Eagle 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Eagle 36 was produced by Leonardo Yachts from 2011 to 2018. Leonardo Yachts, founded by brothers Steven and Melle Boersma, emerged from a rich family tradition of boat building, with a clear vision to create "modern classic daysailers" that prioritize uncompromising beauty and elegance. The Eagle 36, designed by Gaastmeer/Terpstra Design, fit perfectly into this philosophy. While Leonardo Yachts later redesigned the Eagle 36 into the Eagle 38 with Hoek Design, the original Eagle 36 established the foundation for the acclaimed Eagle series, known for blending timeless aesthetics with contemporary technology. The inspiration for these designs often harks back to the classic J-class racing yachts, reflecting a deep respect for sailing heritage.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Eagle 36 is characterized by its long, slender hull, with a length overall of 35.1 feet and a waterline length of 23.42 feet, contributing to a high length-to-beam ratio of 4.14. This design choice allows for competitive performance and speed, aiming for the classic J-boat look. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 23.38, the Eagle 36 demonstrates excellent light-air performance, indicating that she can be easily driven in lighter winds. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 252.83 suggests a moderately heavy displacement for her length, placing her more in the cruiser category, yet still performance-oriented for a daysailer. The single spade rudder provides responsive steering, and while a high length-to-beam ratio might suggest less initial stability, it often translates to good ultimate stability and a smooth motion through the water at speed. The focus of the Eagle 36 is clearly on delivering an enjoyable and engaging sailing experience, designed for easy handling and even single-handed operation.

Accommodations and Layout

Consistent with its design as an "ultimate daysailer," the Eagle 36 features a minimalist interior, with the primary living space centered around the expansive cockpit. While internal headroom is not specified, the emphasis on the cockpit as the main area for enjoyment suggests that below-deck accommodations are designed more for shelter and basic amenities rather than extended cruising. The cockpit typically offers two long seats, providing comfortable space for socializing and relaxation on the water. Interior details, such as finish quality and materials, would align with Leonardo Yachts' reputation for using high-quality materials and impeccable finishing to create beautiful boats with a keen eye for detail. This attention to craftsmanship would likely extend to any interior elements, even if sparse.

Owner's Perspectives

Direct owner reviews specifically for the Eagle 36 are not widely publicized. However, owners of Leonardo Yachts' Eagle series generally praise the solid construction, elegant design, and the focus on a refined sailing experience. The company emphasizes a "carefree delivery" and "lifelong service," fostering a strong community among owners who are welcomed into the "Eagle family." This commitment to service and quality suggests that owners typically experience a high level of support and satisfaction with their Leonardo Yachts vessels.