Arcona 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Arcona 36's production commenced in 1986 and continued through 1995, marking a period where Swedish craftsmanship met evolving design philosophies. While the builder article notes that Marieholm Boats ceased its operations as a business in 1986, the indicates Marieholm as the builder for the Arcona 36, suggesting a continuity or association during this transitional period for the brand. The Arcona brand itself, however, was known for a distinct design philosophy. Designer Stefan Qviberg focused on delivering sailing yachts that offered a compelling blend of speed, build quality, and comfort, specifically aiming to create boats capable of competing.

Aligning with Marieholm's established manufacturing ethos, the Arcona 36 benefited from robust fiberglass construction, emphasizing durability and seaworthiness. Key design features included a lead keel and a high aspect rig, which were significant for its performance profile. While the hull from the waterline down and the rigging largely remained consistent throughout its production, minor modifications, such as to an elliptical rudder, were introduced. The successful lines of the Arcona 36 were later developed into other models, including the Arcona 38 and 40 DS, showcasing its foundational influence within the Arcona range.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Arcona 36 is lauded for its sailing performance, a hallmark of the Arcona brand's "ultimate performance cruiser" identity. With a reported sail area of 688 square feet and a displacement of 13,228 pounds, the Arcona 36 boasts a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 19.72. This indicates a vessel well-suited for light to moderate air conditions, capable of delivering engaging performance without requiring excessive wind.

Its stability and stiffness are evident in a Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 41.6% (5,512 lbs ballast to 13,228 lbs displacement), a high figure that allows the boat to stand up to a good breeze and maintain its sail plan effectively. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 237.3 (based on a 29.2 ft waterline), places the Arcona 36 firmly in the category of a performance-oriented cruiser—not excessively light, but certainly not a heavy-displacement traditional yacht. The Arcona 36 is known for its ability to combine speed with comfort. Indeed, its "relative speed performance is 85," signifying that it is faster than 85% of comparable sailboat designs, underscoring its capabilities on the water. With a theoretical hull speed of 7.24 knots, it is designed for efficient passage making.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications for the Arcona 36's interior headroom are not readily available in the provided data, Arcona yachts, in general, are recognized for their consistently high-quality, light-filled, and well-appointed interiors. The Arcona 36 typically features a beautiful mahogany interior, contributing to a warm and classic atmosphere below deck. The hull and deck are constructed from fiberglass, providing a solid and durable foundation for the interior spaces.

Like many performance cruisers of its size and era, the Arcona 36 generally offers a practical and comfortable layout designed for coastal cruising and extended stays. This would typically include a forward V-berth cabin, a saloon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley for meal preparation, and a navigation station. A head compartment would also be standard. The focus on quality materials, as seen with the mahogany trim, indicates a commitment to a refined cruising experience, despite the emphasis on sailing performance.