Cal Cruising 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Cal Cruising 36 emerged from Jensen Marine's Costa Mesa, California facility, during an era when the company, founded by Jack Jensen, was a pioneer in fiberglass boat manufacturing. Production of the Cal Cruising 36 began in 1968 and concluded in 1970, reflecting Jensen Marine's commitment to building solid, well-constructed, and tough, yet easy-to-sail vessels. The design ethos of C. William Lapworth, fundamental to the Cal brand's identity, focused on creating performance-oriented fiberglass sailboats known for their comfortable motion and good tracking abilities., 6]

A notable variation of the Cal Cruising 36 is its shallower draft option of 4.92 feet, compared to the 5.70-foot draft of the standard Cal 36, making it more accessible for navigating shallower waters. Some models were also built with a modified pilothouse, featuring larger windows for increased light and visibility, offering a distinctive layout. The rigging is a masthead sloop, and while some boats originally had tillers, owners have sometimes converted them to binnacle steering for convenience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal Cruising 36 is categorized as a moderate-weight sailboat, capable of good performance under sail. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.35, the Cal Cruising 36 suggests a respectable ability to perform well in lighter wind conditions while maintaining versatility across a range of breezes. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 272 indicates it leans towards the heavier end of the cruising spectrum, suggesting a comfortable and stable motion rather than being a lightweight racer. The ballast, estimated at 4,500 pounds of lead, provides a ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.375. This indicates a reasonably stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to a decent amount of wind and possessing good righting capabilities.

Owners often describe the Cal Cruising 36 as a well-behaved vessel that tracks well and offers a dry ride, even in more challenging sea states. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to responsive handling, making it a manageable boat for cruising sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts vary between individual boats due to owner modifications and factory options like the "Modified Pilothouse Model," the Cal Cruising 36 was designed to be a comfortable cruiser. Typical interior arrangements for a boat of this size and era would generally include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a convertible dinette, and a galley. The emphasis for a cruising model would have been on practical living space, storage, and ventilation, providing a comfortable environment for extended periods aboard. The "Modified Pilothouse Model" specifically enhanced interior light through its five large windows, suggesting a brighter and more open feel than traditional cabin designs.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Cal Cruising 36 for its solid construction and seaworthiness, often noting its reliability as a safe offshore vessel. Many appreciate its practical design and find it to be a forgiving boat that is easy to sail. The boat's stability and comfortable motion in a seaway are consistently highlighted, making it a favored choice for those seeking a dependable cruising platform. While specific recurring weaknesses are not broadly cited in general reviews, as with any vessel of its age, potential buyers typically consider the condition of original systems and fittings.