Clipper 36 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

The Cheoy Lee Clipper 36 entered production in 1969, with the first hull launched in 1968, and remained a popular model until production ceased around 1988. Designed by A.E. Bill Luders Jr., a prominent naval architect known for his work on various Cheoy Lee series, the Clipper 36 reflects a philosophy focused on creating aesthetically pleasing vessels with sound sailing qualities. During this era, Cheoy Lee Shipyard, having relocated to Hong Kong in 1936 and expanded significantly into pleasure craft by the mid-1950s, was a pioneer in fiberglass boatbuilding, extensively utilizing Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) and foam sandwich technology. This innovative approach ensured that vessels like the Clipper 36 benefited from robust construction, durability, and reduced maintenance compared to traditional wooden boats. The Clipper 36 was offered with a cutter ketch rig, providing a versatile sail plan with a reported sail area of 635 square feet, and was also available with a two-masted schooner rig. Buyers could choose between two distinct interior layouts to suit their cruising preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Clipper 36, with its heavy displacement and full keel design, is not primarily a performance racer but rather a steady and comfortable cruiser. Her Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 464 indicates a very heavy displacement vessel, translating to a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent directional stability. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 15.02 suggests that while she possesses "solid sailing qualities," she is not optimized for light-air performance. Owners generally find that the Clipper 36 "sails best on a reach, and then their speed will be more than adequate," though upwind performance may be less sparkling. The ballast to displacement ratio of 0.33 points to moderate stiffness, meaning she will stand up to a reasonable breeze, though a well-handled sail plan, particularly with the versatile cutter-ketch rig, allows for effective management in various conditions. Her long keel contributes to exceptional tracking and a forgiving nature, making her a stable platform ideal for extended passages rather than quick maneuvers.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Clipper 36 is characterized by a traditional layout, often featuring extensive teak trim, reflecting the builder's commitment to classic aesthetics. While the boat's hull design contributes to its solid sailing characteristics, it also means the interior volume is "rather small" compared to more modern designs of similar length. Owners frequently note that the navigation area and head are not particularly spacious. However, an exception is the V-berth in the forward cabin, which is generally considered generous. The vessel was offered with at least two interior layouts, including a "Layout A" that typically featured a double drop-leaf dining table with central storage, complemented by two settees and pilot berths in the main salon, providing ample seating and sleeping arrangements for a cruising couple or small family. The finish quality and use of materials, particularly the joinery, are typically praised for their durability and classic appeal, standing the test of time.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Clipper 36 consistently praise the boat's enduring beauty and robust, solid hull construction, often stating that these attributes significantly outweigh any perceived flaws. The vessel's "solid sailing qualities" and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently highlighted as major strengths, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable cruiser. However, common themes in owner feedback include the understanding that the Clipper 36 is "not bought for speed, space or ease of maintenance". Some recurring maintenance concerns that owners have noted include potential issues with original wooden spars, occasional flaws in metal work, and electrical components, though these are generally described as a "small variety of potential problems" that can be addressed over time. The smaller interior volume, particularly in the head and navigation areas, is also occasionally mentioned, though the comfortable V-berth is often appreciated. Despite these minor points, the strong aesthetic appeal and dependable nature of the Clipper 36 tend to foster a loyal following among those who value classic design and robust construction over contemporary performance metrics.