Lippincott 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Lippincott 36 began production in 1985, emerging during a period when Lippincott Boat Works was diversifying its offerings to include larger cruising models. The company, founded by brothers Robert and Howard Lippincott in 1946, had a formidable reputation built on their expertise in constructing high-quality, high-performance one-design racing yachts, particularly in fiberglass construction, which they pioneered in the late 1950s. The Lippincott 36, along with the Lippincott 30, marked a significant shift, showcasing the builder's adaptability and ability to apply their meticulous construction techniques and weight-saving innovations to more comfortable cruising platforms. The design of the Lippincott 36 was notably an in-house effort by Howard Lippincott Jr., continuing the family's influence and naval architecture expertise within the company. Production of the Lippincott 36 was relatively short-lived, concluding around 1986 when the company ceased operations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lippincott 36, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is designed to offer a blend of performance and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.0, she exhibits good all-around performance, suggesting she is capable in various wind conditions, including lighter air, while still being manageable when the breeze picks up. Her high ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.45 (45%) indicates a very stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind pressure without excessive heeling. This attribute contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway and a strong ability to hold her canvas. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of around 207 places the Lippincott 36 in the moderate weight category for a cruising boat of her size. This suggests a balanced design, offering a good compromise between light-air speed and heavy-weather seakindliness. Reviewers have noted that the Lippincott 36 features a hull design that is slightly more slender than many comparable sailboats, implying a design choice leaning towards speed.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for the Lippincott 36 are not extensively documented in widely available resources, boats of its era and class typically featured a practical layout designed for comfortable cruising. General layouts for sailboats in this size range often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley, and an enclosed head. Given Lippincott Boat Works' reputation for meticulous construction, it is reasonable to expect a well-finished interior, likely utilizing a combination of fiberglass liners and wood trim, which was common practice for quality builders transitioning to fiberglass construction. Storage solutions would typically include lockers, drawers, and under-berth spaces, vital for extended cruising. Ventilation would generally be provided by deck hatches and opening portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Lippincott sailboats, generally, have praised the builder's commitment to quality and the solid construction of their vessels. For similar models, such as the Lippincott 30, owners have consistently highlighted the build quality, sailing characteristics, and interior appointments. The Lippincott 36, being a larger cruising yacht from the same builder's later period, is similarly lauded as a moderate-weight, high-performing sailboat known for its stability and stiffness. Owners appreciate the boat's ability to handle well and provide a comfortable experience while underway.