Controversy 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Controversy 36 emerged from Mount Desert Yacht Yard in 1960, a period when the yard, under the visionary leadership of E. Farnham Butler, was solidifying its reputation for crafting distinctive cruising yachts. While the original vessel, "Constellation," was launched earlier in 1953, the broader production of the Controversy 36 model began at the turn of the decade. The design, a collaboration between Butler and naval architect Cyrus Hamlin, was deeply rooted in the yard's ethos of creating light displacement, reverse sheer cruising boats. This signature reverse sheer, curving downwards towards the bow and stern, was not merely an aesthetic choice but also provided practical benefits, such as increased interior volume. The yard predominantly utilized traditional wooden construction, often employing strip-planking for its hulls, a technique favored for its ability to create lightweight yet robust designs. Butler's design philosophy for the Controversy series, particularly regarding the interior, was reportedly conceived around "the velocity of children," hinting at a practical, family-friendly layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.34, the Controversy 36 presents as a moderately powered cruiser, capable of respectable performance without being overly sensitive in heavy winds. This ratio suggests she will perform capably across a range of conditions, though she is not optimized purely for light air. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) stands at roughly 0.30, indicating a solid, stable boat designed to stand up to a good breeze. This level of stability contributes to a comfortable motion offshore, a desirable trait for a cruising vessel. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of about 190.14 categorizes the Controversy 36 as a moderate displacement boat, striking a balance between the lighter, performance-oriented designs and heavier, more traditional cruisers of her era. Equipped with a fin keel and a yawl rig, the Controversy 36 is known for sailing well, with the yawl configuration offering enhanced comfort and stability, particularly when sailing downwind or on a broad reach. This combination suggests a yacht that is both responsive and forgiving, providing a confident feel at the helm.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Controversy 36, despite its relatively light displacement, is noted for offering significant interior space. With a generous cabin headroom of 6 feet, the layout typically features a conventional yet practical arrangement. While specific standard layouts can vary over the production run, owners generally find well-appointed living areas. The design principle of "the velocity of children" suggests a focus on functional, robust spaces suitable for family cruising. Given the Mount Desert Yacht Yard's commitment to traditional wooden construction, the interior likely showcases quality wood trim and finishes, contributing to a classic yacht ambiance. Storage solutions are typically ample for extended cruising, and ventilation would have been managed through traditional deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Controversy 36 consistently express a deep affection for this distinctive design. They frequently praise the collaboration of designers E. Farnham Butler and Cyrus Hamlin, noting that their "Controversy" sailboats sail exceptionally well and provide a generous amount of interior space for their length. The solid wooden construction, often featuring strip-planking, is also a point of appreciation, speaking to the enduring quality of Mount Desert Yacht Yard's craftsmanship. The unique reverse sheer not only distinguishes the boat visually but also contributes to its practical interior volume. While specific common weaknesses or pervasive maintenance issues are not widely documented, the consensus among owners points to a robust and well-regarded cruising platform that continues to offer rewarding sailing experiences decades after its initial launch.