Design and Construction
Farr's lines produced a 35.1-foot LOA hull with an 11.5-foot beam and a 7.2-foot draft on the deep version, the latter paired against a 5.9-foot standard keel on the cruising-oriented model. The aft portion of the cockpit seats are easily-removable lockers that open the cockpit up into an efficient T-shape, providing ample crew space for racing setups while still reading as a conventional cruiser when the boxes are in place anchor. Teak rails on the sheer give firm footing when working to leeward, though they are an uncomfortable obstruction for anyone hiking outboard. Below, the woodwork is African mahogany with an evenly applied cherry stain and a high-quality varnished finish, a step above the utilitarian interiors of many dual-purpose designs.
Rig and Handling
The helm is served by a raised and extended traveler track forward of the wheel, allowing plenty of mainsail travel without crowding the steerer. Molded-in footrests are provided for the helmsman and for foredeck crew working up forward. For owners chasing the full tilt racing model, the boat could be equipped with a three-spreader aluminum Sparcraft rig, Navtec rod rigging, a Tuff Luff headstay system, and spinnaker gear with a carbon fiber pole — a configuration that added a substantial premium over the base price. The deep 7.2-foot keel variant was the racing draft, set against the 5.9-foot standard keel.
Accommodations
Down below, the First 36.7 makes a genuine attempt at cruising comfort without abandoning the race brief. Twin, mirror-image aft staterooms hold large double berths, hanging lockers, and privacy doors. The forward vee berth is minimal for two average-sized adults but works well for children. The galley sports an appropriately sized countertop with full 3-inch-deep fiddles, the nav station to starboard is spacious, and the forward head is adequately sized. A removable dining table lets the saloon open up for racing while preserving a practical living space for coastal cruising.
The Verdict
The First 36.7 is a thoughtfully resolved racer-cruiser that wears both hats without apology. Farr's hull and the configurable cockpit let her pivot between one-design racing and weekending, while the interior — particularly the twin aft cabins and deep-fiddled galley — shows real cruising intent. The teak sheer strake and varnished mahogany are period-correct touches that reward the eye, even if the rails themselves are no friend to a hiking crew.
Pros
- Fast racer/cruiser with a 655 sq ft working sail plan and one-design rule development
- Easily removable aft cockpit lockers create a true T-shaped race cockpit
- Twin aft staterooms with double berths, hanging lockers, and privacy doors
- Spacious nav station and deep-fiddled galley counter for cruising use
- Optional deep 7.2 ft keel or standard 5.9 ft keel to suit venue
Cons
- Teak sheer rails obstruct comfortable hiking outboard
- Forward vee berth minimal for two average adults
- Full racing rig and spinnaker gear carried a steep premium over base
