Morgan 36-5 Information, Review, Specs

The Morgan 36-5 entered production in 1985, following a significant period of evolution for Morgan Yachts. By this time, the company, founded by Charles "Charley" E. Morgan Jr., had transitioned through various corporate entities, eventually being acquired by Catalina Yachts in 1984 Overview. While Charles Morgan himself had departed in 1972, the Morgan brand continued to produce sailboats that reflected a blend of performance and cruising comfort, characteristic of the 1980s' "refined cruising experience".

The design of the Morgan 36-5 was entrusted to the highly respected Nelson/Marek firm, a departure from Charley Morgan's direct designs. This collaboration resulted in a modern fin keel with a spade rudder hull type and a masthead sloop rigging, indicating a focus on performance for its time. During its production run, there were variations in the model, with some "R" versions featuring a larger rig and a more stripped-down interior for racing, alongside "cruisey" versions. Additionally, the main boom length (E measurement) was reduced on later boats, a modification potentially made for IOR (International Offshore Rule) tweaking.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Morgan 36-5 demonstrates a thoughtful balance of performance and stability, evidenced by its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.9, she exhibits good potential for performance in lighter air, a characteristic often praised by owners. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.33 suggests moderate stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind while maintaining a comfortable motion. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 208.8 classifies her as a moderate-displacement vessel, contributing to her identity as a good-performing, moderate-weight sailboat.

Anecdotal reports from owners frequently highlight the 36-5's solid performance, particularly its ability to point high into the wind ("points to the moon") and maintain speed in light conditions. She is described as a tough, well-built boat that can be competitive in club racing while still offering comfortable cruising capabilities. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration provides responsive handling and good maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for every Morgan 36-5 variant are not extensively documented in common databases, the model generally adheres to the era's focus on blending practical cruising amenities with a performance-oriented platform. The boat's design allowed for both stripped-down "R" versions for racing and more appointed "cruisey" versions, suggesting a degree of flexibility in the interior layout.

Forum discussions hint at a design with a smaller cockpit balanced by a larger cabin space, a common trade-off in racer-cruisers aiming to maximize interior volume without excessively lengthening the hull. Owners have often undertaken significant rebuilds and renovations of these boats, indicating a robust underlying structure that lends itself to long-term ownership and customization. Typical layouts for boats of this size and era would generally include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and a head compartment, often with quarter berths aft. The interior finish would likely feature a combination of fiberglass liners and wood trim, consistent with Morgan Yachts' construction practices.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morgan 36-5 consistently laud its sturdy construction and overall sailing prowess. Many regard it as a "hell of a boat" that is built tough and handles well, particularly praising its ability to sail effectively in light winds and point high. Its rating, often cited around 93 to 99, suggests a competitive spirit for those inclined towards racing. The 36-5 is seen as a versatile platform that has fostered long-term ownership, with many boats having passed through a series of dedicated owners who appreciate its inherent qualities and potential for renovation. The option for both dedicated racing versions and more comfortable cruising configurations allowed owners to choose a boat that best suited their specific sailing aspirations.