Macgregor 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The MacGregor 36 emerged from Roger MacGregor's vision to make boating more accessible and versatile, a philosophy that defined MacGregor Yacht Corp. from its inception in the early 1960s, 16]. Established in Costa Mesa, California, the company began with a compact catamaran, setting the stage for designs like the MacGregor 36, 11]. Production of the 36-foot catamaran spanned six years, with approximately 300 units built.

The design ethos of the MacGregor 36 revolved around a light displacement fiberglass hull and deck, coupled with a masthead sloop rig [7,. A standout feature was its revolutionary ability to reduce its considerable 18-foot beam down to a trailering-friendly 7.83 feet, a testament to MacGregor's commitment to creating easily manageable vessels. This innovative collapsing beam mechanism allowed owners to transport the catamaran by road, significantly expanding its cruising grounds and reducing storage costs. The inclusion of a centerboard, allowing for a minimum draft of 2.0 feet and a maximum of 3.5 feet, further enhanced its shallow-water accessibility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The MacGregor 36 is recognized for its lively performance and straightforward handling, characteristic of its lightweight catamaran design. With a reported sail area of 534 square feet and a displacement of just 3000 pounds, it is designed for efficiency and speed. Owners have frequently praised the MacGregor 36 for its "very favorable sailing characteristics" and its ability to deliver a "smooth ride that is dry".

As a catamaran, the MacGregor 36 offers inherent stability and a relatively high hull speed of 7.7 knots. Its shallow draft, facilitated by a centerboard, allows it to explore coastal areas and anchorages inaccessible to deeper-keeled monohulls [5,. While offering respectable sailing capabilities, the MacGregor 36 also aligns with the builder's "power-sailer" concept, comfortably accepting an outboard engine for motoring at cruising speeds of 8-10 knots, providing owners with flexibility in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its impressive length overall of 35.5 feet and generous 18-foot beam, the interior accommodations of the MacGregor 36 are often described as functional and efficient, reflecting its performance-oriented and trailerable design. The layout typically includes four berths, a small galley, and a head, along with a navigation area.

The interior of the hulls is designed to be self-bailing, with the exception of the area between the bunks, indicating a practical approach to keeping the boat dry and low-maintenance. While specific details on headroom are not consistently available, the focus was generally on maximizing usable space within the narrow hull sections. Owners undertaking refurbishment projects often focus on updating interior cushions and deck hardware, suggesting that original finishes might have been practical rather than luxurious. Some owners have noted that compared to broader modern catamarans, the interior can feel "awfully small," highlighting its design priorities as a lightweight, trailerable vessel over expansive living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the MacGregor 36 frequently express a strong affinity for their vessels, with many stating they would purchase the boat again. The boat's "solid" feel and comfortable motion are commonly cited strengths. The ability to embark on overnight trips and continue sailing in the morning is a highlight for many, fostering a sense of adventure and freedom.

The MacGregor 36 also tends to attract attention, with owners noting it "gets attention everywhere you go!". While specific recurring "problem areas" are not widely detailed in owner reviews, the nature of older vessels often leads to routine maintenance needs such as re-bedding original deck fittings or updating interior elements like cushions, as seen in various owner projects. Overall, the MacGregor 36 is valued for its unique combination of trailerability, sailing performance, and the distinct experience it offers as an accessible multihull.