Cal 36 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Cal 36 can be traced back to 1966, following Jensen Marine's successful establishment with earlier Lapworth designs like the Cal 24 and the legendary Cal 40. C. William "Bill" Lapworth, a prolific American naval architect, was instrumental in shaping the identity of the Cal brand, known for its innovative yet practical sailboats. His design philosophy for Cal boats consistently aimed to create solid, well-built, and tough vessels that were simultaneously easy to sail and comfortable, attributes that are clearly reflected in the Cal 36. During this period, Jensen Marine, initially founded by Jack Jensen in Southern California, was recognized for its robust fiberglass construction methods, embracing this relatively new material for its durability and versatility. The company's focus was on producing performance-oriented yachts accessible to a broad market, a characteristic the Cal 36 exemplifies. While there isn't extensive documentation of distinct "MkI" or "MkII" versions, some individual Cal 36s have undergone significant modifications over time, including keel redesigns, indicating the boat's adaptable platform for performance enhancements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal 36, a masthead sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, is known for its balanced and capable sailing performance. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.1 indicates a boat with good power for its displacement, suggesting a lively performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. This ratio signifies that the Cal 36 carries ample sail area to propel its hull efficiently. Complementing its sail plan, the Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at around 40.2%, with 4,500 pounds of lead ballast in a total displacement of 11,200 pounds. This relatively high ballast ratio contributes significantly to the boat's inherent stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in various sea states.

With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 254, the Cal 36 falls into the category of a moderate cruiser, balancing performance with volume and comfort. Owners frequently praise its handling, describing it as a practical, safe, and seaworthy offshore boat that is still decently fast. The masthead rig design offers simplicity and efficiency in managing sail area, contributing to its ease of handling. Overall, the Cal 36 tracks well and is often described by owners as a very dry boat, making it a reliable and enjoyable vessel for both racing and cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed interior specifications for the Cal 36 are not fully enumerated in standard data, grounded searches and owner insights reveal a layout designed for practical cruising and liveaboard comfort. The interior is characterized by a "unique interior layout" that provides ample seating room, with one source mentioning 14 feet of seating in certain models like the Cal Cruising 36. The cabin typically features a traditional V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, and a galley area. Headroom, while not explicitly defined in the provided data, is generally considered adequate for a boat of its size, contributing to its appeal as a liveaboard option.

Many Cal 36s came equipped with pressure water, although sometimes only cold water, highlighting the practical nature of the original outfitting. The interior often features a blend of fiberglass surfaces and wood trim, characteristic of boats from its era, offering a durable yet classic aesthetic. Owners consistently highlight the boat's generous interior space and well-thought-out cockpit as attributes that enhance its liveability and usability for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cal 36 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often describing it as an "amazing piece of history that sails like no other". Many express pride in owning a Cal, attributing it to the brand's enduring reputation for quality and performance. The boat's ability to handle heavy weather and its general comfort on the water are frequently cited strengths, making it a favored choice for offshore passages and long-distance cruising. The simple, robust nature of its systems, such as the masthead rig, also contributes to its appeal for those who appreciate straightforward maintenance and reliability.

However, some common maintenance considerations have been noted by owners. A recurring issue relates to the engine alignment, particularly with the original Universal-Atomic 4 engine and its V-drive system, which can sometimes lead to through-hull problems at the shaft. While not a widespread manufacturing defect, some discussions among owners have also touched upon concerns regarding the keel, though definitive, widespread issues are not commonly reported. These points generally represent typical wear and tear or specific system considerations for a boat of its vintage rather than fundamental design flaws, and most owners find the Cal 36 to be a highly rewarding and capable vessel.