Design and Construction
The Cal 36 is a fiberglass monohull sailboat designed by C. William Lapworth, built originally by Jensen Marine (USA). The performance-oriented design blends racing capabilities with cruising comfort, with the 10-foot 4-inch beam giving volume that lets the racing hull serve as a cruiser.
History and Variants
Production of the Cal 36 started in 1966 and continued from 1966 onward. The shallow-draft Cal Cruising 36 variant was produced between 1968 and 1970. The Cal brand ceased production in 1989, but the fleet remains active in racing and cruising.
Rig and Handling
The masthead sloop rig carries an I of 42 ft, J of 14.5 ft, P of 36.5 ft, and E of 16.25 ft. Paired with 11,200 lb displacement and 5-foot 7-inch draft, the known performance-oriented design explains the racing-cruising blend borne out by the active fleet.
Accommodations and Intended Use
The cruising comfort in the concept lets a 1960s racer-cruiser live aboard, and the Cal 36 was a popular choice for coastal and moderate blue water sailing, a role the surviving fleet still fills.
The Verdict
The Cal 36 is a Lapworth fiberglass sloop delivering a fast hull with cruising comfort, built from 1966 onward with a 1968–1970 shallow-draft sister.
Pros
- Performance-oriented Lapworth design blending racing and cruising
- Active fleet still racing and cruising after 1989 brand closure
- Shallow-draft Cal Cruising 36 variant for draft-limited waters
Cons
- No later-generation Cal replacement after 1989
- Deep-draft hull draws 5 feet 7 inches
