Crowther Buccaneer 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Buccaneer 36 are defined by its light displacement and narrow, easily driven hulls. Unlike modern cruising catamarans that prioritize interior volume, the Buccaneer 36 utilizes a sharp, "V" shaped main hull that slices through chop with minimal slamming. In his design philosophy, Lock Crowther focused on reducing wetted surface area, which allows the boat to excel in light air. When the breeze freshens, the boat's high-aspect daggerboard provides exceptional lift, allowing it to point higher than many multihulls of its generation.

Owner reports and historical racing data suggest that the Buccaneer 36 is capable of sustained speeds in the mid-teens, with the ability to touch 20 knots under the right conditions. The boat’s handling is often described as "dinghy-like" in its responsiveness, though it requires an active hand on the mainsheet in gusty conditions due to its relatively narrow beam compared to modern "square" trimarans. The tracking is generally excellent, provided the daggerboard is adjusted correctly for the point of sail. Because the amas (floats) provide significant buoyancy, the boat remains remarkably level, reducing fatigue for the crew during long passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Buccaneer 36 is confined to the central main hull, as the amas are sealed for buoyancy and storage. While the 36-foot length suggests a large interior, the reality is a cozy, "ship-shape" environment necessitated by the narrow hull beam. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, a central saloon with settee berths, and a compact galley and navigation station located aft near the companionway. Headroom is generally sufficient in the center of the cabin, though it tapers quickly as you move toward the bow.

Construction variations significantly impact the interior feel. Professional builds often featured high-quality timber joinery that gives the boat a classic "nautical" atmosphere, while amateur-built versions vary from utilitarian to highly customized. The sibling Buccaneer 33 and 40 models offer slightly more beam and, in the case of the 40, significantly more bridge-deck clearance, but the 36 is often cited as the "sweet spot" for those seeking a balance between manageable size and true offshore capability.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Buccaneer 36 holds a storied place in multihull history, often mentioned in the same breath as the legendary voyages of the 1970s. Lock Crowther's designs were famously used in pioneering ocean races like the OSTAR (Observer Single-handed Trans-Atlantic Race). While specific YouTube "vlog" voyages of the 36 are less common than more modern production boats, the model remains a staple in the archives of Cruising World when discussing the history and development of performance multihulls.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Because many Buccaneer 36s were built from plans by private owners, the primary concern for any prospective buyer is the quality of the original construction and the current state of the core materials.

• Plywood and Core Rot: Most Buccaneers were built using the "West System" or similar epoxy-over-plywood methods. Inspection must focus on the "chainplate" areas and the wing-to-hull joints where water can ingress and rot the timber core.
• Daggerboard Trunk: The trunk is a high-stress area. Inspect for stress cracks or evidence of grounding damage, which can lead to leaks that are difficult to access.
• Wing Beam Integrity: The beams (akas) connecting the floats to the main hull are the structural heart of the boat. Any signs of delamination or "soft spots" on the beams are critical red flags.
• Rudder Bearings: The rudder on the 36 is under significant load at high speeds. Check for excessive play in the bearings and signs of corrosion in the gudgeons and pintles.

Community & Resources

The legacy of Lock Crowther is maintained by a dedicated community of multihull enthusiasts. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer support system, the Multihull Yacht Club of Queensland (MYCQ) and various Crowther-specific social media groups serve as the primary repositories for technical plans and restoration advice. These communities are vital for owners looking to source original sail plans or structural specifications.

The Verdict

The Crowther Buccaneer 36 is a "sailor's boat"—a classic trimaran that prioritizes the joy of movement over the comforts of a floating apartment. It is an ideal choice for the experienced mariner who values speed, shallow draft, and the historical pedigree of a world-class designer.

Pros

• Exceptional light-air performance and high top-end speeds.
• Very shallow draft with the daggerboard up, allowing for "thin water" cruising.
• Proven offshore pedigree with a comfortable, level-sailing motion.
• Relatively affordable entry point into the world of performance trimarans.

Cons

• Interior volume is significantly less than catamarans of similar length.
• Requires a high level of maintenance to ensure the plywood/epoxy hull remains watertight.
• Amateur build quality can vary wildly between individual boats on the market.
• The narrow main hull makes the interior feel cramped for long-term live-aboard use.