Galway 36 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The model was also rebranded as the Westerly W35 in 1979, further cementing its place in the Westerly lineage.

The Westerly Galway 36 emerged during a prolific period for Westerly Marine Ltd., a company that dominated the UK leisure yachting industry in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The builder was known for its commitment to constructing quality Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) yachts, a philosophy that underpinned the design and construction of the Galway 36. Each Galway 36, like other 36-foot Westerlys of its era, carried a Lloyd's Certificate, assuring a high standard of build quality and structural integrity.

Laurent Giles, the celebrated designer, penned the lines for the Galway 36. The design emphasized practicality and comfort for extended cruising. Throughout its production run, the Galway 36 was offered with both sloop and ketch rig configurations, providing owners with options to suit their sailing preferences. The boat also boasted the availability of four different interior layouts, offering significant customization for buyers. The twin-keel configuration was a distinctive feature, allowing for reduced draft and the ability to take the ground safely in tidal areas.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Galway 36 is characterized by its heavy-displacement hull, a hallmark of traditional cruisers designed for stability and comfort in a seaway. With a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 279.7, she is a substantial vessel for her length, suggesting a comfortable motion rather than a focus on extreme speed. The high Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.477 indicates excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a strong breeze without excessive heeling.

The Sail Area to Displacement ratio, when calculated using the main and largest genoa (732 sq ft), comes in at approximately 17.44. This figure suggests a moderately powered cruiser that will perform adequately in light airs but truly shine when the wind builds. Anecdotal evidence from owners of the Conway 36, which shares the same hull, suggests the boat is a "cinch to sail," pointing to predictable and manageable handling characteristics. The twin keel design, while often associated with some compromise in upwind performance compared to a deep fin keel, offers significant advantages for coastal cruising, notably allowing access to shallower anchorages and the ability to dry out on tidal moorings.

Accommodations and Layout

The Westerly Galway 36 was celebrated for its spacious interior, offering considerable comfort for a yacht of its size. With four distinct interior layouts available, owners had flexibility in configuring their living spaces. Common to these layouts would typically be a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon featuring L-shaped seating capable of accommodating six people, a well-appointed galley, and a dedicated head compartment. A notable design feature for this aft-cockpit variant was generally good access to any aft cabin arrangements directly from the main saloon, optimizing flow within the interior.

While specific details of all four layouts are varied, Westerly interiors of this era were typically finished with a blend of wood trim and robust fiberglass, emphasizing durability and a traditional yacht aesthetic. Owners often praise the practicality and ample storage found throughout the boat, essential for longer voyages. Ventilation, crucial for comfort, would typically be managed through opening ports and overhead hatches in key areas.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Galway 36 frequently praise its solid construction and reputation as a safe, long-distance cruiser. The active Westerly Owners Association is a testament to the enduring popularity and strong community surrounding these yachts, providing a valuable resource for maintenance advice, historical information, and shared experiences. The boat's robust build and forgiving handling characteristics make it a favored choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable vessel for extended coastal or offshore cruising. While specific common issues are not broadly detailed in available reviews, the overall sentiment points to a sturdy and well-regarded cruiser that has stood the test of time.