Pedrick 36 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

Cheoy Lee Shipyard, with over 150 years of shipbuilding heritage and five generations of family ownership, has consistently been at the forefront of marine craftsmanship and innovation. Beginning in Shanghai and later relocating to Hong Kong, Cheoy Lee became a pioneer in the extensive use of fiberglass as a boatbuilding material, including advanced GRP and foam sandwich technology, particularly in the 1960s and 70s. This commitment to robust construction and advanced techniques is evident in the Pedrick 36, built during an era when Cheoy Lee's pleasure craft division was flourishing before their pivot to larger motor yachts and commercial vessels around 1990.

History and Design

The Cheoy Lee Pedrick 36 began production in 1985, a product of the collaboration between the distinguished Hong Kong shipyard and American designer David Pedrick. Pedrick, known for his involvement in Grand Prix handicapping and design rules, brought a performance-oriented sensibility to his designs, including those for production cruisers. His collaboration with Cheoy Lee marked a shift for the builder towards more contemporary designs, succeeding earlier popular models. While specific design goals for the Pedrick 36 are not widely documented, Pedrick's general philosophy suggests an emphasis on effective hull forms and sailing efficiency, balancing cruising comfort with a respectable turn of speed.

Cheoy Lee's manufacturing ethos during this period was characterized by their pioneering work with fiberglass and their commitment to durable construction. The Pedrick 36 benefits from this expertise, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and a solid fiberglass deck, indicative of the shipyard's focus on robust and reliable vessels. No significant variations in rig or hull design, such as MkI or MkII versions, are commonly noted for the Pedrick 36 production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pedrick 36, with a length overall of just under 36 feet and a waterline length of 28.83 feet, exhibits characteristics of a moderate-weight cruiser. Her sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 15.5, suggests a boat with moderate performance capabilities, suitable for cruising rather than racing. While she may not be a powerhouse in light airs, this ratio indicates she is adequately powered for comfortable cruising.

The yacht's ballast to displacement ratio of nearly 40% (0.397) points to a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio also contributes to a good righting capability, enhancing safety and security offshore. With a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 299, the Pedrick 36 falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, rather than a light, performance-oriented boat. This weight class, combined with her fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, suggests a yacht that tracks well and offers a comfortable ride in varied conditions. Owners often describe the Pedrick 36 as a "fast boat" with good stability, capable of blue-water passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Pedrick 36 is designed for comfortable cruising, typically finished with warm teak joinery. The layout generally provides comfortable accommodation for up to six people. This arrangement usually includes a forward stateroom, offering a private sleeping area. The main salon typically features two settees, which can often serve as additional berths, providing ample seating and living space. A notable feature often found is a large quarter berth, located aft, offering another comfortable sleeping area. The design prioritizes a comfortable interior layout suitable for cruising with family and friends. While specific details on storage volume, ventilation, or the nuanced quality of interior finishes beyond the use of teak are less frequently detailed in general reviews, the overall impression is one of a practical and well-appointed cruising interior. Some early owners even undertook custom modifications to the interior layout during the initial build, indicating a degree of flexibility in the original design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Pedrick 36 generally express satisfaction with their vessels, often praising their capabilities as "classic, blue water yachts." Many owners report happy years of ownership, highlighting the boat's suitability for extended cruising. Like many boats of her vintage, some Pedrick 36 examples have undergone significant ongoing maintenance and upgrades by their owners, reflecting the commitment required to maintain a vessel of this age. While individual boats may present specific issues, such as reported instances of electrolysis on the prop shaft or observations regarding the steering/rudder post, these are not universally reported as design flaws across the entire model line. The solid construction and comfortable motion, typical of Cheoy Lee vessels, are often considered strong attributes by their owners, making the Pedrick 36 a robust choice for those seeking a durable and capable cruiser.