Moody 36-1 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Moody 36-1 falls within a significant period for Moody Yachts, a company with roots tracing back to 1827 as a repair yard on the River Hamble. By the 1970s, Moody had firmly established itself in the production yacht market, embracing GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction, which allowed for greater efficiency while maintaining their core values of durability and craftsmanship. The 36-1, designed by Angus Primrose, followed in the wake of the highly successful Moody 33, a collaboration that had cemented Moody's presence in the production yacht scene in 1972.

Angus Primrose's design philosophy for vessels like the Moody 36-1 typically focused on creating stable and forgiving boats that inspired confidence in cruising sailors. The 36-1, with its traditional fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, reflects a design approach prioritizing predictable handling and offshore capability. While later Moody 36 models, such as the MkII designed by Bill Dixon, introduced variations like center cockpits and different keel configurations, the original 36-1 maintained a consistent design as an aft-cockpit cruiser with a maximum draft of 5.0 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody 36-1 is characterized by a design optimized for comfortable cruising rather than outright racing, yet her sailing qualities have surprised many for a boat of her era. With a length overall of 36 feet and a waterline length of 30.5 feet, she possesses a respectable hull speed of 7.4 knots. Her sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 13.46, indicates that she is a moderate to heavy displacement cruiser, suggesting steady performance in a breeze but requiring more wind to truly come alive in lighter conditions.

Her displacement to length ratio of around 231 further categorizes her as a substantial cruiser, built to handle various sea states with comfort. A key indicator of her stability is the ballast to displacement ratio, which stands at an impressive 45.44% (based on a ballast of 6,680 lbs). This high ratio points to a stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to strong winds and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners have described the Moody 36-1 as "easily handled single-handed" with "very good performance" for a cruising yacht. While generally capable, some observations suggest she may require a larger spinnaker or chute to optimize her performance downwind. Overall, she offers predictable handling and a reassuringly stable ride, making her a popular choice for cruisers.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moody 36-1 is renowned for its traditional British yachting aesthetic, often featuring beautifully crafted dark mahogany joinery that imparts a warm and inviting atmosphere. While specific headroom figures for the 36-1 are not universally available, Moody yachts of this period were generally designed with good standing headroom, with similar later models offering around 6 feet in key areas like the saloon and forward cabin.

Typical for an aft-cockpit cruiser of her size, the layout usually includes a forward V-berth cabin, a main saloon with opposing settees (which often convert to berths), a galley, and a navigation station. A head compartment is generally located to port or starboard. Aft, there is often a comfortable quarter berth or a dedicated aft cabin, depending on the exact configuration. Owners praise the thoughtful design that maximizes available space, providing ample storage throughout for provisions and personal gear. Ventilation is typically provided by opening ports and deck hatches, contributing to a comfortable living environment at anchor or in moderate climates. The overall finish quality is consistent with Moody's reputation for solid and durable construction, utilizing materials designed for longevity in the marine environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 36-1 generally hold their vessels in high regard, often referring to them as "super yachts" for their capabilities and comfort. The solid construction and inherent seaworthiness, hallmarks of Moody's design philosophy, are frequently praised, giving owners confidence in challenging conditions. Many appreciate her ease of handling, making her suitable for single-handed sailing or short-crewed passages.

While the Moody 36-1 has a reputation for being robust, some common maintenance considerations for a yacht of this vintage can arise. A recurring issue noted across older Moody models, which may also apply to the 36-1, is the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, necessitating re-bedding. However, compared to many other vessels of similar age, the Moody 36 series, including the 36-1, is often cited for having "very few known issues" that significantly affect ownership, underscoring its enduring reliability. The strong community of Moody owners worldwide also provides valuable support and shared appreciation for these classic cruisers.