Easterly 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Easterly 36 began its production run in 1976, during a period when its builder, Easterly Yachts, was carving out its niche in the American marine industry under the design leadership of Mike Brennan. Easterly Yachts, which operated from 1969 to 1980, focused on crafting fiberglass monohull sailboats known for their solid construction and practical layouts. Brennan's design philosophy for Easterly boats, including the 36, aimed to provide a "sensible and capable cruising sailboat" that offered a balance between sailing performance and liveability. The Easterly 36, in particular, was introduced as a center cockpit sloop, a design choice intended to maximize interior volume and enhance comfort for extended cruising. Production of the Easterly 36, like other models from the builder, concluded with the company's cessation of operations in 1980.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Easterly 36, with its fin keel and masthead sloop rig, exhibits sailing characteristics well-suited for its cruising aspirations. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.99 suggests a boat that is adequately powered for its displacement, capable of good performance in a variety of wind conditions without being overly tender. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 29.6%, indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable breeze and provide a stable motion in a seaway.

With a Displacement to Length (DLR) ratio of about 311.25, the Easterly 36 falls into the heavier end of the cruising sailboat spectrum. This higher DLR typically translates to a more comfortable motion offshore, making it a good choice for extended voyages, and reinforcing its description as a "bluewater cruising boat". Anecdotal descriptions of other Easterly models designed by Brennan hint at a "nimble yet stable sailing nature," a characteristic likely shared by the 36, providing a balanced helm and predictable handling.

Accommodations and Layout

As a center cockpit sloop, the Easterly 36 was designed to offer more spacious accommodations than typical aft-cockpit designs of its length, making it "suitable for extended cruising". This layout typically features a large main saloon, often with an L-shaped galley, a navigation station, and seating areas. The center cockpit allows for a separate aft cabin, which usually includes a double berth, offering privacy and comfort away from the main living area. Forward, a traditional V-berth provides additional sleeping quarters, complemented by a head compartment.

The interior finish, while functional for its era, has been described by some owners as featuring elements like "raw painted plywood" and "lots of Formica," suggesting a practical rather than luxurious approach to materials, comparable to some contemporary Pearson models. The boat boasts generous tankage, with a water capacity of 92 US gallons and a fuel capacity of 40 US gallons, supporting its role as a capable cruiser.