Creekmore 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Creekmore 36 is best described as a "momentum boat." Given its relatively heavy displacement and conservative sail area-to-displacement ratio, it requires a decent breeze to find its stride, but once moving, its high inertia allows it to power through chop that would stall lighter contemporary designs. The hull shape features a long keel with a secondary centerboard, a combination that offers excellent directional stability and tracking. With the board down, owners report surprising pointing ability, a trait likely inherited from Raymond Creekmore’s background as an Olympic-class sailor.

The boat’s sea-kindliness is a hallmark of the design. The heavy hull and moderate beam result in a predictable, gentle motion in a seaway, reducing crew fatigue during long passages. Because it was designed for the choppy, shallow waters of the Gulf Stream, it handles short-period waves with minimal pounding. However, the trade-off for this stability is a larger wetted surface area, which can make the boat sluggish in light airs (under 8 knots). Handling under power can be challenging due to the significant prop walk associated with its traditional aperture and long keel, requiring a confident hand in tight marinas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Creekmore 36 is the most variable aspect of the model. Because Raymond Creekmore frequently sold these boats as kits, the internal arrangements range from basic, "industrial" layouts to highly customized, fine-joinery masterpieces. Most versions adhere to a classic offshore layout: a compact galley near the companionway for ventilation, a traditional salon with settee berths, and a V-berth forward.

The structural design often features a massive centerboard trunk that dictates the flow of the cabin, frequently serving as a mounting point for a solid drop-leaf table. Headroom is generally generous for a 36-footer of this vintage, often exceeding 6'2". Owners value the "overbuilt" feel of the interior; the hull-to-deck joints and bulkheads are typically heavily glassed to the hull, creating a rigid, creak-free environment even when the boat is stressed in heavy weather. Sibling models, such as the Creekmore 34 and the larger Creekmore 42, share this "built-for-purpose" aesthetic, with the 36 often considered the "sweet spot" in the range for a cruising couple.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach the Creekmore 36 with a critical eye toward the original builder’s or owner’s finishing work. While the hull itself is often described as "indestructible" due to the thick laminates used in the early fiberglass era, the "kit boat" nature of many hulls means that systems—plumbing, electrical, and engine installations—may not meet modern ABYC standards.

A primary technical area for inspection is the centerboard and its lifting mechanism. Over decades, the pivot pins can wear, and the trunk itself can become a site for marine growth or internal delamination if not maintained. Additionally, like many boats of this era, osmotic blistering can occur, though the thickness of the hull usually makes this a cosmetic rather than structural concern. Deck cores should be thoroughly sounded for soft spots, especially around owner-installed hardware where bedding compound may have failed. Finally, the chainplates—often glassed deep into the structure—require careful inspection for crevice corrosion, a task that may necessitate some invasive surgery due to the "permanent" nature of Creekmore's construction methods.

Community & Resources

While there is no formal, active manufacturer website today, the legacy of Raymond Creekmore is preserved by a dedicated group of enthusiasts. Technical discussions and historical data are often found through the Creekmore Boat Owners groups on various enthusiast platforms. For those researching the historical significance of the builder, the early history of fiberglass boat building in South Florida often highlights the Creekmore yard as a central pillar of the industry.

The Verdict

The Creekmore 36 is a "sailor's boat"—a rugged, no-nonsense cruiser that prioritizes structural integrity and shallow-draft versatility over modern dock appeal. It is an ideal candidate for a buyer looking for a classic blue-water hull with the bones to survive a circumnavigation, provided they are willing to manage the idiosyncrasies of a semi-custom vintage vessel.

Pros:

• Exceptional hull strength and heavy-weather sea-kindliness.
• Shallow draft with the centerboard up, ideal for the Bahamas and coastal cruising.
• Highly customizable interior potential due to many being sold as kits.
• Stable tracking and predictable handling in heavy air.

Cons:

• Variable build quality of interior systems and finish depending on the original owner.
• Sluggish performance in light winds due to high wetted surface.
• Challenging maneuverability in reverse under power.
• Maintenance-intensive centerboard trunk and pivot assembly.