C&C 36 R Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The C&C 36 R is a stiff, weatherly boat that rewards an active crew. By increasing the mast height by approximately three feet over the standard 36-2 and deepening the draft to a formidable 7.3 feet, Rob Ball created a vessel with a much higher sail area-to-displacement ratio. On the water, this translates to a boat that powers through a chop where lighter displacement boats might stall. Its handling is characterized by exceptional tracking and a "locked-in" feel when close-hauled, a trait attributed to the high-aspect-ratio keel and balanced rudder.

Unlike the cruising version, which was often equipped with a furling genoa and a shorter stick, the 36 R was built for a high-tension rod rigging setup and a large overlapping headsail. In light air, the 36 R is notably more responsive than the standard version, shedding the sluggishness often associated with 1980s racer-cruisers in sub-8-knot breezes. Owners often report that the boat "finds its groove" quickly, though the deeper draft requires more tactical awareness in thin-water cruising grounds like the Chesapeake or the Bahamas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the 36 R is a dedicated racer, C&C did not entirely abandon the interior, though they did subject it to a "diet." The layout remains largely the same as the standard 36-2, featuring a V-berth forward, a central salon with a folding table, and a dedicated aft cabin. However, to save weight, the 36 R replaced much of the heavy teak cabinetry and solid wood bulkheads found in the cruising variant with lighter-weight composites or thinner veneers.

The sibling model, the standard C&C 36-2, offers a much plusher environment with extensive woodwork and additional storage lockers that are absent in the R-version. For the racer, this lack of "clutter" provides better access to the hull for inspections and easier sail storage during transit. Despite the weight savings, the 36 R still provides a full galley and a functional head with a shower, maintaining enough civility for occasional weekend cruising. Headroom remains generous at approximately 6'2", a luxury for a boat with such aggressive performance profiles.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the C&C 36 R should approach the hull and rig with a "performance-first" mindset. The following areas are high-signal points for inspection:

• Balsa Core Integrity: Like most C&C models of this era, the 36 R features a balsa-cored hull and deck. Moisture intrusion around deck hardware, stanchions, and the chainplates is a common issue. On the R-version, which likely saw higher rig tensions and aggressive winch use, these areas are under higher stress.
• Keel Smile and Attachment: Given the 36 R’s deep 7.3-foot keel, the leverage exerted on the keel stump during a grounding is significant. Inspectors should look for the "C&C Smile" (a crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint) and check for any compression or crazing in the structural floors.
• Rod Rigging Lifespan: Most 36 Rs were delivered with Navtec rod rigging. Unlike wire rigging, rod rigging can suffer from hidden fatigue and "cold heading" failures. If the rigging is original or older than 15 years, a full replacement is a necessary budget item.
• Mast Step Corrosion: The aluminum mast sits on a steel or aluminum step that can suffer from galvanic corrosion if bilge water has been allowed to sit for extended periods.

Community & Resources

The C&C community is one of the most robust in North America, centered largely around the Great Lakes and the Northeast. The C&C Photo Album serves as the primary technical repository for the 36 R, offering original brochures, sail plans, and owner-submitted data that differentiates the R-version from the cruising model. Additionally, the C&C Owners Association maintains a presence in various regional chapters, often organizing one-design starts in major regattas.

The Verdict

The C&C 36 R is an uncompromising example of late-1980s performance engineering. It is a boat for the sailor who prioritizes VMG (Velocity Made Good) and helm feedback over teak joinery and heavy appliances. While it requires more maintenance—particularly regarding its deep keel and rod rigging—it offers a level of sophistication and speed that few modern "production" cruisers can match at this price point.

Pros:

• Exceptional Pointing Ability: The deep keel and tall rig allow it to out-climb most contemporaries.
• Build Quality: C&C’s use of high-end resins and balsa-coring resulted in a very stiff, light hull for its time.
• Dual-Purpose: Despite the "R" designation, it remains a capable weekend cruiser with a functional aft cabin.

Cons:

• Draft Limitations: The 7.3-foot draft significantly limits anchorage options in shallower cruising areas.
• Maintenance Intensive: High-performance hardware (rod rigging, deep keel) requires more frequent and expensive professional oversight.
• Weight Sensitivity: The performance gains of the 36 R are quickly negated if a cruising owner adds too much heavy gear or oversized battery banks.