Design and Construction
The Rustler 36 has a solid, hand-laid GRP hull and deck built to Lloyds Register specifications, using Lloyds-approved materials. Longitudinal stringers and transverse frames reinforce the hull. The plywood-cored, non-slip deck is bonded to the hull on a flange and secured with stainless-steel bolts.
The hull is foam insulated, while the interior can be panelled in teak. Besides looking attractive, this finish helps retain heat and improves soundproofing. Skilled craftspeople carried out the high-quality teak joinery throughout.
Each boat was built to order and customized to its owner’s preferences rather than produced on a mass-production line. As a result, most examples are effectively custom boats, and no two interior fit-outs are quite alike.
Rig, Performance, and Handling
The rugged, conservatively proportioned Seldén masthead rig has straight spreaders and both forward and aft lowers. The keel-stepped, anodized-aluminum mast carries internal halyards, while the stainless-steel wire standing rigging terminates in swaged fittings.
A fully battened mainsail with lazyjacks is standard, and in-mast furling was available as an option. The cutter bowsprit extends the foredeck and supports a staysail.
Writing in Boat Review, test sailors found the Rustler 36 a delight to sail in all conditions except possibly in very light air. Her short waterline means she’s no racer, but the rig is so well balanced that weather helm is rare. Sailing to windward in steep seas, her weight and momentum help carry her forward while keeping the crew safe and dry in the cockpit.
On passage, she cruises at roughly 6 knots in winds from 10 to 28 knots. The first reef is usually required at around 20 knots apparent. Close-hauled in 20 knots of wind and average seas, she still manages 3 to 4.5 knots. On a beam reach with the large genoa fully unfurled, she’ll move comfortably at closer to 7.5 knots.
Off the wind, however, the large wetted surface created by the long keel and ample bilge makes her slower than a more modern cruiser with a shallow bottom, deep fin, and spade rudder.
Cockpit and Deck
The cockpit provides a secure working space. Its narrow well gives the crew somewhere to brace their feet, while the high, angled coamings add comfort and safety. Teak handholds make the descent below easier, and handrails run from the cockpit to the foredeck.
A high bridgedeck helps protect the companionway from flooding. The spacious cockpit accommodates four people comfortably and includes two large lockers and a sprayhood.
At the bow, the ground tackle includes a sturdy twin bow roller, sizeable cleats, and an electric windlass. The windlass feeds chain through a hawse pipe into a locker below, while a large anchor locker accommodates a CQR, chain, and windlass.
Accommodation
The Rustler 36 provides comfortable living space for up to six people. The forward cabin has a V-berth, while the saloon’s two settees convert into berths around a folding table. At 6ft 6in long, these cozy settees also make ideal sea berths. An aft cabin contains a double berth.
In the U-shaped galley, the cook can reach the counter, stove top, double sink, and lockers while safely strapped in. The accommodation also includes a navigation station and a head with a marine toilet, sink, and shower. Headroom is about 6 feet throughout.
Both owner’s and charter versions were available from new. The owner’s version had a larger aft cabin, while the charter version provided more berths.
Steering and Custom Options
Tiller steering is standard, although wheel steering is a popular option. The deep, transom-hung rudder suits the long-keel hull and its steering arrangement.
The custom-build approach also extended to the interior panelling and layout. Individual boats can therefore differ considerably in their interior fit-outs.
The Verdict
The Rustler 36 is a thoughtful, heavily built ocean cruiser for sailors who value seakeeping, custom craftsmanship, and a balanced rig more than outright speed. She’s slow off the wind compared with modern fin-keel cruisers and sluggish in the lightest air. In return, she carries her momentum through steep seas, keeps her crew dry, and crosses oceans on her own terms.
Pros
- Solid, Lloyds-specification, hand-laid GRP hull with foam insulation and structural reinforcement
- Well-balanced masthead rig, with weather helm a rarity and a straightforward reefing routine
- Built to owners’ specifications, with high-quality teak joinery and soundproofing panelling
- High bridgedeck and a cockpit designed to provide secure bracing and protection against flooding
Cons
- Large wetted surface and long keel make her slower off the wind than modern cruisers
- Short waterline and conservative rig limit performance in very light air
- Not mass-produced; spares and familiarization vary with each boat’s individual fit-out
