Peterson 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Peterson 36's inception in 1979 coincided with a burgeoning era for Taiwan's yacht building industry, during which C&L Marine Corp established itself as a producer of robust and practical yachts. C&L Marine was known for embracing fiberglass construction, a material choice typical for the period that allowed for the creation of durable and long-lasting vessels. The company frequently collaborated with notable naval architects, and the Peterson 36 is a prime example of their partnership with Doug Peterson, a designer whose name became synonymous with winning races and transforming yacht racing through his prolific and landmark designs. While Peterson's philosophy often leaned towards competitive performance, his designs, including the Peterson 36, also offered inherent seaworthiness, leading to a good chance of success for those venturing offshore in a well-prepared Peterson yacht. There is no indication of significant variations or "Mk" versions during the limited production run of the Peterson 36.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Peterson 36, with a length overall of 36.08 feet and a waterline length of 31.5 feet, boasts characteristics indicative of a capable cruiser-racer. Its displacement of 16,000 pounds coupled with a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 228.53 suggests a moderately heavy vessel, contributing to a comfortable motion in various sea states while retaining good speed potential. The boat's 6,000 pounds of ballast results in a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 37.50%, indicating a respectable level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze.

Equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, the Peterson 36 offers splendid maneuverability, a hallmark of designs from this era focusing on responsive handling. The hull speed is calculated at 7.52 knots. Anecdotal evidence from owners often describes the Peterson 36 as an excellent performer and a joy to sail, a testament to Doug Peterson's skill in blending performance with a comfortable sailing experience. While a specific reported sail area is not consistently available, the boat's design lineage and ratios point to a vessel capable of good all-around performance in various wind conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Peterson 36 is designed to provide comfortable accommodations for cruising. Typically, the layout includes six berths, making it suitable for families or a crew on longer voyages. Like many yachts of its size and era, it features a functional galley for meal preparation and a dedicated navigation table, catering to the needs of cruisers. With its robust fiberglass hull, the interior often features durable finishes designed to withstand the rigors of the marine environment. The exact maximum headroom varies, but boats of this length are generally expected to offer comfortable standing room in the main salon.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Peterson designs, including the 36, frequently praise the solid construction and capable sailing characteristics inherent in Doug Peterson's creations. These boats are often highlighted for their ability to perform well, whether cruising comfortably or participating in competitive events. The enduring quality of C&L Marine-built vessels means that many Peterson 36s continue to be enjoyed by owners today, showcasing the longevity and sound design of these classic Taiwanese-built yachts.