Gulfstar 36 MS PH Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gulfstar 36 MS PH began production in 1971, emerging from the burgeoning Florida boatbuilding scene. Gulfstar Yachts, founded in 1970 by fiberglass pioneer Vince Lazzara, quickly established itself as a significant manufacturer of both sailboats and powerboats, aiming to create versatile cruising designs. The 36 MS PH was among their initial offerings, reflecting the company's early focus on motor-sailers.

The design philosophy behind Gulfstar boats, often penned by Vince Lazzara himself and later his son Richard C. Lazzara, evolved over time. While early models, including some from this era, sometimes faced scrutiny regarding workmanship and featured more utilitarian interiors with materials like Formica, Gulfstar aimed to make cruising yachts more attainable. The 36 MS PH was offered in "Twin Cabin" (center cockpit) and "Salon" (pilot house) versions, and could be rigged as either a sloop or a ketch, providing flexibility for owners. Its long keel design contributes to its directional stability, a hallmark of many traditional cruising vessels.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motor-sailer, the Gulfstar 36 MS PH prioritizes comfort and motor performance, with its sailing capabilities providing an efficient auxiliary propulsion. Her sailing characteristics can be understood through her design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 13.33, she is not designed for light-air performance or competitive racing. This lower ratio indicates that she will require more wind to get moving and will likely be steadier rather than nimble.

The Displacement to Length ratio of around 512.4 classifies the Gulfstar 36 MS PH as a heavy displacement vessel. This substantial weight for her length, combined with a long keel, translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent directional stability, making her well-suited for extended cruising where comfort over speed is paramount. Owners often report that while not a speed demon, she is a solid boat that tracks well and can handle various sea states predictably under sail. Her substantial 80 HP engine also ensures reliable propulsion when the wind is light or for motoring long distances.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gulfstar 36 MS PH is designed for comfortable cruising and liveaboard potential, a defining characteristic of a motor-sailer. While specific headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, the pilot house configuration typically allows for excellent light and ventilation, along with an elevated helm position offering good visibility.

Interior layouts commonly feature a forward V-berth, a salon area with a dinette, a galley, and often an aft cabin in the twin-cabin version. The "Salon" or "Pilot House" variant of the 36 MS often features a main salon with a dedicated inside steering station, providing protection from the elements. Reviews and owner discussions indicate that these boats offer substantial interior volume for their length, often with a focus on practical living spaces rather than outright luxury. Owners typically praise the boat's generous storage capacity, a crucial aspect for long-distance voyaging.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gulfstar 36 MS PH generally praise its robust construction and its suitability as an affordable blue-water cruising platform. Many appreciate the comfort and spaciousness offered by its motor-sailer design, making it a viable option for those looking to live aboard or undertake extended voyages. The boat's long keel and heavy displacement contribute to a comfortable motion offshore, which is frequently cited as a significant strength.

However, common maintenance considerations are also noted, particularly concerning older models. Some owners have reported issues with original deck fittings developing leaks, requiring re-bedding, and some early Gulfstar models faced scrutiny regarding fiberglassing problems. While the integrated fuel tank and stringers are sometimes highlighted as areas to inspect on older vessels, many owners find these boats to be fundamentally solid, provided they have been well-maintained. The enduring presence of numerous Gulfstar 36 MS PHs on the water decades after their initial construction is a testament to their lasting appeal and the sturdy foundations laid by their designers and builders.