Yamaha 36 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Introduced in 1979, the Yamaha 36 represents a period when Yamaha, primarily known as a motor company, significantly expanded its presence in the marine world, including an notable venture into sailboat manufacturing. The company's founder, Genichi Kawakami, instilled a philosophy of "enjoy life," which drove Yamaha's expansion into diverse product lines, including marine products built with pioneering Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) technology. This commitment to precision manufacturing and innovative use of FRP allowed Yamaha to produce hulls with remarkable accuracy, a hallmark of their quality during this era. Production of the Yamaha 36 continued into the early 1980s, with models noted as late as 1983, showcasing its initial success in the export market, particularly to the United States 3, 4, Builder Article.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Yamaha 36 is recognized for its solid sailing characteristics, balancing comfort with a lively feel at the helm. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 19.05, the Yamaha 36 is well-powered, suggesting a boat that will be responsive and perform well in a variety of wind conditions, including lighter air. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.447 indicates a highly stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up to a good breeze without excessive heel, providing a secure and comfortable motion offshore. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 228.18 places the Yamaha 36 firmly in the category of a moderate cruiser, a design that offers a good balance between speed and load-carrying capacity.

Anecdotal reports from owners and marine professionals consistently praise the Yamaha 36's sailing prowess. It is described as a good performer that is "very stable / stiff" and offers "splendid manoeuvrability," largely attributed to its fin keel design. Many attest that these boats "sail extremely well," capable of spirited day sailing and comfortable coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Yamaha 36 are not extensively documented in widely available resources, the boat is known for offering comfortable accommodations, aligning with its design as a cruising yacht. Given Yamaha's reputation for quality construction, it can be inferred that the interior would feature robust joinery and thoughtful use of materials typical of its era. Cruisers of this size and vintage commonly feature a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a central salon with settees and a dinette, a functional galley, and quarter berths aft, providing ample space for extended trips. Owners seeking original manuals or plans often highlight the desire for detailed documentation, suggesting that specific interior layouts might vary or require deeper investigation beyond general reviews.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and marine professionals frequently commend the Yamaha 36 for its overall quality and sailing performance. Surveyors and brokers who are familiar with the model often refer to it as "a great boat," underscoring its positive reputation in the sailing community. Owners consistently praise its robust construction, stability, and enjoyable handling characteristics. The sentiment among those who sail them is overwhelmingly positive, often highlighting its capabilities for both spirited day sailing and comfortable cruising.