CS 36 Merlin Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The CS 36 Merlin is characterized by a significant departure from the "sea-kindly but heavy" philosophy of early 70s cruisers. Designed with a moderate displacement-to-length ratio, the Merlin is notably faster and more responsive than its predecessor. According to an editorial review by Canadian Yachting, the boat features a much longer waterline and a finer entry, which aids in upwind performance and minimizes hobby-horsing in a chop.

Under sail, the Merlin is known for being "stiff," thanks to a high ballast-to-displacement ratio and a modern keel design. While the "Traditional" CS 36 utilized a deep, full-bodied fin, the Merlin’s keel and spade rudder are more efficient, providing a lighter touch on the helm. The boat’s Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 17.5 indicates a vessel that is lively in light air but remains manageable when the breeze freshens. Owners often note that the boat tracks exceptionally well off the wind due to the wide aft sections, though the increased beam requires the boat to be sailed relatively flat to avoid excessive weather helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the CS 36 Merlin was a revelation for its time, utilizing a "wide-body" design that feels significantly larger than a standard 36-foot yacht. By moving the engine forward and placing it under the galley/dinette area, Castro was able to open up the stern. This allowed for a true aft-cabin layout with a large double berth tucked under the cockpit sole—a feature that was a major selling point compared to the pilot berths or quarter berths of earlier models.

The main salon features 6'4" of headroom and an abundance of light provided by the wrap-around deckhouse windows. The cabinetry is typically finished in high-quality teak or ash, maintaining the Canadian Sailcraft reputation for superior joinery. The galley is "U-shaped" and positioned to port, optimized for use at sea, while the forward V-berth offers a secondary private sleeping area. Because the Merlin shared the "Tony Castro" design DNA with its siblings—the CS 30, CS 34, and the larger CS 40—the interior aesthetic is consistent across the late-80s fleet, focusing on ergonomic flow and social space.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a CS 36 Merlin should focus on a few specific technical areas common to the build and the era:

• Bofor Portlights: The Merlin used aluminum-framed Bofor ports which are notorious for pitting and leaking over time. Replacing the gaskets is a common maintenance task, but severe corrosion may require complete replacement with modern equivalents.
• Grid and Liner Bonding: CS Yachts utilized a sophisticated internal fiberglass grid system to provide structural rigidity. While robust, a survey should include a visual inspection of the bond between the hull and the grid, especially in the bilge area near the keel bolts, to ensure there are no signs of separation from a hard grounding.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Like many production boats of the 1980s, the Merlin uses a balsa-cored deck. While CS was generally excellent at sealing penetrations, any aftermarket hardware installed by previous owners should be checked for moisture intrusion or soft spots around the footings.
• Rudder Moisture: The spade rudder is a hollow fiberglass shell filled with foam. Over decades, water can seep into the foam via the rudder stock entrance. This is often detected during a winter haul-out by "weeping" from the bottom of the rudder.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Merlin are supported by a dedicated and highly technical community. The CS Owners Association serves as the primary repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and a registry of hull numbers. The association is particularly active in the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest regions, where the majority of the fleet remains in service.

The Verdict

The CS 36 Merlin is a premier example of the late-80s performance cruiser, offering a sophisticated balance of speed and "apres-sail" comfort. It is an ideal vessel for a family or couple looking for a coastal cruiser that can still hold its own in a club race.

Pros:

• Superior Interior Volume: The aft-cabin layout is exceptional for a 36-foot boat of this vintage.
• Build Quality: Maintains the high construction standards of the Canadian Sailcraft brand.
• Balanced Performance: Faster and more modern than the "Traditional" CS 36 without sacrificing stability.

Cons:

• Engine Access: While the midship engine placement helps weight distribution, access for certain maintenance tasks can be tighter than traditional engine rooms.
• Deck Core Vulnerability: Like all balsa-cored boats, it requires vigilant maintenance of deck seals.
• Portlight Corrosion: Original Bofor windows often require refurbishment or replacement.