Islander Freeport 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Freeport 36 behaves exactly as its displacement and underbody suggest: it is a stable, predictable, and somewhat "stately" performer. With a displacement of approximately 17,000 pounds and a modified fin keel with a protected skeg-hung rudder, the boat lacks the nimbleness of the Islander 36 but excels in directional stability. According to technical reflections from the designer Robert Perry, the boat was intended to be a "character boat" with modern performance underwater, though it carries a relatively conservative sail area-to-displacement ratio.

In light air, the F-36 can feel sluggish due to its significant wetted surface area and high windage. However, once the breeze picks up beyond 12 knots, the hull settles into a groove. It tracks exceptionally well, a trait often praised by solo sailors and long-distance cruisers who frequent the Islander 36 Association (which provides a technical home for Freeport owners as well). The boat’s motion in a seaway is dampened by its weight, making it a "kind" vessel for those prone to seasickness, though its high freeboard can lead to significant leeway when docking in crosswinds.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Freeport 36 is its primary selling point and the reason it is often categorized as a "dockominium." The most striking feature is the large, wraparound windows in the coachroof, which flood the salon with natural light—a rarity for 1970s-era sailboats. The boat was offered in multiple configurations, most notably "Plan A" and "Plan B."

Plan B is the more iconic and sought-after layout for couples. It features a dedicated "owner's stateroom" forward with a large pullman berth to port and a vanity to starboard, effectively separating the sleeping quarters from the main living area. The salon utilizes the full 12-foot beam, offering a massive U-shaped dinette. In contrast, Plan A followed a more traditional layout with a V-berth and a settee. The use of teak joinery and high-quality laminates was standard, though many owners have since updated these interiors to brighten the aesthetic. The sibling model, the Freeport 41, utilized a similar design language on a larger ketch-rigged platform, but the 36 remains the more manageable choice for coastal couples.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Freeport 36 has maintained a presence in nautical literature and design discussions primarily through its association with Robert Perry. Perry often cites the Freeport series in his books, such as Sailing Designs, as an example of balancing traditional "shippy" aesthetics—like the trailboards and clipper-esque bow—with a modern cruising underbody. While it hasn't achieved the "cult" status of the Islander 36 in the racing world, it is frequently featured in cruising blogs and "Best Liveaboard Under 40 Feet" lists in publications like Good Old Boat.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an F-36 with a focus on its age-related structural integrity. Three primary areas require rigorous inspection:

1. Window Seals: The large iconic windows are notorious for leaking. Because they are curved and set into the fiberglass, resealing them is a labor-intensive task. Persistent leaks often lead to "black rot" in the teak plywood bulkheads and cabinetry below.
2. Fuel Tanks: Most Freeport 36s were built with iron or aluminum fuel tanks located deep in the bilge. Over four decades, moisture can cause bottom-up corrosion. Replacing these tanks often requires significant "surgical" removal of cabin sole components.
3. Deck Delamination: Like many boats of the era, the Freeport 36 uses a balsa-cored deck. Areas around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the windlass are common sites for water ingress and core rot.
4. Chainplates: The original stainless steel chainplates are prone to crevice corrosion where they pass through the deck. Given the boat's age, a "pull and inspect" or total replacement is highly recommended for any offshore work.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and community support is the Islander 36 Association. While centered on the Gurney design, the association hosts a wealth of cross-compatible information regarding Islander’s construction techniques, parts sourcing, and regional meetups on the West Coast, where the majority of these boats reside.

The Verdict

The Islander Freeport 36 is an unapologetic cruising vessel that trades raw speed for an expansive, light-filled living experience. It is an ideal platform for a coastal liveaboard or a couple cruising the Great Loop or the Bahamas.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and natural light.
• Stable, forgiving motion in heavy seas.
• Robert Perry design pedigree ensures a seaworthy underbody.
• Strong owner community and parts availability on the West Coast.

Cons:

• Large windows are prone to leaks and can be difficult to repair.
• High windage makes low-speed maneuvering challenging.
• Original metal fuel tanks are often at the end of their lifespan.
• Not a light-air performer; requires significant breeze to find its legs.