New York 36 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the New York 36 dates back to the late 1970s when members of the New York Yacht Club commissioned William Cook to design a vessel suitable for class racing within their ranks, while simultaneously being competitive in IOR handicap races. The first hull, named FAIR AMERICAN, launched in 1980, marking the beginning of a production run that continued until 1985. During this period, W.D. Schock built a total of 88 units, with over 60 of these specifically for the New York Yacht Club's one-design fleet, which actively raced on the annual NYYC Cruise throughout much of the 1980s. A significant number were also sold to non-members, particularly on the West Coast, where the class also saw racing activity.

William Cook's design philosophy for the New York 36 was rooted in creating high-performance IOR boats, a field in which his designs had already secured multiple championships and offshore regattas. The builder, W.D. Schock, contributed its established reputation for quality fiberglass yacht construction, specializing in robust and practical designs. Throughout its history, W.D. Schock was known for blending performance with sound construction, a commitment reflected in the enduring quality of many of their older models, including the New York 36.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The New York 36 exhibits characteristics typical of IOR-era racer/cruisers, with a design geared towards performance. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 22.23 suggests a boat with ample sail power, indicating strong performance in lighter air. This is echoed by anecdotal reports that the boat is "killer" in winds under 8-10 knots. With a Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.42, the New York 36 demonstrates good inherent stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to its rig. Its Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 41.0 places it in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for its size, rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser.

Despite its light-air prowess, some owners note that in winds over 15 knots, the New York 36 can behave like a "typical IOR pig," tending to dig in. Overall, the boat is generally considered to sail well for its PHRF rating, which has been noted in the range of 110-114. The cockpit, while functional for racing, has been described by some as less convenient than more modern designs, particularly for those accustomed to contemporary layouts. However, for experienced sailors, the boat can be managed for short-handed or single-handed cruising, though it typically requires a crew of 4-5 for cruising and 5-8 for racing to optimize its performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the New York 36 is limited in available documentation. However, consistent with its design as both a racer and a boat capable of "two couple cruising," the interior would have offered a functional arrangement common to performance yachts of the early 1980s. Given its primary emphasis on racing and the constraints of the IOR rule, the accommodations would likely prioritize efficient use of space over extensive luxury. While specific details on V-berths, head, salon, galley, or quarter berths are not widely published, the design intent suggests a layout that provides essential comforts for overnight stays and offshore passages without compromising its racing capabilities.