Wrighton 36 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Wrighton 36 is intertwined with the enduring legacy of the Bi-Loup series. The initial design, the Bi-Loup 109, began production around 2016, with its interior layout designed to emphasize the luminosity of the superstructures. Following a period of ownership changes for Wrighton Yachts, and a subsequent revival of the brand in 2019, naval architect Vincent Lebailly was commissioned to modernize the Bi-Loup 109, resulting in the refined Wrighton 36 6, 11, 12, 18, builder article. This new iteration was unveiled around 2021, marking a renewed commitment to high-quality, family-oriented cruising yachts.

Vincent Lebailly's design philosophy for the Bi-Loup 109, and by extension the Wrighton 36, aimed to introduce modernity and innovation to a well-known range of twin-keel cruising yachts. Wrighton Yachts has consistently focused on producing vessels that prioritize stability, ease of handling, and the practical benefits of a shallow draft for exploring a wider array of coastal areas. The shipyard's ethos during this period, particularly under its current ownership, emphasizes robust construction and refined interiors, with aspirations for a quality level "close to the Hallberg-Rassy concept". The Wrighton 36 specifically features a fully modified interior arrangement compared to the Bi-Loup 109, improving cabin sizes and aiming for a more high-end finish with semi-custom options.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wrighton 36 is characterized by its twin-keel hull form, which provides distinct advantages for cruising. With a reported sail area of 802.99 sq ft and a displacement of 14,330 lbs, the boat exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.82. This relatively high number suggests that the Wrighton 36 should offer good performance in lighter air conditions, making it responsive and enjoyable to sail even when winds are moderate.

The Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at roughly 36.9%. While not at the extreme end for stiffness (typically above 40%), this ratio indicates a respectable level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind. Coupled with the inherent stability of a twin-keel design, this contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a key attribute for a family cruiser. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 175, places the Wrighton 36 in the lighter-to-moderate displacement category for its length. This suggests a more performance-oriented profile than heavier, traditional cruisers, offering a blend of speed and comfort.

While specific handling anecdotes for the Wrighton 36 are not widely documented, the core design philosophy emphasizes "ease of handling" for family sailing. The twin-keel configuration, a hallmark of Wrighton yachts, offers excellent tracking stability and the ability to access shallow anchorages and dry out alongside, though it might trade some upwind pointing ability compared to a deep fin keel. The fractional sloop rig further contributes to ease of control, allowing for simpler sail management.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Wrighton 36 has been thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and livability, building upon the foundational elements of its predecessor, the Bi-Loup 109. The Bi-Loup 109's layout was notable for highlighting the "luminosity of the superstructures," creating a bright and airy cabin. For the Wrighton 36, this concept has been further enhanced, with a "fully modified" interior arrangement that specifically improves the sizes of the cabins.

With a generous maximum headroom of 6.36 feet, the interior feels spacious and welcoming. While precise details on every aspect of the layout require specific review of the vessel, the overall design for Wrighton yachts prioritizes comfort and practicality for family sailing. The commitment to a more "high-end" finish and semi-custom options for the Wrighton 36 suggests a focus on quality materials and refined craftsmanship within the living spaces. Owners can expect a well-appointed salon, functional galley, comfortable sleeping berths, and adequate storage, all contributing to an enjoyable experience for extended cruises.