Seaforth 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Seaforth 36 emerged from the shipyards of Trident Marine Ltd. in 1980, carrying forward the builder's established ethos of crafting heavy-displacement, long-keel cruising yachts renowned for their exceptional sea-keeping abilities. Trident Marine, founded in 1968 by John Brown, prioritized solid, reliable construction, often utilizing robust fiberglass hulls designed to withstand demanding conditions. The design by C. S. J. Roy for the Seaforth 36 aligns with this philosophy, aiming for stability, comfort, and safety rather than outright speed. While the standard configuration featured a twin keel, providing excellent shallow-water access and the ability to dry out, a fin keel version was also produced, offering a deeper draft of 4.83 feet for potentially enhanced upwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seaforth 36, rigged as a masthead ketch, is generally considered easier to handle due to its divided sail plan with smaller individual sails. However, with a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 11.95, it is classified as an underpowered sailboat, suggesting it may struggle in lighter winds. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 33.3% indicates a reasonably stable and stiff boat with good righting capability, capable of standing up to moderate wind conditions. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 246 positions the Seaforth 36 as a moderate-weight vessel, striking a balance between lighter performance-oriented yachts and heavier, more traditional cruisers. The designer opted for a hull form that leans towards speed, yet in practice, some owners have characterized its sailing performance as akin to a "motor boat," implying a more sedate pace under sail. The vessel offers a comfortable motion at sea, with a comfort ratio of 26.87, placing it just below average when compared to similar designs, yet still more comfortable than 46% of them.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior details of the Seaforth 36 is not extensively documented in available specifications. While some descriptions commend its versatile layout as ideal for cruising or living aboard, and note its presentation as "exceptionally well presented," other owner perspectives have characterized the interior as "cramped" and "not very well fitted out." Without specific data on maximum headroom, it is difficult to provide precise dimensions, but the general consensus suggests an emphasis on practicality for offshore conditions. The interior typically features a functional arrangement designed to maximize living space within its dimensions, common for cruising yachts of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seaforth 36 often praise its solid hull construction, a hallmark of Trident Marine's building philosophy. The twin keel variant is particularly valued for its ability to take the ground, offering flexibility for shallow anchorages and maintenance. The ketch rig is appreciated for its ease of handling, especially when sailing downwind or on a broad reach, contributing to a more comfortable motion at sea. However, the boat's "underpowered" nature leads some owners to consider it more of a "motor sailer," relying on engine power in lighter wind conditions. While opinions vary regarding the interior finish and spaciousness, the Seaforth 36 is generally regarded as a robust and dependable vessel for those prioritizing offshore capability and a forgiving motion in varying sea states.