Compis 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Compis 36 is widely regarded by the Scandinavian sailing community as a stiff, fast, and remarkably balanced performer. Utilizing a masthead sloop rig with a high aspect ratio, the boat generates significant power in light to moderate air. Because it was designed just as the IOR influence was beginning to wane in favor of more balanced cruiser-racer shapes, it avoids the extreme "pinched" sterns that made many 1970s boats difficult to handle downwind in heavy seas.

With a displacement of approximately 5,500 kg (roughly 12,125 lbs) and a substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio (often cited near 40%), the Compis 36 feels exceptionally secure in a blow. According to archival reports from Swedish marine publication Båtnytt, the boat tracks exceptionally well upwind, benefiting from a deep fin keel that minimizes leeway. Owners frequently note that the steering remains light even when the boat is pressed, a testament to Bernt Andersson's skill in balancing the center of effort. While not a "surfing" hull by modern standards, its long waterline and clean exits allow it to maintain high average speeds during coastal passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Compis 36 is a masterclass in traditional Scandinavian joinery, utilizing high-quality mahogany that has, in most hulls, aged into a deep, warm hue. The layout is optimized for offshore security, featuring a deep L-shaped galley to port and a proper forward-facing navigation station to starboard. The main salon is characterized by its generous headroom and a central folding table flanked by settees that serve as excellent sea berths.

Accommodation is split between a private V-berth forward and a dedicated aft cabin. Unlike many modern yachts that utilize a wide, open-transom layout, the Compis 36 places the aft cabin behind a bulkhead for superior privacy, though this does necessitate a slightly more confined cockpit. A notable sibling to this model is the Compis 33, which shares many of the 36's aesthetic DNA but lacks the expansive volume and "big boat" feel of the 36-foot version. Later iterations, sometimes referred to in regional circles as the Compis 363, featured minor refinements to the deck layout and interior finishing, though the fundamental hull remained the same.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Compis 36 with a technical eye toward its era-specific construction methods. While the hulls are robustly built with solid fiberglass below the waterline, several "gotchas" are common:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats from the early 1980s, the Compis 36 utilized a sandwich construction (often balsa or foam) for the decks. Check for "springy" sections around the mast base and chainplates, which can indicate water ingress and core delamination.
• Volvo Penta Saildrive: Most units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta diesel engines and saildrives. It is vital to inspect the rubber hull diaphragm; if it is older than seven years, it technically exceeds the manufacturer’s recommended service life.
• Grid Structure: Inspect the fiberglass internal grid (the "matrix") that supports the keel bolts. High-stress grounding can lead to hairline fractures in this grid, which are difficult and expensive to repair.
• Teak Deck Wear: If the vessel is equipped with an original laid-teak deck, it is likely nearing the end of its functional life. Look for proud screws and thinning planks, as a full replacement can cost a significant percentage of the boat's market value.

Community & Resources

The Compis 36 enjoys a loyal following in Northern Europe, particularly in Sweden and Germany. Technical support is primarily found through the Compisförbundet (Compis Association), a dedicated owner group that maintains archives of original sail plans, wiring diagrams, and modification guides. While the manufacturer Compis-Båtar AB is no longer in operation, the shared heritage with other Arvika builders like Comfortbåtar means that many parts—such as toe rails and specific hardware—are often interchangeable or identifiable through the Arvika marine cluster.

The Verdict

The Compis 36 is an "honest" sailboat that offers a level of build quality and sailing pleasure rarely found in modern production yachts of similar size. It is an ideal choice for a couple or small family looking for a blue-water capable cruiser that can still hold its own in a local club race.

Pros:

• Excellent upwind performance and heavy-weather stability.
• Beautiful, high-quality mahogany interior that feels substantial and cozy.
• Deep cockpit and secure deck layout for offshore passage-making.

Cons:

• Aging engine and saildrive units require diligent maintenance.
• The interior may feel "dark" compared to modern yachts with large hull windows.
• Limited availability outside of the Baltic and North Sea regions.