Soverel 36 (1975) CB Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Soverel 36 (1975) CB aligns with Soverel Marine's core philosophy of delivering high-performance racing yachts with bespoke craftsmanship. Founded by Bill Soverel, a successful sailboat racer himself, Soverel Marine, based in North Palm Beach, Florida, became known for yachts that excelled on the racecourse while offering a level of customisation rare among production builders.

Mark Soverel, following in his father Bill's footsteps, designed the Soverel 36 (1975) CB, contributing to the family legacy of innovative raceboat designs. During its production run from 1975 to 1984, Soverel Marine allowed buyers significant flexibility in construction. This included choices in hull layup—such as solid fiberglass, foam, or balsa coring, sometimes with coring only above the waterline—and deck construction, which could also be balsa cored. notes, Builder Article, 7] This semi-custom approach meant that each Soverel 36 could possess unique characteristics tailored to individual client needs.

A notable variation of the Soverel 36 (1975) was its availability with either a fixed keel or a centerboard (CB) configuration. The fixed keel version offered a draft of 6.5 feet, while the centerboard model provided a versatile draft range from a minimum of 3.75 feet to a maximum of 8.25 feet, enhancing access to shallower waters. There was also a more cruising-oriented version with a keel/centerboard, featuring less sail area and more ballast.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Soverel 36 (1975) CB, with its design rooted in performance, offers a balanced sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.33 suggests a capable all-around performer, rather than an extreme light-air specialist, suitable for varied wind conditions. The boat's Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at a significant 0.5357, indicating a very stiff and stable vessel, well-equipped to stand up to a considerable amount of wind and maintain its sail plan effectively.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 213.29 places the Soverel 36 in the moderate displacement category, suggesting a design that prioritizes a blend of performance and comfort over ultra-light racing characteristics or heavy-displacement cruising. With a hull speed calculated at 7.44 knots, the Soverel 36 is designed to move efficiently through the water. Its cutter rig, featuring a broken-down sail plan, provides smaller, more manageable sails, a configuration often favored for offshore sailing due to its ease of handling and versatility in changing conditions. The builder's general reputation for producing yachts known for speed implies a lively and engaging sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed layouts and interior finishes of individual Soverel 36 models can vary due to Soverel Marine's semi-customisation options, the boat's design generally emphasizes functionality and a well-conceived interior, reflecting the builder's philosophy of balancing performance with practicality., 7] The hull is constructed of fiberglass, as is the deck, though some decks were available with balsa core. 1, notes Interior details, such as maximum headroom, are not universally documented, but at least one tall owner noted potential cabin height limitations. The boat is equipped with a water capacity of 45 US gallons. Given Soverel Marine's approach, interiors would typically feature quality materials and craftsmanship consistent with custom builders of the era, aimed at providing a comfortable and practical living space for a vessel of its size.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Soverel yachts often appreciate their robust construction and impressive performance characteristics, with the brand known for delivering a distinctive handling experience and competitive edge. Discussions among owners suggest that the Mark Soverel-designed 36-foot models are distinct from earlier Bill Soverel designs, with an estimated 14 units of the 1975 iteration. Prospective owners have considered the Soverel 36 as a suitable "first proper boat" due to its appealing performance for its price point. While specific recurring issues are not widely documented in general owner forums, the overall sentiment regarding Soverel boats tends to highlight their durability and sailing prowess, maintaining a vibrant community of enthusiasts around these classic vessels.