiberglass, a material that had become standard for yacht construction during this era. Avance earned a reputation for "superb Finnish craftsmanship" and "world-class design."

Peter Norlin's design philosophy emphasized yachts that delivered on their promises, creating boats that were not only efficient and seaworthy but also offered comfortable interiors. The Avance 36, in particular, was designed to have a "classically beautiful shape coupled with all the temper typical of a speedy hull." During its production run, which effectively concluded by the end of the 1980s, the hull design from the waterline down and the rigging remained largely consistent, with only minor modifications such as a slight change to an elliptical rudder. The fractional sloop rig features a notable single pair of spreaders. Approximately 100 units of this admired model were built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Avance 36's design ratios provide insight into its sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.50, she suggests good performance in lighter winds, indicating an ability to move well even when the breeze is modest. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.52 is notably high, contributing to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to more wind and maintain a comfortable heel angle. Despite descriptions of a "speedy hull," her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 191.28, as documented by SailboatData.com, places her firmly in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for her size, rather than a heavy, traditional vessel.

Anecdotal accounts and reviews consistently praise the Avance 36 for its "elegant lines and efficient hulls," highlighting its performance capabilities and suitability for both cruising and racing. Owners frequently commend its balance and behavior in various sea states, underscoring Norlin's success in creating a yacht that performs predictably and to expectations.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Avance 36 prioritizes its sleek lines and sailing performance, its interior is designed for comfortable cruising, typically accommodating up to six berths. The interior features a functional galley and a dedicated toilet facility, along with a freshwater capacity of approximately 100 liters (about 26 US gallons). The joinery is commonly crafted from teak, a material known for its durability and classic marine aesthetic. While generally praised for its "cosy" ambiance, some reviews note that the interior might feel a "bit cramped" given its overall length, reflecting its performance-oriented hull form. It's also worth noting that some Avance 36s were sold as hull-and-deck kits for owner completion, meaning the interior finish quality and precise layout might vary from vessel to vessel.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Avance 36 consistently commend the yacht for its "superb Finnish craftsmanship" and "robust construction." The enduring quality and seaworthiness of these vessels are frequently cited, with many Avance 36s remaining well-maintained on the used boat market. Owners appreciate the blend of classic lines and enjoyable sailing characteristics that define the model. While no widespread, recurring common problems are extensively documented in owner forums, occasional mentions of maintenance items such as potential leakage down the mast have been noted. Overall, the collective sentiment among owners points to a durable, capable, and aesthetically pleasing sailboat that continues to deliver a rewarding sailing experience.