Gozzard 36 Information, Review, Specs

• Open plan layout.
• Sliding bulkheads/main bulkhead forward that can be closed off to create a private stateroom with a centerline queen berth.
• Forward settees that transform into a double berth.
• Pivot together to form a double.
• "Richly finished" interiors.
• Known for "quality workmanship" and "beautiful joinerwork".

This is sufficient for the "Accommodations and Layout" section. I have enough information now to write the article.

The Gozzard 36, built by North Castle Marine Ltd., known as Gozzard Yachts, from 1985 to 1998, stands as a testament to thoughtful design and robust construction in the cruising sailboat market. Conceived by H. Ted Gozzard, this elegant blue water sailing yacht was designed specifically for the needs of cruising couples seeking a comfortable and capable vessel for extended voyages. With approximately 90 to 100 hulls produced, the Gozzard 36 quickly earned a reputation for its "Distinction, Quality and exceptional Sailing Abilities" within the sailing community, 5].

History and Design

The production of the Gozzard 36 commenced in 1985 and continued until 1998, a period during which Gozzard Yachts, under the guidance of H. Ted Gozzard and later his son Mike Gozzard, firmly established its design philosophy. Ted Gozzard's approach was straightforward: to "Design, engineer and build the best boats possible and do this specifically for the owner's intended use". This ethos translated into yachts renowned for being sturdy, comfortable, and remarkably seakindly, with a strong emphasis on functionality where "form always follows function". The builder's commitment to quality was evident in their meticulous construction techniques, utilizing quality materials for robust builds, including fully cored hulls and decks, ensuring the Gozzard 36 was a "limited production boat built to withstand punishing seas", 6]. While the core design remained consistent, interior layouts, engine locations, and horsepower evolved over the production run, reflecting a continuous refinement process rather than distinct model changes. The cutter rig remained a defining feature throughout its production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gozzard 36 is categorized as a heavy-displacement cutter, reflecting its emphasis on comfort and stability over outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 20.26, she exhibits good light-air performance, allowing her to move efficiently even in lighter breezes. Her Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Ballast/D) of around 0.377 points to a stable and stiff hull form, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an even keel. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 315.6 confirms her as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, contributing to her renowned seakindliness. Reviewers and owners often note that while sailing fast is not her primary objective, the Gozzard 36 delivers a comfortable motion and predictable handling, making her a pleasure to sail in various sea states 3, 4, builder article. Her cutter rig provides versatile sail plan options, contributing to her ease of handling for a cruising couple.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gozzard 36 is widely praised for its innovative and unconventional layout, thoughtfully designed with the "live aboard" needs of cruising couples in mind 4, 5, builder article. Rather than a traditional closed-off V-berth, the Gozzard 36 features an open-plan salon forward, which ingeniously transforms. A distinctive main bulkhead forward employs a sliding or pivoting system, allowing it to be closed off to create a private stateroom complete with a centerline queen berth when desired. The forward settees in the salon also pivot to form a comfortable double berth, maximizing the use of space. Gozzard yachts are known for their "richly appointed interior layouts" and "beautiful joinerwork," with a focus on quality craftsmanship and materials. Storage is ample, and the overall finish quality highlights the builder's commitment to creating comfortable and functional interiors for extended voyages.