Halberdier 36 (Moody) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Halberdier 36 marked a pivotal moment for Moody, signifying their entry into fiberglass yacht production. The design, penned by Alan F. Hill, was specifically intended to meet the growing demand for a high-quality yacht that performed admirably under both sail and power. Production commenced in 1967 and continued until 1973, with 29 units built during this period. The construction process involved a strategic partnership where the pioneering fiberglass boat builder Marine Construction Ltd. (Marcon), known for its solid cruising designs like the Trident 24, molded the hulls. Marcon, founded by Eric White in 1964, had established itself with a reputation for robust, traditionally styled small yachts built to be reliable and seaworthy. Moody then undertook the finishing of these hulls, ensuring the distinctive quality associated with their brand. This collaborative approach leveraged Marcon's expertise in fiberglass molding and Moody's craftsmanship in fitting out, resulting in a vessel noted for its durability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody Halberdier 36, despite its motorsailer classification, is regarded as a genuine sailing yacht, characterized by a classic long keel hull form and a powerful ketch rig. Her design ratios underscore her heavy displacement and robust nature. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 13.07, she is not designed for blistering light-air performance but rather for steady, reliable progress, particularly in moderate to heavy winds, where her ample sail area can be effectively deployed. A Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.377 suggests good stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant breeze without excessive heel. However, it is the Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 928.5 that truly highlights her character as a very heavy displacement vessel. This high ratio, combined with her long keel, translates to exceptional directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, making her well-suited for serious cruising. Owners frequently describe her build quality as "massive" and appreciate her solid, reassuring feel under sail, indicative of a vessel built to tackle challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moody Halberdier 36 is designed for comfort and practicality, reflecting its cruising intentions. The layout typically allows for six adults to sleep comfortably across two cabins and the main saloon. The forward cabin, or foc'sle, usually features two full-length berths. A notable arrangement includes the head with a shower, toilet, and basin on the port side, complemented by a wardrobe on the starboard. While specific details on headroom are not available, owners often describe the interior as "roomy," emphasizing a comfortable living space for its size. The fit-out, consistent with the Moody brand of the era, would have emphasized quality materials and sturdy construction, designed for durability in a marine environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody Halberdier 36 consistently praise the yacht's solid construction and robust build quality. The vessels are often described as being "built like tanks," instilling confidence in their seaworthiness and longevity. Many owners find the Halberdier 36 suitable for liveaboard purposes for two people, appreciating the internal volume and comfort. Her inherent stability and strong construction also make her a popular choice for those contemplating extended cruising or even offshore voyages. While specific common problems are not widely reported, the enduring appeal of the Halberdier 36 lies in its reputation as a reliable, capable, and comfortable motorsailer that can provide genuine sailing pleasure.