Tide 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Tide 36 in 2022 represents a strategic diversification for MFH Maritime Faserverbundtechnik GmbH & Co. KG, a company with deep roots in advanced fiber composite technology honed through military shipbuilding. Under new management, MFH extended its expertise from specialized components for naval vessels and mega yachts to its own line of recreational sailing yachts, building upon the foundation laid by previous models like the Tide 34, also designed by Marc-Oliver von Ahlen.

The design philosophy behind the Tide 36 is a deliberate fusion of classic elegance and modern sailing dynamics. Designer Marc-Oliver von Ahlen conceived a yacht with sleek lines, a positive yacht stern, low freeboard, and distinctive oval windows, aiming for a "retro classic" aesthetic that is "unrivalled on the market." MFH’s background in utilizing advanced materials like carbon, Kevlar, and pressure-resistant foams, derived from stringent naval shipbuilding standards, ensures that the Tide 36 benefits from exceptional durability, precision, and sophisticated engineering. This commitment to pioneering materials and meticulous construction techniques is a hallmark of MFH's operations, translating into superior structural integrity and longevity for the Tide 36. The yacht is offered with several keel options to suit various sailing grounds, including a shallow keel option with a draft of 1.65 meters (5.4 ft) and a swing keel option ranging from 1.05 to 2 meters (3.44 to 6.56 ft), in addition to its standard maximum draft of 6.23 feet (1.90 m).

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tide 36 is designed as a lively and responsive performance cruiser, an interpretation supported by its key performance ratios. With a high Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 25.6, the Tide 36 is well-equipped for excellent performance in lighter air conditions, suggesting it will be quick to accelerate and maintain speed even when the wind is soft. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 117, categorizes it as a light displacement vessel, indicative of a boat built for performance rather than heavy-duty cruising. This lighter build contributes to its agile handling and responsiveness.

While the ballast to displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.31, this moderate figure, combined with its modern hull form, bulb keel, and spade rudder, provides sufficient stability for comfortable and secure sailing. Reviews highlight the Tide 36's capabilities as a "performance cruiser," noting its "fast design with classic references." Its tiller steering, self-tacking jib, and fairly large rudder contribute to its agile and balanced handling characteristics, making it particularly well-suited for single-handed sailing. The boat's design enables it to perform effectively across various sea states, offering a blend of speed and precise control.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tide 36 reflects the same thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship found on deck, described as "well-finished" and consistently extending the design principles from the exterior. Despite its sleek lines, the classic long-drawn design of the Tide 36 allows for a maximum headroom of almost 1.90 meters (6.23 ft), providing a comfortable living space below deck.

The layout typically features two guest cabins, a design choice that, along with a Mediterranean cockpit, optimizes both living space and functionality. Owners can expect a "nice owner's cabin on the bow" which includes an armchair corner, enhancing comfort and usability. While the interior can be described as "quite tight and flat" in certain areas due to its performance-oriented hull, the use of high-quality materials and meticulous finishing, including oval windows with high-gloss stainless steel frames, underscores MFH's commitment to precision engineering and sophisticated aesthetics. The general impression is one of quality and bespoke craftsmanship, appealing to those who appreciate a finely appointed marine interior.