Wrighton 36 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Wrighton 36 is defined by its twin-keel configuration, a design choice that prioritizes a shallow draft (approximately 1.25 meters) and the ability to dry out upright on its own keels. According to technical notes from Vincent Lebailly Yacht Design, the naval architecture focuses on a high righting moment and a hull shape that provides significant initial stability. While twin keels traditionally carry a slight penalty in wetted surface area compared to deep fin keels, the Wrighton 36 mitigates this with a modern sail plan and a hull that maintains its tracking even in choppy coastal waters.

On the water, the boat is described as a "reassuring" cruiser. The twin rudders provide exceptional grip, particularly when the boat is heeled, preventing the "round-up" tendency found in single-rudder boats with wide beams. While it is not a light-wind racer—given its robust displacement-to-length ratio—it excels in a breeze, where its stiff nature allows it to carry full sail longer than more tender contemporary designs. Handling is optimized for shorthanded sailing, with lines led aft to a cockpit that balances protection for the crew with easy access to the winches.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Wrighton 36 is a significant departure from the older Bi-Loup 109, focusing on light, ergonomics, and high-quality finishes. The shipyard’s ambition to reach a "Hallberg-Rassy" level of quality is most evident in the cabinetry and the integration of the panoramic coachroof. This signature "deck saloon" style provides nearly 360-degree visibility from the galley and navigation station, a rare feature on a 36-foot vessel.

The standard layout typically features two or three cabins. In the owner’s version, the forward cabin is notably spacious, benefiting from the hull's generous beam carried forward. The salon is offset to maximize flow, and the use of light woods and large portlights creates an airy atmosphere. Sibling variations include the original Bi-Loup 109, which utilized the same hull but featured a more utilitarian, traditional French interior and a different deck molding with less emphasized window lines. The 36’s redesign by Vincent Lebailly specifically improved the "ergonomics of the movement" on board, widening the side decks and streamlining the companionway.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Wrighton 36 made a significant impact in the French nautical press during its relaunch. It was featured prominently in editorial coverage by Bateaux.com and Voiles et Voiliers during the 2021 boat show season, where it was hailed as the "rebirth of the Bi-Loup." The model is frequently cited in French cruising media as the premier example of a modern, large-scale twin-keel production yacht, filling a specific niche for sailors in Brittany and the Charente-Maritime who require grounding capabilities without opting for a complex lifting-keel mechanism.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Because the Wrighton 36 is a newer model (and an evolution of the 109), buyers should focus on the quality of the recent factory refinements and the specific maintenance of the twin-keel junctions.

• Keel-to-Hull Joint: For any twin-keel vessel, the structural floors and keel bolts must be inspected for signs of stress, particularly if the boat has been frequently dried out on uneven or hard ground.
• Window Seals: The large panoramic windows are a highlight but require scrutiny. Check for any signs of UV degradation or weeping around the seals, as the structural adhesive used in modern deck saloons is critical for watertight integrity.
• Rudder Linkage: Given the twin-rudder setup, ensure there is no excessive play in the steering cables or the tie-bar that synchronizes the rudders, which can sometimes occur if the boat has sat in a high-current tidal mooring.
• Bose/Electrical Systems: The 36 was marketed with more sophisticated electrical options than previous Wrightons. Buyers should verify that the battery banks and charging systems are appropriately scaled for the onboard electronics and refrigeration.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Wrighton 36 and its predecessors are supported by a dedicated community of enthusiasts. The most prominent is the Association des Propriétaires de Bi-Loup (APBL), a French-based owner's association that provides a wealth of technical knowledge and organizes rallies. While the association's materials are primarily in French, they remain the definitive resource for technical drawings and historical context for the Bi-Loup and Wrighton lineages.

The Verdict

The Wrighton 36 is a specialist’s cruiser, blending the traditional utility of a grounding-capable boat with the aesthetics and comfort of a modern luxury yacht.

Pros

• True Grounding Capability: Can safely dry out on its twin keels, opening up shallow anchorages and tidal harbors.
• Exceptional Visibility: The panoramic deck saloon offers a bright interior and excellent situational awareness from below.
• Stability: High initial stability and twin rudders make for a predictable, safe motion in a seaway.

Cons

• Wetted Surface: In very light winds, the twin-keel drag makes it slower than a deep-fin equivalent.
• Availability: Production numbers are lower than major brands like Jeanneau or Beneteau, making them rarer on the brokerage market outside of France.
• Niche Appeal: The "biquille" design is highly valued in certain regions but may be less prioritized by sailors in deep-water Mediterranean or Caribbean environments.