C&C 34/36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The C&C 34/36, which replaced an earlier C&C 34 model, commenced production in 1989. It was designed by Robert W. Ball, who served as the chief in-house designer for C&C Yachts for nearly two decades. True to C&C's pioneering spirit, known for its use of advanced construction techniques like balsa-cored fiberglass hulls and later BPA epoxy hulls, the 34/36 was notably built with "exotic hybrids" to achieve a lightweight, stiff hull.

During its production run, the C&C 34/36 was offered in several distinct versions to cater to diverse sailing preferences. The "+" version was conceived as a versatile club racer-cruiser, while the "R" version represented a more race-oriented variant, featuring a deeper keel for enhanced performance. Later, an "XL" version was introduced, aiming to marry the performance attributes of the "R" model with a more extensively appointed cruising interior. Buyers also had the option of a shallower wing keel, offering flexibility for different sailing grounds. Approximately 94 units of the C&C 34/36 were produced from the original mold, with the Plus models accounting for the majority, and about 30 units being the racing versions with XL interiors.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C 34/36 is celebrated for its dynamic sailing performance and responsive handling. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.46, the vessel is categorized as a performance-oriented cruiser, suggesting good acceleration and responsiveness, particularly in lighter wind conditions. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 182.8 further classifies her as a light-to-moderate displacement boat, indicative of a design that balances cruising comfort with an emphasis on speed.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the C&C 34/36 as an "exceptionally fast sailing yacht" that handles easily, even in challenging conditions. Its balanced spade rudder contributes to agile maneuvering and precise control. The boat's design allows it to be fast both for pleasure sailing and competitive racing, with anecdotal reports suggesting it is "very fast around the buoys." Its ability to perform well in various sea states, including storm sailing, has also been noted, with the boat proving "quite easy" to manage in such conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance credentials, the C&C 34/36 is lauded for its remarkably spacious and functional interior, often noted as being exceptionally large for its length. The layout is often compared to a "smaller flipped version" of the larger C&C 37+, emphasizing its efficient use of space.

Typical interior features include a warm and functional ambiance, often highlighted by a varnished teak-and-holly sole and a central drop-leaf table in the salon. The cruising versions, in particular, were designed for comfort. While generally praised for its open and airy feel, some reviews have pointed out that the boat can lack adequate ventilation, particularly in the aft cabin. However, the overall finish quality, often featuring wood trim, and thoughtful arrangement of living spaces make it a comfortable vessel for extended cruising or weekend trips.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C 34/36 consistently praise the boat's robust construction, lively performance, and comfortable motion in a seaway. The enduring quality of these vessels is evident in the active online communities and forums where owners share experiences and solutions to common issues. Many C&C owners appreciate the boat's dual-purpose nature, finding it capable of both satisfying competitive urges and providing a pleasant cruising platform.

However, like any vessel of its age, certain recurring maintenance points are often mentioned by owners. Common issues include potential leaks around original deck fittings and ports, a known characteristic of some C&C models. Additionally, the keel-to-hull joint has been identified as a point that may require attention, and water ingress into the rudder is another issue occasionally noted. Despite these potential concerns, the strong owner community provides a valuable resource for addressing such maintenance needs, underscoring the enduring appeal and quality of the C&C 34/36.