Excalibur 36 Information, Review, Specs

Construction was largely handled by Southern Ocean Shipyard, utilizing hulls molded by the Tyler Boat Company, a partnership that resulted in some of the most robust laminate schedules of the era. The boat’s pedigree is cemented by its victory in the RORC Class II championship in 1963 and 1965, proving that the Van de Stadt Design philosophy of reducing wetted surface area did not come at the expense of structural integrity. Today, the Excalibur 36 is cherished by traditionalists who prioritize seaworthiness and "ship-shape" aesthetics over the high-volume interiors of modern production cruisers.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Excalibur 36 is widely regarded as a "sailor's boat," characterized by its exceptional upwind ability and steady motion in a seaway. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of the performance spectrum and a high ballast ratio (often exceeding 45%), the boat is remarkably stiff. It carries its sail area well into freshening breezes before a reef is required. The deep fin keel and high-aspect spade rudder provide a level of responsiveness that was revolutionary for the early 1960s.

In a Yachting Monthly retrospective, the model was praised for its ability to slice through a short chop without the jarring slamming common in modern, flatter-bottomed designs. However, the narrow beam and fine ends that contribute to its "sea-kindliness" also mean the boat can be sensitive to weight distribution and can become heavy on the helm if over-canvassed on a reach. When properly trimmed, the Excalibur 36 tracks with remarkable precision, making it a favorite for single-handed offshore passages where a reliable "groove" is essential.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Excalibur 36 offers a safe and secure environment below deck, it reflects the design priorities of its era, emphasizing functionality over open-plan lounging. The interior is characterized by a narrow beam of approximately 10 feet, which results in a cozy, linear layout. Most hulls feature a traditional arrangement: a V-berth forward, a compact head and hanging locker, and a main saloon with two settee berths. Because of the boat's racing heritage, many units were fitted with pilot berths above the settees to accommodate a full racing crew.

The joinery, often executed in rich teak or mahogany by Southern Ocean Shipyard, reflects the high craftsmanship standards of the Poole-based yard. Headroom is adequate for the average sailor but may feel restrictive for those over six feet. Variations exist primarily in the galley and navigation station layouts; some owners have modified the original "bridge deck" galley to create more counter space for modern cruising. Because Tyler Boat Company sold several hulls for "home completion," the interior finish quality can vary significantly between individual vessels, ranging from professional-grade cabinetry to more utilitarian, amateur-fitted plywood.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Excalibur 36’s cultural footprint is deeply tied to the "Golden Age" of British offshore racing. It gained international fame when it won the RORC Class II championship multiple times in the 1960s, competing against the best designs of the era. The boat’s success helped validate E.G. van de Stadt’s theories on split lateral planes (fin and spade configurations), which influenced a generation of naval architects. While not a frequent star of modern YouTube sailing channels, the model remains a fixture in classic yachting literature and regional racing histories in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a vessel of this vintage requires a discerning eye for structural aging. While Southern Ocean Shipyard was known for over-building their hulls, several "gotchas" have emerged over the decades:

• Osmotic Blistering: Early GRP resins were prone to osmosis. While many Excaliburs have undergone epoxy treatments, any prospective buyer should inspect the hull for signs of moisture retention or "pocking" in the gelcoat.
• Chainplate Integrity: The stainless steel chainplates are often glassed into the hull structure or bolted through high-stress areas. Corrosion at the deck level can lead to hidden "crevice corrosion" where the plates pass through the laminate.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: As one of the early spade rudder designs, the rudder tube and its internal bearings are high-stress points. Movement or "clunking" in the helm often indicates the need for a bearing replacement or reinforcement of the rudder post tube.
• Deck Delamination: Although many decks were solid GRP, some used a balsa or foam core in specific areas for weight saving. Soft spots around stanchion bases or the mast step should be investigated with a moisture meter.
• Engine Repowering: Many original units were fitted with underpowered or heavy Perkins or Bukh diesels. Check for modern repowering (e.g., Yanmar or Beta Marine), as the engine space is famously tight and difficult to work in.

Community & Resources

The Excalibur 36 benefits from a dedicated following, particularly in Northern Europe. The most prominent resource for technical data and historical records is the Excalibur 36 Class Association, which maintains a register of known hulls and provides a platform for owners to share maintenance tips. Additionally, because of the boat’s Dutch design heritage, the Van de Stadt Design archives remain a vital source for original sail plans and technical drawings.

The Verdict

The Excalibur 36 is a quintessential "classic plastic" cruiser that offers a level of sailing pedigree and seaworthiness rarely found in modern boats of the same length. It is a vessel for the purist who values the journey as much as the destination.

• Pros:
  • Exceptional upwind performance and heavy-weather stability.
  • Over-built GRP hull provides significant structural longevity.
  • Elegant, timeless lines that stand out in a sea of modern "caravan" yachts.
• Cons:
  • Cramped interior volume compared to contemporary 36-footers.
  • Narrow beam leads to a "tender" initial heel before the ballast takes over.
  • Maintenance requirements associated with 50+ year-old systems and rigging.