Compis 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Compis 36 begins in the early 1980s, with production for this model spanning from 1981 to 1983. Its lineage can be traced back to the Beason 36, also designed by Bernt Andersson, which began production in 1980. Andersson himself hailed the Compis 36 as the "dream boat for many," reflecting the designer's ambition to create a widely appealing and highly capable yacht.

The builder, Comfortbåtar AB, under the vision of Kenneth Albinsson, had established a reputation for embracing fiberglass as a primary construction material and for a design philosophy that prioritized a balance of perfect sailing characteristics, safety, speed, and comfort. This ethos is evident in the Compis 36, which features solid fiberglass for both its hull and deck, ensuring durability and structural integrity. The design incorporates a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, indicative of a vessel intended for responsive handling and good directional stability. The Compis 36 was initially produced as the Beason 36 by Widholms Industries before Comfortbåtar AB took over, with the name changing to Compis 36 after Comfortbåtar's re-establishment in 1982 following a bankruptcy. Approximately 30 units were produced under the Compis 36 name before another bankruptcy in 1985 led to Mamba Boats acquiring the molds. A notable design feature is its fractional rig, which contributes to easier tacking—an advantage appreciated by both cruisers and racers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Compis 36 is engineered for an engaging sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.5, she falls into the category of a performance cruiser, suggesting a good balance of power for light winds without being overly tender in a breeze. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 43.7% is relatively high, indicating significant stability and stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to strong winds and maintain a more upright position. This translates to a more comfortable motion and less need for aggressive reefing.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 181.9 places her on the lighter side of moderate displacement for a yacht of her length. This, combined with her sleek hull design, points to an agile and responsive vessel capable of good speeds. Owners have consistently lauded the Compis 36 for its "fantastic" sailing characteristics, particularly praising its ability to handle "hard seas, hard winds" with competence and comfort. The fractional rig, with its smaller headsails, simplifies sail handling and tacking, making the boat manageable for a smaller crew. Overall, the Compis 36 offers a lively yet secure ride, balancing speed and stability for a rewarding sailing experience. Her comfort value is considered just above average compared to similar sailboat designs.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data for the Compis 36 is not detailed in the provided specifications, the interior of these Swedish-built yachts typically reflects a cozy Scandinavian aesthetic, characterized by a practical and well-finished use of teak. The layout is designed for functionality and liveability, providing comfortable spaces for extended cruising.

Upon descending the companionway, the galley is typically found immediately adjacent, offering convenience for meal preparation. Aft, the boat commonly features a dedicated aft cabin with a double berth, providing a private sleeping area. The main salon would traditionally offer settees that can serve as berths, often with a central table for dining and socializing. Forward, a V-berth in the bow would complete the sleeping arrangements. While detailed descriptions of storage and ventilation require specific model reviews, the general reputation of Comfortbåtar suggests a thoughtful approach to utilizing space and providing adequate amenities for a cruising couple or small family.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Compis 36 frequently express strong satisfaction with its performance and robust construction. The sentiment that it is "fantastic to sail" and excels in challenging conditions like "hard seas, hard winds" is a recurring theme. This feedback aligns with the builder's reputation for prioritizing durable build quality and excellent sailing characteristics. The designer's original aspiration for it to be a "dream boat for many" appears to have resonated with its owners, who appreciate its solid feel and comfortable motion. While common problems are not widely documented in general reviews, the overall impression is one of a reliable and well-engineered vessel that has stood the test of time, fostering a dedicated community of enthusiasts.