Lancer 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Lancer 36 emerged from a compelling design lineage, with its prototype being the highly successful west coast racer, Chutzpah, which notably clinched victories in the Transpac race in both 1973 and 1975. This racing heritage set a high bar for the model's performance aspirations. The boat's primary designer was Bill Lee, known for his fast and innovative designs, often in conjunction with Bruce King. Lancer Yacht Corporation, founded in 1974 by Richard Valdez, operated with an ethos that, for its early models, prioritized quality and speed, although it later became more known for its motorsailer concepts., 8]

During its production run from 1973 to 1985, the Lancer 36 was offered with a variety of interior and rig options, catering to different sailing preferences. A notable variation included a shoal draft option, reducing the maximum draft from 6.0 feet to 4.92 feet, offering greater flexibility for shallower waters. Additionally, a fractional rig version, the Lancer 36 FR, was introduced later in 1982, also designed by Bill Lee but featuring a fractional sloop rig by Bruce Farr.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lancer 36 was designed as a performance-oriented racer-cruiser, and its specifications reflect this intent. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 18.64, the Lancer 36 demonstrates good sail-carrying power, suggesting respectable performance in lighter winds while still being manageable as the breeze builds. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.38 indicates a solid level of initial stability, contributing to its reputation for stiffness and the ability to stand up to a good breeze.

The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 192.2 places the Lancer 36 firmly in the medium-light displacement category for its length. This, combined with its long waterline (29.0 ft on a 36.17 ft LOA), contributes to its hull speed of 7.22 knots and overall agile handling. Owners frequently praise the Lancer 36 for being stiff, fast, and easy to sail, offering a confidence-inspiring motion. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat points well for its vintage and exhibits a balanced helm, making it a favorable choice for PHRF racing due to its performance characteristics. The robust fiberglass hull and fin keel contribute to its ability to handle various sea states effectively.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Lancer 36's primary focus included performance, it also aimed to provide comfortable living spaces for extended cruising. The interior of the Lancer 36 is generally described as spacious, offering accommodations suitable for living aboard, typically including a galley, a salon, and sleeping quarters. However, some owners have noted that the interior layouts could be considered somewhat unconventional or "strange" for a boat of this size, suggesting unique design choices in the arrangement of living areas.

Common features would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley area, and a head compartment. The boat's 11.75-foot beam provides ample volume below deck. Owners have pointed out certain design elements, such as the water tank being on the smaller side and the holding tank being integrated into the interior liner, which some found less convenient. The overall finish quality is generally regarded as good for its time, with solid fiberglass used for the hull construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lancer 36 generally express satisfaction with the boat's sailing capabilities and build quality. Many appreciate its performance, describing it as a fast and enjoyable boat to sail, particularly in a stiff breeze. The Lancer 36 is often praised for its robust construction, with some owners attesting to its resilience in challenging offshore conditions. It is frequently highlighted as a vessel that can be easily sailed short-handed or even single-handed, inspiring confidence in its stability and handling.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Lancer 36 is not without its common considerations. Recurring maintenance discussions among owners often revolve around issues with original deck fittings, which may develop leaks over time and require re-bedding. The design of the original water tank, often considered small for extended cruising, and the integrated holding tank have also been points of discussion for some owners. Despite these minor points, the active community of Lancer owners underscores the lasting appeal and functionality of these Bill Lee-designed performance cruisers.