Lippincott 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Lippincott 36 are defined by its moderate displacement and a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which yields a stiff and stable platform. Howard Lippincott Jr. utilized his family’s racing pedigree to ensure the boat remained weatherly; the 36 is frequently described by owners as a "point-and-shoot" vessel that tracks exceptionally well upwind. The hull features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration that provides the responsiveness necessary for tight maneuvers in crowded harbors while maintaining enough momentum to punch through a typical Chesapeake chop—the very waters for which it was designed.

While the specific Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio varies slightly depending on whether the boat is rigged with the standard mast or the optional tall rig, the boat generally falls into the performance-cruising sweet spot. It is light enough to move in sub-10 knot breezes but heavy enough to avoid the "flighty" feel of lighter European production boats of the same era. Anecdotal evidence from regional racing circuits suggests the boat can maintain a competitive PHRF rating, particularly in medium-to-heavy air where its stability becomes a primary asset.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Lippincott 36 reflects the transition of the early 1980s toward more voluminous living spaces without sacrificing the structural integrity of the bulkheads. The layout is traditional yet open, featuring a forward V-berth, a main salon with settee seating that doubles as sea berths, and a well-appointed L-shaped galley situated to starboard of the companionway. Because Lippincott was a smaller yard, the joinery work is often superior to the mass-market builders of the time, utilizing generous amounts of teak and high-grade laminates.

The 36 was the larger sibling to the Lippincott 30, which shared a similar design philosophy but lacked the standing headroom and dedicated aft-quarter accommodations found in the larger vessel. In the 36, the increased beam allowed for a more substantial navigation station and improved ventilation throughout the cabin. Some variations in the 36 exist regarding the keel depth, with a shoal draft version produced to accommodate the shallow bays of the Mid-Atlantic, while the deep fin version was preferred by those in the Northeast and Great Lakes.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Lippincott 36 should approach the vessel with a checklist focused on its 1980s fiberglass construction. While the hulls are robust, specific areas require technical scrutiny:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Lippincott 36 uses a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should use a phenolic hammer or moisture meter to check for delamination around the stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step, as these are common points for water ingress.
• Spade Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder offers excellent performance but places significant stress on the rudder post and bearings. Check for excessive "slop" or play in the steering system while the boat is hauled out.
• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are bolted through the bulkheads; look for signs of "weeping" or rust streaks on the interior wood, which indicates the exterior sealant has failed and moisture is reaching the structural timber.
• Engine Service Access: Most 36s were equipped with Universal or Westerbeke diesel engines. While reliable, the engine box configuration can make reaching the raw water pump or aft mounts a challenge, often leading to deferred maintenance in those specific areas.

Community & Resources

The community surrounding Lippincott boats is deeply rooted in the Riverton Yacht Club and the wider sailing history of the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay. While there is no longer a formal factory presence, the Lippincott family remains respected figures in the maritime world. Technical information and original design intent are often documented through the archives of the Riverton Yacht Club, where the builder’s legacy is celebrated.

The Verdict

The Lippincott 36 is an "insider’s boat"—a well-constructed, handsome cruiser that offers better-than-average performance for those who find modern production boats too light or flimsy.

Pros:

• Superior construction quality and wood joinery compared to mass-market peers.
• Predictable, stiff sailing performance with excellent upwind tracking.
• Designed by a builder with a championship racing pedigree.

Cons:

• Limited production numbers make finding parts or model-specific advice difficult.
• Spade rudder design lacks the protection of a skeg for grounding-prone areas.
• Balsa-cored decks require vigilant maintenance to prevent expensive delamination.