Hughes-Columbia 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Hughes-Columbia 36 began production in 1979, marking a significant chapter in the history of Hughes Boat Works. This model was introduced following Hughes Boat Works Inc.'s acquisition of Columbia Yachts in 1979, which led to the establishment of the Hughes-Columbia joint venture. Howard Hughes, who had repurchased Northstar Yachts and reverted the company name to Hughes Boatworks Inc. in 1977, expanded the company's offerings significantly through this acquisition, building Columbia boats at their Huron Park factory in Canada.

The Hughes-Columbia 36 itself was a development, drawing upon the Columbia 34 Mark II hull design and sharing a relationship with the Coronado 35. William H. Tripp Jr., the designer, was known for creating yachts that combined comfortable cruising accommodations with respectable sailing performance. While the precise design philosophy for this specific iteration is not extensively documented, Tripp's designs generally emphasized stability and seaworthiness. The Hughes-Columbia 36 was offered with variations in rigging, including both sloop and ketch configurations, and its rig dimensions and keel/rudder configuration could vary considerably. This adaptability allowed the builder to cater to different sailing preferences and market demands. Production of the Hughes-Columbia models, including the 36, was impacted by Hughes Boat Works going into receivership in 1980, making the direct Hughes-Columbia production period relatively brief.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hughes-Columbia 36 features a robust design optimized for stability and comfortable passage making rather than outright speed. With a displacement of 15,000 lbs and a waterline length (LWL) of 28.0 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 305 indicates a heavy displacement vessel. This characteristic suggests a boat that will carry its way well through adverse conditions, providing a steady and comfortable motion at sea. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.42 (6,300 lbs of ballast in a 15,000 lb displacement) is quite high, contributing significantly to the boat's stiffness and its ability to stand up to a strong breeze, allowing it to carry its sail area effectively without excessive heel.

However, its sail area-to-displacement ratio of around 13.71, based on a reported sail area of 525 sq ft, is relatively low. This suggests that the Hughes-Columbia 36 may require a decent breeze to truly come alive and will likely be less sprightly in light-air conditions compared to more performance-oriented designs. Despite this, owners often describe the Hughes-Columbia 36 as a "great all-around sailboat" capable of handling various sailing conditions due to its inherent stability and sea-kindly nature. The boat utilizes a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration that offers a good balance between maneuverability and directional stability. The fin keel generally provides splendid maneuverability, though it may offer less directional stability than a traditional long keel.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hughes-Columbia 36 is designed to offer a comfortable and functional living space for cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the boat is generally recognized for providing an "impressive layout" within its just under 36-foot length overall. Typical interior arrangements for sailboats of this size and era often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Quarter berths or additional sleeping arrangements were also common, maximizing sleeping capacity.

Based on insights from similar or related models, such as the Columbia 36, ventilation can sometimes be an area of concern, with some owners noting a need for improved airflow and potential for leaks around windows and hull-deck joints over time. However, the solid fiberglass construction of the hull and deck suggests a robust foundation. Interiors typically featured a blend of fiberglass liners and wood trim, offering a practical yet warm aesthetic common in North American production boats of the late 1970s. Storage is generally adequate for a cruising couple or small family, though maximizing space often involves custom solutions by owners.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hughes-Columbia 36 consistently praise its robust construction and its ability to provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Many regard it as a very stable and forgiving boat, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those looking to venture further afield. The ketch rig option is often appreciated for its flexibility in sail handling and ability to balance the boat in varying wind conditions. The spacious interior, for its size, is frequently cited as a strong point, allowing for comfortable living during extended cruises.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Hughes-Columbia 36 may present some common maintenance considerations. As noted for its closely related predecessor, the Columbia 36, some owners have reported issues such as inadequate ventilation and a tendency for leaks to develop around the original window frames and hull-to-deck joint, which may require re-bedding over time. The original deck fittings, while generally robust, might also require attention for re-sealing to prevent water ingress. Despite these potential areas for refurbishment, the enduring popularity and active community of owners attest to the fundamental soundness and cruising appeal of the Hughes-Columbia 36.