Elan 36 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Elan 36 traces back to 1997, marking a significant period for Elan Yachts as they continued their fruitful collaboration with Rob Humphreys, who designed 18 models for the shipyard over two decades. Humphreys designed the Elan 36 in 1995 (design number 107), aiming for an elegant and spacious cruiser that offered dependable performance. This design philosophy aligned perfectly with Elan's manufacturing ethos of the era, which emphasized high-tech composite construction and a commitment to balancing exhilarating sailing with comfortable living spaces. The Elan 36 features stylish lines that belie a remarkably practical interior, characterized by short overhangs and a long waterline. While the primary rig for the Elan 36 is a fractional sloop, a version with a masthead rig was also available, offering a different sail plan for varied performance characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Elan 36's design ratios underscore its balanced performance capabilities. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 19.3, she exhibits good light-air performance, indicating an ability to move well in lighter winds. Her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.45 suggests a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 179 positions the Elan 36 in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for her size. These figures translate into a vessel recognized for its dependable sailing performance and solid construction. Owners and reviewers often describe the Elan 36 as an "aft-cockpit fast cruiser," praising its impressive performance and balanced handling across various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance-oriented design, the Elan 36 offers a remarkably spacious and practical interior for a boat of its size. The layout is typically configured to provide ample living space for extended cruising. Most models feature three separate cabins, each with a double berth, along with additional sleeping arrangements for one person in the main salon, accommodating up to seven people comfortably. A single well-appointed head with a toilet is standard. While specific headroom details are not widely available, the interior is generally described as well-designed for comfort and practicality. Consistent with Elan's broader design philosophy, the interior often showcases quality finishes, typically featuring iroko wood veneer complemented by solid iroko wood accents, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Elan 36 in high regard, frequently commending its robust construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics. The consensus points towards a reliable and comfortable cruiser, well-suited for family use and extended voyages. While specific recurring issues are not prominently reported in public forums, the overall sentiment aligns with Elan's reputation for producing yachts that strike a fine balance between exhilarating performance and cruising comfort, making the Elan 36 a strong contender for those seeking a well-built and capable sailing vessel.