Robinhood 36 Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the Robinhood 36 begins with its deep roots in the esteemed Cape Dory 36, a design by Carl Alberg. Production of the Robinhood 36 commenced in 1992 and continued until 2006. This model came into being after Cape Dory Yachts ceased operations in 1991, at which point the hull molds for the Cape Dory 36 were acquired and transported to Robinhood Marine Center. Consequently, the Robinhood 36 is largely considered the direct successor, built from the same molds and maintaining the core design principles of its predecessor.

Carl Alberg, the prolific designer behind the Robinhood 36, was a firm believer in conservative, seaworthy yacht architecture. His design philosophy favored long keels with attached rudders, a relatively narrow beam, and slack bilges, all contributing to vessels that were easy to handle and provided a comfortable motion in various sea states. Robinhood Marine Center, with its long tradition of constructing high-quality custom yachts since 1950, continued this ethos, bringing a reputation for bespoke craftsmanship to the production of the Robinhood 36. While fundamentally the same vessel, some suggest the Robinhood 36 offered more updated equipment and a heightened level of refinement compared to the original Cape Dory 36, with subtle differences such as bronze anchor rollers on the bowsprit instead of rubber.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Robinhood 36 embodies the characteristics of a heavy displacement cruiser, designed for comfortable passage-making rather than outright speed. With a displacement of 16,000 pounds and a waterline length of 27.83 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 332 places it firmly in the heavy cruiser category, indicating a stable and comfortable ride, particularly in rougher conditions. Its sail area to displacement ratio of about 15.66 suggests a moderate performer, capable in average winds but not necessarily a light-air flyer.

The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio, at roughly 37.8%, points to good initial stability and the ability to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. The long keel design, characteristic of Alberg's work, contributes significantly to the boat's excellent directional stability, making it track well in a seaway. This robust keel, however, can also mean less maneuverability in confined harbor spaces compared to vessels with fin keels. Owners generally find the cutter rig advantageous, as it breaks the total sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, which is particularly beneficial for offshore sailing and easier reefing in increasing winds. While some sources suggest the Cape Dory 36 (and by extension, the Robinhood 36) can be slow and may heel considerably in strong winds, requiring early reefing, others argue its performance has been unfairly understated, noting its proven, conservative design makes it a reliable cruising boat.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Robinhood 36 is designed with a straightforward and functional layout, prioritizing comfortable living for extended cruising. Typically, the arrangement features a traditional V-berth in the forward stateroom. The main salon often includes a settee that can convert into berths, alongside a well-appointed galley and a dedicated head compartment.

A hallmark of both Cape Dory and Robinhood Marine Center construction is the high-quality finish and use of traditional materials. The interior is characterized by handcrafted teak cabinets and trim throughout, often complemented by a gloss-varnished teak and holly cabin sole. This attention to detail and material selection gives the interior a warm, classic yacht ambiance. While specific details on storage and ventilation are not extensively documented in available snippets, the general design philosophy of cruising yachts of this era, combined with the builder's reputation, suggests ample storage for provisions and personal gear, and adequate ventilation for comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Robinhood 36, much like those of its predecessor the Cape Dory 36, consistently praise its solid construction and the comfortable motion it provides, especially in challenging sea conditions. The boat's conservative and proven design is frequently cited as a major strength, contributing to its reliability and seaworthiness. Many appreciate the high-quality build and the timeless aesthetic of the interior finishes, particularly the extensive use of teak. The directional stability offered by its long keel is also a frequently lauded characteristic for offshore passages.

Regarding common issues, there are few "serious problems as a class" reported for the Cape Dory 36, which translates to the Robinhood 36. However, some owners note that while stable, the boat can be slower than more modern designs and may exhibit significant heel in higher winds, necessitating early reefing. Like many older vessels, potential owners should inspect for signs of deck delamination, though it is not cited as a widespread issue for this particular model. The long keel, while beneficial for tracking, can make close-quarters maneuvering more challenging in marinas. Overall, owners typically view the Robinhood 36 as a well-built, capable, and comfortable cruising yacht.