Clearwater 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Clearwater 36 is characterized by its nimble, responsive handling and a high-aspect fractional rig that prioritizes upwind efficiency. Because of its lightweight construction—a result of the SCRIMP infusion process—the boat possesses a low displacement-to-length ratio that allows it to accelerate quickly in puffs. According to technical insights regarding Holby's construction methods in Professional BoatBuilder, the use of resin infusion minimized the presence of "dead weight" in the form of excess resin, resulting in a more structurally sound and performance-capable hull.

On the water, the Clearwater 36 is known for its "dinghy-like" responsiveness despite its cruiser-level displacement. The deep-fin keel and balanced spade rudder provide excellent tracking and a tight turning radius. Sailors often note that the boat feels "stiff" and stands up well to its canvas in a breeze, a direct benefit of the low-center-of-gravity ballast enabled by the weight savings in the deck and topsides. The cockpit layout is designed for active trimming, with primary winches easily accessible to the helm, making it a viable candidate for shorthanded performance cruising or club racing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Clearwater 36 reflects the high-standard craftsmanship of the Rhode Island boatbuilding tradition. Unlike many high-performance boats of the era that featured "stripped-out" interiors to save weight, Holby Marine utilized fine hardwoods and intelligent joinery to create a warm, traditional atmosphere. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, a central salon with twin settees and a drop-leaf table, and a functional L-shaped galley.

A primary sibling to the Clearwater 36 is the original Clearwater 35. While the 36 shares the same basic hull lines, it often featured updated deck hardware, a more refined rudder design, and variations in the cabin trunk to increase interior headroom. The use of the SCRIMP process allowed Holby to maintain a high level of interior finish—including teak and holly soles and handcrafted cabinetry—without compromising the boat's performance targets. Variations in the model often depended on the original owner’s preference, as Holby Marine operated as a semi-custom builder, with some hulls featuring a more minimalist "racing" interior while others were outfitted for extended coastal cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Clearwater 36 should focus their inspections on the unique composite nature of the vessel and the specifics of its high-performance rig.

• SCRIMP Voids: While SCRIMP is generally superior to hand-layup, early infused boats can occasionally exhibit small dry spots or voids if the infusion path was obstructed. A professional percussion test or thermal imaging of the hull is recommended.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Clearwater 36 utilizes a balsa or foam core in the deck. While the infusion process seals the core better than traditional methods, hardware that was added post-factory must be checked for proper bedding to ensure moisture hasn't migrated into the core.
• Rudder Bearings: Given the boat’s performance orientation, the spade rudder is subject to significant loads. Buyers should check for play in the rudder stock and the condition of the upper and lower bearings.
• Keel Attachment: The high-aspect fin keel exerts considerable leverage on the hull grid. Inspect the bilge for any "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint or signs of stress cracking in the floor timbers.

Community & Resources

While there is no singular dedicated "Clearwater" association, owners often find technical support and community through broader Holby Marine circles. The Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol, Rhode Island, maintains historical context for the site where Holby Marine began its operations, and the designer Craig Walters remains a recognized figure in the performance-cruising community. Technical discussions regarding the boat’s unique construction can often be found through the SCRIMP technology archives at Seemann Composites.

The Verdict

The Clearwater 36 is a "sailor’s sailboat" that offers a rare combination of New England craftsmanship and high-tech composite engineering. It is ideally suited for the owner who refuses to choose between the beauty of a traditional interior and the thrill of a modern, fast-displacement hull.

Pros:

• Advanced SCRIMP construction provides a light, stiff, and durable hull.
• Excellent light-air performance and upwind pointing ability.
• High-quality interior joinery consistent with Rhode Island’s premium boatbuilding reputation.

Cons:

• Relatively small production run makes finding parts or sistership advice more difficult.
• Performance-oriented deep draft may limit access to some shallow cruising grounds.
• Requires active sail trimming to manage the high-aspect rig in heavy air.