Freedom 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Freedom 36 debuted in 1985, a product of the collaboration between Freedom Yachts and the acclaimed naval architect Gary Mull. Mull, whose work earned him a place on Dennis Conner's America's Cup design team, brought his understanding of sailboat performance to the Freedom ethos of unstayed masts. While the builder article highlights Gary Hoyt's vision for unstayed rigs, designers like Mull were instrumental in shaping new models within the Freedom line.

Freedom Yachts, founded by Gary Hoyt in 1976, was driven by a desire to simplify sailing and enhance sail efficiency by eliminating traditional standing rigging. This revolutionary concept, often featuring free-standing carbon fiber spars in early models, was a hallmark of the brand. All Freedom Yachts, including the 36, were meticulously constructed by Tillotson Pearson Inc. (TPI) in Rhode Island, a partnership that cemented the company's reputation for producing top-tier, high-quality boats with robust fiberglass construction.

During its production run, the Freedom 36 was available with variations, most notably a "deep keel" option offering a draft of 6.0 feet and a displacement of 13,400 lbs, in contrast to the standard 4.5-foot draft. There was also a "Cat Ketch" variant, sometimes referred to as the Freedom 36 CC, indicating diverse rigging options reflecting Freedom's experimental approach to sail plans.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 36 feet and a waterline length of 30.63 feet, the Freedom 36 exhibits characteristics of a moderate cruising vessel. The sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) for the Freedom 36 is approximately 15.42. This ratio suggests a sailboat designed for comfortable cruising in a range of conditions, offering moderate performance, particularly in lighter air.

The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.45 (6,500 lbs ballast in a 14,370 lb displacement) indicates a relatively stiff and stable boat. This high ballast ratio suggests that the Freedom 36 is capable of standing up to a good breeze, providing a secure and comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 223.5 further positions the Freedom 36 as a moderate displacement cruiser, balancing load-carrying capacity with reasonable performance.

Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises the Freedom 36 as a "well built and excellent sea boat". While generally regarded as a solid performer, some owners note that the model "doesn't do particularly well in light winds". However, the innovative unstayed rig, a signature feature of Freedom Yachts, offers inherent advantages in ease of handling, especially for single-handed sailing, by simplifying deck layouts and reducing maintenance. Some reviews suggest the boat can be "lively" in certain sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Freedom 36 is designed to maximize comfort and living space, reflecting a common desire among cruisers for generous accommodations. With a maximum headroom of 6.33 feet, the cabin offers ample vertical space for most occupants. Online reviews describe the interior as "spacious and thoughtfully laid out," often featuring quality "teak joinery and trim" that contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Some commentators suggest that Freedom models generally offer "more interior volume for their length than almost anything else on the market".

While specific diagrams require detailed search, typical layouts for a boat of this size and era would include a V-berth forward, a head with a shower, a spacious main salon often featuring a dinette, a well-equipped galley, and either a quarter berth or an aft cabin. This arrangement prioritizes livability and comfort for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Freedom 36 generally commend the vessel for its solid construction and comfortable motion. The "very well built" nature of these boats, stemming from TPI's craftsmanship, is a frequently cited strength. The ease of handling provided by the unstayed rig is another significant advantage, particularly appealing to those who prefer simpler sailing and reduced maintenance.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Freedom 36 is not without its common considerations. A recurring issue noted by some owners involves the "original deck fittings to develop leaks," which often requires re-bedding to resolve. While the boat is generally well-regarded for its stability, some owners have mentioned that it might not excel in light wind conditions. Despite these points, the lasting appeal of the Freedom 36 is evident in the active community of owners who continue to appreciate these distinctive vessels.