Sailing Performance & Handling
The Bi-Loup 36 is designed to prioritize stability and ease of handling over raw racing speed, yet its VPLP pedigree ensures a surprisingly nimble feel for a boat of its displacement. The twin-keel arrangement utilizes an asymmetric profile; when the boat heels, the leeward keel becomes vertical and provides significant lift, reducing the leeway typically associated with bilge keels. This design allows the boat to track well and maintain a respectable angle to the wind, often rivaling shallow-draft fin keelers.
The boat's sea-kindliness is a result of a generous beam that is carried well aft and a relatively high ballast ratio. Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff," meaning it resists excessive heeling even in freshening breezes, which provides a sense of security for family crews. While the increased surface area of two keels does introduce more drag in light airs compared to a deep-fin keel, the Bi-Loup 36 excels in medium to heavy air where its hull form and stability allow it to carry full sail longer than more tender counterparts. According to technical sheets from Voiles et Voiliers, the yacht was designed to handle the rigors of the Atlantic coast, where tidal range and choppy conditions are the norm.
Interior Comfort & Variations
One of the most distinctive features of the Bi-Loup 36 is its "deck saloon" layout, which offers nearly 270 degrees of visibility from the cabin. This configuration creates a bright, airy interior that avoids the "basement" feel of traditional deep-cockpit cruisers. The salon is elevated, allowing guests to view the horizon while seated at the dinette, a luxury typically reserved for much larger yachts.
The standard layout usually includes two or three double cabins, with the 365 variant offering further refinements in cabinetry and ergonomics. The master cabin forward typically features a large V-berth with ample hanging locker space, while the aft section houses one or two cabins depending on the original owner's specification. The use of light-colored woods and large plexiglass windows emphasizes the interior volume. A significant sibling to note is the Bi-Loup 109, which utilized a similar hull philosophy but updated the deck mold to provide a more streamlined aesthetic and modernized cockpit ergonomics.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a Bi-Loup 36, the focus must begin with the keel-to-hull joints. Because these boats are specifically designed to be dried out on their keels, the stress points where the keels meet the reinforced hull sections are under unique cyclic loading. While Wrighton heavily reinforced these areas, any signs of "weeping" at the joint or cracking in the interior floor stringers should be scrutinized by a professional surveyor.
The large panoramic windows, while providing excellent light, are a known point of potential leakage. Over decades, the sealant can degrade due to UV exposure and the natural flexing of the deck. Buyers should look for water staining on the interior woodwork beneath the saloon windows. Additionally, like many French production boats of this era, the plumbing and wiring were functional but often lack the sophisticated labeling found in higher-end builds; a thorough audit of the DC panel and through-hull fittings is recommended. Finally, check the rudder bushings; because the twin keels take the load when grounded, the single rudder can sometimes be vulnerable if the boat settles on uneven ground where a rogue rock might strike the blade.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support and social gathering is the Association des Propriétaires de Bi-Loup (APBL). This organization is exceptionally active in France and the UK, providing technical wikis, historical brochures, and annual rallies. They are the most reliable source for finding replacement parts specific to the Wrighton yard, which has undergone various ownership changes over the years.
The Verdict
The Bi-Loup 36 is an intelligent choice for the cruiser who values the freedom of tidal exploration without wanting to sacrifice the interior amenities of a modern deck-saloon yacht.
Pros:
- Tidal Versatility: Can dry out upright, saving on marina fees and allowing access to secluded drying moorings.
- Visibility: The deck-saloon configuration provides an exceptionally bright and panoramic living space.
- VPLP Design: Higher performance threshold than typical twin-keel designs of the same era.
Cons:
- Light Air Drag: The twin-keel wetted surface area can make the boat sluggish in winds under 8 knots.
- Window Maintenance: The large expanses of glazing require diligent monitoring for leaks.
- Market Availability: Primarily found in European waters, making them rare finds in North America.
