Bavaria Bavaria Cruiser 36 (2005-2010) Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Bavaria Cruiser 36 is widely regarded as a stiff and predictable coastal cruiser. With a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 184 and a sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) near 19, the boat is optimized for comfort rather than light-wind racing performance. The hull features a relatively full bow and a broad stern, which provides significant initial stability but results in a "puffed out" profile that may not "knife" through chop as efficiently as narrower designs, as noted in early reviews by Sailing Magazine.

Handling is generally characterized by "fingertip control" at the wheel, thanks to a well-balanced rudder and a 9/10 fractional rig usually supplied by Seldén. Most models were equipped with in-mast furling as a standard convenience, though a fully battened main was available for owners seeking better sail shape and upwind performance. The boat tracks reliably, and under power, the 28hp or 29hp Volvo Penta diesel with saildrive provides sufficient thrust to reach a cruising speed of roughly 6 knots at 2,200 RPM, with a top speed near 7.2 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Cruiser 36 is defined by its impressive volume and a headroom of approximately 1.90 meters (6'3") throughout much of the saloon. Bavaria offered the boat in two primary configurations: a two-cabin layout and a three-cabin layout. The two-cabin version is often preferred by private owners as it features a significantly larger head and an expansive starboard lazarette for storage. In contrast, the three-cabin version was a staple of Mediterranean charter fleets, squeezing two double berths into the aft section, which slightly reduces the size of the galley and the forward cabin’s footprint.

The woodwork is typically finished in a warm mahogany veneer, providing a more traditional aesthetic compared to the lighter, more clinical interiors found in later Farr-designed models. Large fixed hull ports and numerous opening hatches ensure the saloon is well-ventilated and bright. One notable sibling is the Bavaria 37 Cruiser of the same era; both boats share a very similar hull lineage and design language, though the 37 offers a slightly longer waterline and increased water capacity.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Saildrive Diaphragm: Like many yachts of this vintage, the Volvo Penta saildrive requires a rubber diaphragm seal. Manufacturers recommend replacement every 7 to 10 years; a buyer should verify the last replacement date as this is a labor-intensive "engine-out" or "engine-shifted" task.
• Rudder Bearings: The nylon rudder bearings on Bavarias of this period are known to wear, leading to "play" or a slight clunking sensation in the steering. This is a common maintenance item rather than a structural failure but should be inspected during a survey.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While Bavaria has defended its structural integrity, some owners have reported concerns regarding the bonding of the internal grid (matrix) to the hull after a grounding. Prospective buyers should look for "stress cracks" or "crazing" in the gelcoat around the trailing edge of the keel or signs of movement in the bilge grid.
• Cabinet Latches: The push-button latches used on the locker doors post-2002 were sometimes downgraded in quality compared to earlier models and are prone to jamming or breaking.
• Holding Tank Plumbing: On three-cabin models, the gravity-drainage system for the holding tanks can occasionally suffer from blockages due to the horizontal run of the piping.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Cruiser 36 benefit from the Bavaria Yacht Owners Association (BYOA), a highly active technical group that maintains an extensive archive of manuals and DIY solutions. Additionally, technical resources and spare parts catalogs are frequently maintained by maritime suppliers such as SVB, which hosts a dedicated "Bavaria Owners Club" section for specific model components.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for a 36-foot yacht.
• Easy to handle shorthanded with all lines led aft to the cockpit.
• Strong secondary market value and parts availability due to high production numbers.
• Predictable and stable sailing characteristics suitable for families.

Cons:

• Standard iron keel and full bow limit performance in light airs and upwind.
• Interior joinery can feel "mass-produced" compared to higher-end boutique brands.
• The three-cabin version can feel cramped when fully occupied.