MacGregor 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The MacGregor 36 is a pure performance machine that prioritizes speed over almost all other design considerations. With a displacement of only 5,500 pounds—extraordinarily light for a 36-foot multihull—and a generous sail plan, the boat exhibits a high power-to-weight ratio. Under optimal conditions, the MacGregor 36 is capable of speeds exceeding 20 knots, a performance threshold typically reserved for dedicated racing machines or much more expensive modern performance cats.

The handling characteristics are defined by the boat's narrow hulls and deep daggerboards. With the boards down, the 36 tracks exceptionally well and points significantly higher than the heavy-displacement cruisers of its era. However, the vessel’s lightweight and narrow hull beam make it sensitive to weight distribution and prone to "hobby-horsing" in a chop. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home in flat water and high winds, where it can plane effectively. Because it lacks the massive buoyancy in the bows found in modern "fat" catamarans, it requires an attentive hand on the mainsheet in heavy air to avoid the risk of pitch-poling, a common trait among performance multihulls of this vintage.

Interior Comfort & Variations

In keeping with the ULDB philosophy, the interior of the MacGregor 36 is utilitarian and Spartan. The boat lacks a bridgedeck cabin; instead, the living quarters are located entirely within the two narrow hulls. This configuration keeps the center of gravity low and windage to a minimum but results in a "tunnel-like" living experience.

Each hull typically contains two single berths (one forward and one aft), providing sleeping accommodations for four adults. The headroom is limited, and the maximum width inside the hulls is approximately three to four feet, which can feel claustrophobic compared to contemporary cruising catamarans. Typically, one hull houses a compact galley and a small dinette, while the opposite hull contains a navigation station and a private head compartment. The finish is largely raw fiberglass with basic teak trim, designed for easy maintenance rather than luxury. While there were few official factory variations, many owners have customized the open bridgedeck with aftermarket soft-top biminis or hard enclosures to provide better protection from the elements during passage-making.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a MacGregor 36 must approach the vessel with a "performance-first" mindset, acknowledging that the lightness required for its speed can lead to structural fatigue over decades of use.

1. Crossbeam Attachment Points: The most critical area for inspection is the connection where the aluminum crossbeams (akus) bolt to the fiberglass hulls. Given the boat's age, the bolt holes can become elongated or the surrounding laminate can suffer from stress cracking due to the immense torsional loads of catamaran sailing.
2. Delamination and Core Rot: To save weight, the MacGregor 36 used cored construction in many areas. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a percussion "tap" test on the decks and hull sides to check for delamination or soft spots, particularly around stanchion bases and cleats.
3. Daggerboard Trunks: The daggerboard trunks are subject to high lateral loads and occasional groundings. Inspect the trunks for vertical cracks or leaks where they integrate with the hull sole.
4. Rigging Loads: Because the boat is capable of high speeds and high righting moments, the standing rigging and chainplates are under significant stress. Ensure the chainplates are not pulling away from the bulkheads and that the wire rigging is recently replaced.
5. Trailer Hardware: Since the boat's "selling point" was its trailerability, many units have spent years on custom trailers. The specialized hardware used to collapse the beam for transport should be inspected for corrosion or seized components.

Community & Resources

The MacGregor 36 enjoys a dedicated following among sailors who prioritize "miles per hour per dollar." Technical support and historical documentation are primarily preserved through the MacGregor Sailors forum and the MacGregor Owners Association, which serve as the primary repositories for DIY modifications and tuning guides. While the manufacturer no longer supports the model, the simplicity of its rig and hull construction means that most parts can be serviced or replaced using off-the-shelf marine hardware.

The Verdict

The MacGregor 36 is a "niche within a niche"—a vintage performance catamaran that offers blistering speed and unique trailerability at a fraction of the cost of a modern performance multihull. It is not a liveaboard cruiser in the traditional sense, but for the sailor who values the thrill of the chase and the ability to explore distant coastlines without a permanent slip, it remains an iconic piece of maritime engineering.

Pros:

• Exceptional speed-to-price ratio; capable of 20+ knots.
• Unique demountable design allows for overland transport and winter storage at home.
• Shallow draft (approx. 18 inches with boards up) allows for "beachable" exploration.
• Simple, accessible systems ideal for the DIY-oriented owner.

Cons:

• Spartan interior with limited headroom and very narrow living spaces.
• Requires a high level of sailing skill and attention in heavy weather.
• Absence of a bridgedeck cabin limits social space and protection from spray.
• Structural integrity of crossbeam connections requires frequent monitoring.