Morris 36 Justine Information, Review, Specs

The Morris 36 Justine entered production in 1983, emerging from a period where Morris Yachts, founded in 1972 by Tom Morris, was solidifying its reputation for hand-crafted sailboats that married classic lines with robust construction. The Justine 36, designed by the acclaimed Chuck Paine, was envisioned as a "perfectly simple sailing" boat that would appeal to those valuing traditional styling and exceptional sailing characteristics. Paine's design ethos for the Justine 36 emphasized a graceful sheer, well-proportioned lines, and a hull form that offered both speed and seaworthiness.

Consistent with Morris Yachts' commitment to quality, the Justine 36 was built with solid fiberglass hulls and decks, ensuring a durable and long-lasting vessel. During its production run, which saw 33 units built, the model was offered with variations in its underwater profile, including both a long keel and shoal draft versions. Some later iterations featured a modern Chuck Paine "scheel-type" keel paired with a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to a quick and stiff sailing performance. The cutter rig, a common feature, was chosen for its ability to break down the sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, a significant advantage for offshore sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Morris 36 Justine is widely regarded as a good performer, blending stability with a responsive nature. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.9 suggests a balanced cruiser, capable of respectable speeds without being overly sensitive to light winds or overpowered in heavier conditions. The high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.41 indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.

With a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 271, the Justine 36 is classified as a moderate to heavy cruiser, reflecting her sturdy build and capacity for stores and equipment necessary for extended voyaging. Anecdotal accounts often praise the Justine 36 for her "exceptionally well" sailing characteristics, with reviewers noting her as a "fast sailing" boat that is "terrific all-around". Owners and reviewers highlight her balance and seaworthiness, affirming her suitability for both coastal cruising and more challenging offshore passages. The cutter rig further enhances her handling, allowing for versatile sail plans to match varying wind conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Morris 36 Justine is celebrated for its traditional styling and high-quality finish, although specific layouts and details can vary between individual boats. Morris Yachts is known for its exquisite joinery, and the Justine 36 exemplifies this dedication to craftsmanship, typically featuring rich wood trim and meticulously finished surfaces that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design goal was to create a genuine cruising boat with comfortable living spaces.

Typical interior arrangements often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a well-appointed galley, and a navigation station. Storage is generally ample, reflecting the boat's cruising aspirations. Ventilation is typically achieved through opening ports and overhead hatches, contributing to comfort at anchor or in a marina. The focus on "Morris style" joinery and a "dream home on the water" approach ensures that accommodations are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and comfortable for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morris 36 Justine consistently express a strong sense of pride in their vessels, often highlighting the boat's solid construction and overall seaworthiness. Many appreciate its reliability and robust build quality, which makes it a trusted choice for both adventurous offshore journeys and leisurely coastal exploration. The traditional styling and comfortable motion in a seaway are frequently lauded attributes, aligning with the Morris Yachts philosophy of a sublime owner experience. While specific common weaknesses are not widely documented, the recurring theme among owners is satisfaction with the boat's performance, quality, and timeless appeal. The Morris 36 Justine is often considered "the heart and soul of Morris Yachts' heritage," reflecting its status as a beloved and respected model within the sailing community.