Morgan 36-4/6 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Morgan 36-4/6 begins in 1982, a period when Morgan Yachts, a prolific American builder founded by Charles "Charley" E. Morgan Jr., was navigating the evolving landscape of fiberglass yacht construction. While Morgan Yachts had already gained renown for its popular cruising lines like the Out Island series, the 36-4/6 represented a foray into more performance-focused designs, leveraging the expertise of the acclaimed naval architecture firm Nelson/Marek. Bruce Nelson and Bruce Marek, who formed their design partnership in 1979, were known for creating fast, well-balanced yachts. Their philosophy often emphasized lighter weight to enhance overall performance.

During this era, Morgan Yachts, even as it was nearing its acquisition by Catalina Yachts in 1984, continued to build boats recognized for their solid construction. The Morgan 36-4/6 was offered with variations, including a keel/centerboard version that allowed for reduced draft, expanding her accessibility to shallower waters. There was also a more performance-oriented variant, sometimes referred to as the NEWSON-MAREK 36R, which featured a shorter coach roof and longer cockpit, indicating a clear intention for racing notes, 16, 21]. The design underwent "IOR tweaking" on later boats, reflecting the ongoing pursuit of competitive advantage under the International Offshore Rule notes].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Morgan 36-4/6, as a Nelson/Marek design, was engineered for spirited performance. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 19.11, she is well-suited for light-air conditions, capable of maintaining momentum when the wind is fickle. Her Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of roughly 33.6% suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heeling, contributing to a comfortable motion. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, around 208.3, places her in the moderate displacement category, leaning towards lighter performance-oriented vessels of her size.

Anecdotal evidence from sailors indicates that these boats are "really fast" and are considered "good all-rounders with better light-air performance," showcasing their versatility on the racecourse and during general cruising. The combination of a fine entry, well-proportioned sail plan, and a spade rudder typically provides responsive handling and good directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions are not consistently documented, the interior of the Morgan 36-4/6 was designed with comfort in mind, reflecting the dual purpose of cruising and racing. Typical layouts often feature a single cabin, providing essential living spaces for extended trips. The hull construction, often exceeding one inch in thickness of fiberglass, speaks to the robust build quality of the era. Some versions were designed with a "smaller cock pit and larger cabin," prioritizing interior volume. Reviews suggest that the build included a "solid mast step box," indicating robust structural integrity for the rig. The overall finish and use of materials, typical of Morgan Yachts, focused on durability and practicality, appealing to owners who valued a sturdy and functional living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morgan 36-4/6 often praise her as a capable and enduring sailboat. Many highlight her strong sailing characteristics, particularly her ability to perform well in various conditions and her aptitude for racing. The boat is frequently regarded as a "Classic Morgan design," appreciating the solid construction from her production era. Discussions among owners often revolve around maintenance and upgrades, with a focus on preserving the vessel's inherent strengths, such as her strong bonding and stiffness. The balance between a performance-oriented hull and practical cruising accommodations makes her a favored choice for those seeking a versatile and well-built yacht with a keen sailing pedigree.