36 islander sailboat

I-36 Seasons Championships Our regular season Bay Area racing is now completed with our last race sailed last Saturday in the South Bay. Kudos to skippers and crew that participated in one or more of the races scheduled with special thanks to Rich and Tom Shoenhair on Windwalker and Dan Knox on Luna Sea for their almost perfect attendance record. This year's racing included a number of destination races including Vallejo, Encinal and the West Point Regatta intermixed with some around the buoys races in the South Bay Bridge Series. We had divisions for spinnaker and non spinnaker entries with Windwalker dominating the season in the spinnaker division and Kapai taking the non spinnaker category. Kapai was the lone entry for many of the races in the non spinnaker division and we thank Luna Sea for sailing non spin in the last race of the season giving us a chance to eke out a win! Here is a link to the season results: 2023 Season's Championship Results. Next up: The Nationals Regatta on Saturday, October 14th at Golden Gate Yacht Club. Beyond that, we plan to honor the winners at our Fall meeting November 18th at Coyote Point YC. Please plan to join usfor both and save the dates! All the Best Rick Egan Commodore

Last Updated 3/18/24

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The Modern Classic Racer-Cruiser

40-year-old islander 36 proves to be a comfortable and fast ride..

The Islander 36 was built from 1971 to 1985, making it one of the longest-lived 36-footers ever on the U.S. market. More than 750 of the Alan Gurney-designed racer-cruiser sloops were built, with production spanning almost the entire history of Islander Yachts.

When it was first introduced, the Islander 36 seemed conservatively modern in appearance, with a flattish but concave sheerline, a fin keel, and a skeg-mounted rudder. The boat was designed as a racer-cruiser under the then-new International Offshore Rule (IOR) , but you would be hard-pressed to say that the same rule could create both the I36 and a modern IOR design. The Islander 36 was launched during the infancy of the IOR, before boat designers took advantage of the rules loopholes. As a result, its hull shape is undistorted and bears more resemblance to a modern fast cruiser than to a contemporary IOR racer.

While custom boats were the biggest force in racing in 1971, it was still possible to be competitive in local regattas with a production racer-cruiser. That all changed very quickly. Boats like the Islander 36-which were out-designed under the IOR but were still reasonably fast and easy to sail-served as the foundation for the movement that became the Model A of handicap racing: the Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF). And still today, I36s often take podium positions in PHRF races, particularly where I36 fleets are most popular, particularly in the San Francisco Bay area.

Even by todays standards, the hull proportions of the Islander 36 are nearly ideal for a modern racer-cruiser. The beam is moderate and carried well aft, offering fairly good hull volume aft, so that the boat does not squat excessively when cockpit lockers are loaded with cruising gear. Despite the age of the design, the I36 is not dated in appearance. You could even say that the boat is a modern classic.

The Islander 36 is predominantly a West Coast boat, but youll find them throughout the U.S. Most of the owners responding to our survey use the boat for daysailing, club racing, and coastal cruising.

Sailing Performance

Despite being designed as a racer-cruiser with an IOR Mk I rating of 27.9, the Islander 36 was not a particularly fast or successful IOR boat. However, under the PHRF rating system, a well-sailed Islander 36 is a reasonably competitive boat; many are still active in club racing, with the largest contingent in California, where conditions are a good match for the I36.

The Islander 36s rig is a simple, untapered aluminum spar stepped through the deck. It has two sets of spreaders and double lower shrouds. The shrouds are set well inboard, and genoa tracks are set just outboard of the cabin trunk to take advantage of the tight sheeting angles.

The Islander 36 is well-balanced under sail, although like many boats of its era with relatively small mainsails, you need a variety of headsails to keep the boat moving her best in all conditions. While this isn’t a problem on a crewed racing boat, todays fast cruisers tend to have slightly larger mainsails so that less-frequent headsail changes are required. The original I36 sailplan shows genoa overlaps as large as 180 percent; genoas that large are generally a nuisance to handle and tack.

Both deep and shoal draft keels were available on the Islander 36. Most boats have the deep keel, and this version of the boat is generally about six seconds per mile faster. The shoal-draft boat has an additional 150 pounds of ballast to compensate for the keels higher center of gravity.

The mainsheet traveler is positioned at the forward end of the companionway hatch. Late-model boats have a small molded breakwater aft of the traveler so that a companionway dodger can be installed. On boats without the breakwater, installing a dodger is trickier. Since the mainsheet is attached almost exactly to the middle of the boom, sheet loads are fairly high, and youll need a winch to trim the main in heavier air.

Original steering, mostly Edson brand, was the typical chain and sprocket with the steering cable led through sheaves to a quadrant clamped to the rudder post. The boat was designed with a tiller, but most owners have retrofitted wheel steering over the years. Since there are very few owner complaints about excessive weather helm, changing to wheel steering was more a matter of personal choice than necessity.

You will find slight differences in deck layouts, depending on whether the boat has been used predominantly for racing or cruising. On racing boats, the primary headsail-sheet winches are usually located on the forward portion of the cockpit coamings, with the secondaries aft. That position is often reversed on cruising boats. Likewise, racing boats may have most halyard and lift winches mounted at the base of the mast; cruisers use fewer winches, mounted on the mast itself. For shorthanded family cruising and daysailing-the type of sailing for which the boat is best suited-we would suggest larger-than-standard multi-speed self-tailing headsail sheet winches installed on the coaming, near the helmsman.

The I36s cockpit is very deep, which can make it challenging for some to see over the cabin when seated. Other cockpit features make it less than ideal for offshore work: cockpit drains are fairly small and there is no bridgedeck. To comply with the International Sailing Federations (ISAF) Offshore Special Regulations for offshore racing, the companionway dropboards would have to be fixed in place up to the level of the aft cockpit coaming, which would make it extremely difficult to get below.

Like most boats with a long production history, a variety of engines were used in the Islander 36-and most have been replaced over the years-making generalizations about performance under power difficult.

The I36 was first powered with an Atomic Four gasoline engine; that was followed by the undersized Palmer P-60 gas engine, the optional Perkins 4-108 diesel, and then the optional Westerbeke L-25 four-cylinder diesel. Islander even used a Volkswagen diesel engine, the Pathfinder 42 horsepower, in the 36 at one point, and by the end of the boats production run, a 30-horsepower Yanmar diesel was used. Most of these original auxillaries have since been replaced.

The most common replacement engines youll find in contemporary Islander 36s are Yanmars, usually in the 30- to 37-horsepower range. They are lighter, and with about a 2:1 reduction and a 13-inch three-blade, fixed prop, the I36 can approach 7 knots in flat water.

Given this wide variety of engines-some left-handed, some right-handed-and the mix of fixed, folding, and feathering props, Islanders will often pull from one side to another when backing up. With all but the smallest two-blade, folding props, skippers will need good seamanship skills for well-behaved backing into slips and docks. The knack is to get the boat moving astern with modest power, idle to keep speed under 2 knots, then use the large rudder and skeg to ease into a berth.

The Islander 36s interior finish is one of its best selling points. However, there are several interior-design shortcomings that are typical of boats of the early 1970s. Two of the biggest changes in boat interiors since then have been in navigation stations and galleys. The marine electronics boom had not begun in 1971. Loran C was new, and very expensive. Only hot race boats had wind instrumentation. Satnav was a far-off dream for recreational sailors, as were such things as personal computers and weather facsimile machines. For this reason, nav stations on cruising 36-footers in the early 1970s were rudimentary, when they existed at all.

The nav station of the Islander 36 is no exception. It is tucked away under the sidedeck, and the cabin sole in front of it slopes awkwardly upward. There are no drawers beneath the chart table, no good place for chart stowage. Theres no place to sit, and if you use the shelf above the table for electronics, theres no space for books. On late model I36s, there are drawers just forward of the chart table behind the port settee, but by modern standards, the boats nav station is nothing to brag about.

The shortfalls have given owners reason to use their sailorly ingenuity and a little creativity to come up with ways to add GPS, chartplotter, AIS, SSB, and radar instruments to the cozy nav station area. Youll find as many different solutions as there are I36s on the used boat market, and the I36 Owners Association website (www.islander36.org) offers some good examples.

The original I36 galley also is a relic from the days when a lot of people considered cruising in a sailboat just one step above camping out in a tent. The sloping cabin sole in the galley makes it difficult to work at the sink or reach the bottom of the icebox. There is relatively little counter space or storage space. There is no provision for galley ventilation except the main companionway, and without a dodger, the companionway cannot be left open in the rain because of the forward-sloping aft bulkhead.

A large number of Islanders were built with alcohol stoves, many of which have been replaced with propane or natural gas. Microwaves also have been added to current I36 galleys. Some I36s were produced with refrigeration systems, and many others have been added along the way. Pressure water systems are also common in todays Islander 36s, though not universal.

Aft of the nav station on the port side, there is a quarterberth tucked completely beneath the cockpit. The lack of ventilation in the quarterberth is a problem in warm climates, and its location is not one for the claustrophobic.

The main saloon itself is quite comfortable. The settees on either side are long enough to be comfortable berths. The starboard settee folds out into a double berth, but it is not the most convenient to set up or use. Above and behind each settee, there is a fair amount of storage space. Late model boats have lockers and drawers outboard of the port settee, while earlier boats have only a shelf. It would be fairly easy to build storage lockers in this area on an older boat, and many owners have.

Most boats of this size have fixed cabin tables, but the Islander 36s folds up against the bulkhead at the forward end of the main cabin. It is just possible to squeeze by the table along the starboard side when it is in use.

Ventilation is a weak point in the Islander 36, as it is with a lot of boats. Late model I36s have a ventilation hatch overhead in the middle of the main cabin; theres no reason you couldnt add one to an older boat. A hatch in the cabin trunk over the forward cabin provides fair-weather ventilation, but theres no provision for air?ow in bad weather. You can add cowl vents in dorade boxes, but the installation is tricky due to the vinyl headliner. The original foam and vinyl headliners had zippers to access the backs of fittings, but they tend to corrode shut. Many owners have opted to replace the headliners.

The head compartment is to port at the forward end of the main cabin, with lockers opposite on the starboard side. Headroom of over 6 feet is carried all the way forward. Drawers under the V-berth and a narrow hanging locker to starboard offer reasonable storage. A door at the aft end of the forward cabin can be secured in the open position to provide privacy for the forward cabin.

Conclusions

Unlike a lot of boats with long production histories, there are relatively few differences between the first and last Islander 36s. This means that youll likely be able to find a well-kept boat at a pretty good price. Most have seen systems upgrades and creative interior makeovers that make this modern classic a competitor for newer used production boats. The I36 also boasts a very active and large owners association, an invaluable resource for those buying-or thinking about buying-an older used boat. Since so many Islander 36s were built, theres a well-established used boat market, and you should not have trouble reselling one in the future, particularly if youre West Coast based.

Because of the cockpit design and relatively light construction, this is not the type of boat that we would choose for extended offshore voyaging, but there have been several I36s that have successfully raced from California to Hawaii, and a number have made circumnavigations. In our opinion, the I36 is best suited for coastal cruising, club racing, or even daysailing and weekend getaways.

As with any older boat, a careful survey is mandatory. Pay particular attention to the chainplates, gelcoat condition, rig, and the mast step. We would also look hard at the engine installation, fuel system, and the hull structure near the mast. Try working in the galley and at the chart table to see if you can live with them.

All in all, the Islander 36 is a well-mannered, fast-sailing boat, at its best in a breeze. With proper, modern sail-handling equipment, it can easily be handled by a couple for shorthanded cruising. With good sails and a smooth bottom, it is also can be a competitive PHRF club racer.

Owners Comments

The boat is easy to sail single-handed, especially with an autopilot. It has great speed and points well into the wind. It offers plenty of space for a single person or a couple for full-time cruising. I upgraded the galleywitha three-burner stove and oven, and replaced the holding tanks. Im still working with the original Pathfinder 42-horsepower diesel engine. It has plenty of power, butit isn’t always easy to find parts or someone to work on it. – Len Diegel; Katana, 1980 Islander 36; Lake Grapevine, Texas

The I36 is a fun and fast boat in most wind conditions, and it does respectable in its class in local races. Improvements that would make the I36 even better would be the addition of well-placed cabin handholds to aid in moving about the cabin in bad weather, and a better-designed navigation station, which is too small and offers no place to sit. – Jack and Anneke Wolf; Trillium, 1976 I36; Muskegon, Mich.

We purchased our I36 in 2012, from the second owner who had maintained it in like new condition. This boat must represent the very best value in a coastal cruising boat for the San Francisco Bay area. Having been a racer for 40 years, my wife didnt appreciate sailing with me until we bought this boat and settled into pleasure sailing. Comfortable, stable, quick, and roomy all describe our experiences. It has put the pleasure into sailing for us. – Gene Novak; Fantasy, 1980 Islander 36, hull #581; San Francisco, Calif.

We have sailed the boat in 80-mile-per-hour winds with no problem. The Islander 36 is the perfect daysailer-coastal cruiser. My only criticism is with the galley, which is poorly designed and not very functional. – 1972 model, Texas

This is an excellent boat for cruising. It can be singlehanded with the help of self-tailing winches. Our aluminum holding tank failed. – l977 model, California

We bought the boat for its appearance, reputation, and size. Its a great boat for San Francisco Bay and the Pacific coast. Weve sailed it south to the Channel Islands and north to Canada. – l978 model, California

Very fast for a comfortable cruising boat. The boat seems to be a good compromise between being light enough to sail well and heavy enough to be safe and solid. Gelcoat has crazed in spots. – 1979 model, Michigan

The intermediate and lower shroud chainplate is pulling out of the bulkhead. – l980 model, California

The only real problem with the boat is lack of ventilation. It is an excellent blend of sailing performance for the cruising couple or club racer. I suggest looking for an older model since they are often exceptional buys and are essentially the same boat that was produced until 1984. – 1973 model, Florida

The cockpit sole is flush with the companionway sill, which is not a seaworthy setup for going offshore. The aft bulkhead is too slanted to leave the companionway dropboards out when its raining unless you have a dodger. – l980 model, Maryland

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Bluewater Sailboat – Islander 36

A well-mannered, quick-sailing boat, the bluewater Islander 36 performs best in a breeze. It can be easily handled by a pair for shorthanded cruising if they have the right, modern sail-handling equipment. It can also be a competitive PHRF club racer if the sails are in good condition and the bottom is smooth.

The Islander 36’s hull dimensions are almost perfect for a contemporary racer-cruiser even by today’s standards. When cockpit lockers are filled with cruising gear, the boat does not squat significantly because the beam is reasonable and carried well aft, providing reasonably decent hull capacity aft. The I36 doesn’t look antiquated in spite of the design’s age. The boat might possibly qualify as a contemporary classic.

This bluewater sailboat is primarily a West Coast boat, however they are available all around the country. The boat is mostly used by its owners for coastal cruising, club racing, and daysailing.

Looking for a used sailboat for sale? Check out the bluewater sailboat data and specs to make an informed decision. Ocean Wave Sail has data for over 10000+ boats that can help you select one to meet your sailing needs.

• Designer:    Alan Gurney
• LWL:   28’3”
• Beam:   11’2” 
• Draft:   6’ deep or 4’9” shoal
• Ballast:  5450 lbs deep draft
• Displacement:  13,450 lbs deep draft
• Sail Area:  612 sq ft
• Fuel Tankage:  30 gallons
• Water Tankage: 56 gallons
• Ballast/Disp  40%
• SA/Disp  17.3

There were between 700 and 800 hulls made of the Islander 36 (I36), a real classic. Although the company’s history prior to the creation of the I36 is somewhat hazy, it is believed that the company was formerly known as the McGlasson Corporation before being acquired by or changed into Wayfarer Marine in the 1960s. Smaller boats, such the 27-footer, were the first to be produced. Later, Islander sold a 37-foot kit boat, which changed into a 36-foot production sailboat and then into this slender, well-liked classic.

The bluewater Islander 36 had one of the longest production runs of any 36-footers ever on the American market, lasting from 1971 until 1985.

The manufacturing of the racer-cruiser sloops by Alan Gurney spanned practically the entire lifetime of Islander Yachts and included over 750 units.

With a flat but concave sheerline, a fin keel, and a skeg-mounted rudder, the Islander 36 appeared conservatively modern when it was originally displayed. The vessel was created as a racer-cruiser in accordance with the then-current International Offshore Rule (IOR), however it is highly unlikely that the same rule could have produced both the I36 and a contemporary IOR design. The Islander 36 was introduced when the IOR was still in its infancy, before boat designers began to take advantage of the regulations’ weaknesses. Because of this, its hull shape is undistorted and more resembles a contemporary fast cruiser than an IOR RACER.

Even though custom boats dominated the racing scene in 1971, a factory racer-cruiser could still compete in regional regattas. That all abruptly changed. The Performance Handicap Racing Fleet, which was founded around boats like the Islander 36, which were out-designed under the IOR but were still pretty fast and simple to sail, is now the Model A of handicap racing (PHRF). Even today, I36s frequently finish on the podium in PHRF competitions, especially in areas where I36 fleets are most prevalent, such as the San Francisco Bay area.

The I36 is designed by Alan Gurney with the goal of building a “36-foot yacht that would be a competitive machine but also be able to cruise a family comfortably.” The I36 racing pedigree is certain because Gurney also created fast classics like Windward Passage, Guinevere, and Great Britain II. The I36 is simple to control and can easily handle strong winds and large swells. With a ballast to displacement ratio of 40%, this bluewater sailboat is quick and strong, and even after 30 years, she will compete on the racetrack. The I36 can move at eight mph and can almost self-steer in winds of 20 to 30 knots, however it can feel a little slow in light air.

Similar to how a Swan is built on the port and starboard sides, the Islander 36 is constructed in four components, including the two hull portions, the deck, and the liner. The construction of one of these modified fin keel, full skeg rudder boats took roughly 700 hours. The hulls are made of solid glass, and the deck has a through-bolted plywood core and an alloy toe rail on top. However, some of the early bluewater sailboats are claimed to have had iron in the keel. The majority of the models used lead ballast. A few versions from the middle of the 1970s also experienced blistering issues, but part of those issues were related to whether the boat was kept in warm or cold waters, whether it was a year-round vessel, or whether it was decommissioned for the winter as it did in the Great Lakes region. The models changed over time based on the features and conveniences given because the hulls remained largely same. For instance, interior features like refrigeration and battery chargers were optional, as were folding props and shallow draught keels.

The I36 sail area on a double spreader, high aspect ratio rig is approximately 600 square feet. Since the design aggressively pulls the utmost power from its rig, those who have raced an I36 describe it as “moving fast on a stiff boat with short sails.” Most Islanders built in the 1970s had issues with mast step rust, and it is likely that the Kenyon spar needs to be lifted and trimmed. Of course, whether the boat will be used for cruising or racing, any rig will need maintenance every 15 years or so and should be inspected.

Depending on whether the yacht has been used mostly for cruising or racing, you will notice subtle variations in deck arrangements. On racing boats, the primary headsail-sheet winches are often placed on the cockpit coamings’ forward half, and the secondary winches are placed on the coamings’ rear half. On cruising boats, that position is frequently reversible. Similar to how racing boats may have the majority of their halyard and lift winches located at the mast’s base, cruisers employ fewer winches mounted directly on the mast. The type of sailing for which the boat is most suited is shorthanded family cruising and daysailing, hence it is advised installing larger-than-normal multi-speed self-tailing headsail sheet winches on the coaming, close to the helmsman.

One of the Islander 36’s strongest selling points is the inside quality. There are, however, a few internal design flaws that are characteristic of early 1970s yachts. The navigation stations and galleys have undergone the biggest changes to boat interiors since that time. In 1971, the boom in maritime electronics was not yet underway. Loran C was pricey and brand-new. Wind instruments were only found aboard fast raceboats. For recreational sailors, technologies like satnav, personal computers, and weather facsimile machines were distant dreams. Because of this, early 1970s cruising 36-footers had basic navigational systems, if any at all.

The Islander 36’s navigation station is not an exception.

The cabin sole in front of it slopes awkwardly upward, and it is concealed behind the sidedeck. Under the chart table, there are no drawers, making it difficult to store charts. There is nowhere to sit, and if you put devices on the shelf above the table, there is no room for books. Even though there are drawers behind the port settee slightly forward of the chart table on late-model I36 boats, the nav station isn’t particularly impressive by today’s standards.

Due to the deficiencies, owners have had to use some initiative and innovation to add GPS, chartplotter, AIS, SSB, and radar instruments to the comfortable nav station area.

On the used sailboat market, there are as many varied solutions as there are I36s, and the I36 Owners Association website (www.islander36.org) provides some excellent examples.

The original I36 galley is another artefact from a time when many people thought sailing was only a step up from tent camping. It is challenging to work at the sink or reach the bottom of the icebox due to the sloping cabin sole in the galley. There isn’t much room for storage or a counter. The main companionway is the only option for galley ventilation, and without a dodger, it cannot be left open in the rain due to the forward-sloping aft bulkhead.

Many of the islanders’ original alcohol stoves have been replaced by propane or natural gas versions. Current I36 galleys now include microwaves as well. Many other refrigeration systems have been added throughout the years, and some I36s were built with them already. Although not always present, pressure water systems are also typical in modern Islander 36s.

On the port side, a quarterberth is concealed entirely beneath the cockpit and is located behind the navigation station. In warm areas, the quarterberth’s lack of ventilation is an issue, and its location is not ideal for those who are claustrophobic.

The main saloon is a really cosy space. Both of the side sofas are long enough to serve as cozy sleepers.

Although the starboard settee can be folded out into a double sleeper, doing so is not the easiest. A decent quantity of storage is available above and behind each sofa. In contrast to previous boats, which just had a shelf outside the port settee, more recent boats include lockers and drawers. On an older boat, it would be pretty simple to construct storage lockers, and many owners did.

The Islander 36s folds up against the bulkhead at the forward end of the main cabin, unlike the majority of boats of this size. When the table is in use along the starboard side, it is barely feasible to squeeze by.

The Islander 36, like many yachts, has a problem with ventilation. There is no reason why a ventilation hatch couldn’t be added to an older boat. Modern I36s have one overhead in the centre of the main cabin. Fair-weather ventilation is provided through a hatch in the cabin trunk above the forward cabin, but there is no provision for air flow in inclement weather. Dorade boxes can accommodate cowl vents, but due to the vinyl headliner, installation is challenging. To access the backs of fittings, the original foam and vinyl headliners had zippers, however these often rust shut. The headliners have been changed by many owners.

At the front end of the main cabin, the head compartment is to the port, while the opposite starboard side has the lockers. All the way forward, there is headroom of more than 6 feet. Storage is enough because to the drawers under the V-berth and the little hanging locker to starboard. To offer privacy for the front cabin, a door at the aft end of the cabin can be locked in the open position.

The Islander 36 is powered by a number of engines, which makes generalizations about performance under power challenging. Like most bluewater sailboats with a long history of manufacturing, most of these engines have been replaced over time.

Atomic Four gasoline engines were used to power the I36 first, then the smaller Palmer P-60 gasoline engines, the optional Perkins 4-108 diesel, and finally the optional Westerbeke L-25 four-cylinder diesel. At one point, Islander even installed a 42-horsepower Volkswagen diesel engine in the 36, and at the end of the boat’s production cycle, a 30-horsepower Yanmar diesel was in use. The majority of these original auxillaries have been replaced since then.

Yanmar replacement engines, typically in the 30- to 37-horsepower range, are the most prevalent you’ll find on modern Islander 36s. Since they are lighter, the I36 can approach 7 knots in flat water with a 2:1 reduction and a 13-inch, three-blade fixed prop.

Islanders frequently pull from one side to the other when backing up due to the vast range of engines—some left-handed, some right-handed—and the combination of fixed, foldable, and feathering props. Skippers will need good seamanship skills for well-behaved backing into slips and docks with all save the smallest two-blade, folding props. The trick is to idle to maintain speed under 2 knots while pushing the boat astern, then use the huge rudder and skeg to gently into a berth.

Performance

Despite having an IOR Mk I rating of 27.9 and being intended as a racer-cruiser, the Islander 36 is not a particularly successful or quick IOR boat. A well-sailed Islander 36 is a reasonably competitive boat under the PHRF rating system, and many of them are still involved in club racing, with the majority of them racing in California, where the conditions are ideal for the I36.

Simple, untapered metal spar that is stepped through the deck makes up the Islander 36s rig. It has double bottom shrouds and two sets of spreaders. To take advantage of the tight sheeting angles, the shrouds are situated deep inboard and the genoa tracks are set close outboard of the cabin trunk.

Although the Islander 36 is well-balanced under sail, you need a choice of headsails to keep the boat moving optimally in all situations since, like many boats of its era with relatively small mainsails, it has a small mainsail. On a crewed racing boat, this isn’t an issue, but modern fast cruisers typically have significantly larger mainsails, which means headsail changes are less frequent. Generous genoa overlaps, up to 180 percent, are depicted on the original I36 sailplan. Generous genoas like these are typically difficult to handle and tack.

On the Islander 36, shoal and deep draught keels were both available. The majority of boats have a deep keel, and this design is often six seconds per mile faster.

To make up for the keels greater centre of gravity, the shoal-draft boat has an extra 150 pounds of ballast.

The front end of the companionway hatch houses the mainsheet traveler. In order to install a companionway dodger, modern boats feature a small moulded breakwater behind the traveller. It is more difficult to install a dodger on vessels without a breakwater. Due to the mainsheet’s close proximity to the boom’s midsection, sheet loads are relatively high, necessitating the use of a winch to trim the main in heavy air.

With the steering wire routed through sheaves to a quadrant affixed to the rudder post, the original steering system, which is primarily Edson brand, used the standard chain and sprocket.

Although the boat is originally intended to be driven by a tiller, most owners have already installed steering wheels. The switch to wheel steering is more of a personal preference than a requirement because there aren’t many owner complaints about excessive weather helm.

Because of the I36’s very deep cockpit, certain passengers may find it difficult to look above the cabin when sitting. The lack of a bridgedeck and the relatively tiny cockpit drainage make her less than suited for offshore work. The companionway dropboards would have to be set in place up to the level of the aft cockpit coaming in order to comply with the International Sailing Federations (ISAF) Offshore Special Regulations for offshore racing, which would make it very challenging to reach below.

Quick Notes

There aren’t as many distinctions between the first and last Islander 36s as there are between many boats with lengthy production histories. As a result, you may probably locate a well-kept yacht for a reasonable price. Most people have seen clever interior redesigns and system updates that make this contemporary classic a rival to more recent used production boats. The I36 also has a big and active owners association, which is a priceless resource for anyone purchasing or considering purchasing an older secondhand boat. You shouldn’t have any trouble reselling an Islander 36 in the future because there is a sizable used boat market, especially if you live on the West Coast.

This is not the type of boat to pick for long offshore voyages due to the cockpit design and relatively light construction, but there have been numerous I36s that have successfully raced from California to Hawaii, and a couple have accomplished circumnavigations. The I36 is best suited for weekend trips, club racing, and coastal cruising.

Like any older yacht, a thorough survey is required. Pay close attention to the mast step, rig, chainplates, and state of the gelcoat. Also pay close attention to the hull construction close to the mast, the fuel system, and the engine installation. To check if you can coexist with them, try working in the galley and at the chart table.

Now you can also precisely calculate the expenses related to boat ownership so that you can make smart choices based on your budget and sailing needs. Use this Sailboat Calculator to explore different options and make the best decision.

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Windancer 1977 | 36' Islander 36 Sailboat for Sale

1977 islander, 36' (10.97m) 36 - windancer, one of the most successful designs ever, there were 770 islander 36 footers produced. this one has been updated with new sails, new bimini and the 4108 perkins has less than a thousnd hours. even now it makes an excellent racer/cruiser..

• Roper North Carolina United States
• Fiberglass Hull

$ 35,500 USD

€ 32,963 euros $ 47,928 cad.

• EMAIL BROKER

Description

Price reduced.

WINDANCER, a 1977 Islander Islander 36 is one of the most successful designs ever, there were 770 Islander 36 footers produced. This one has been updated with new sails, new bimini and the 4108 Perkins has less than a thousand hours. even now it makes an excellent racer/cruiser.  

The Islander 36 was built from 1971 to 1985, making it one of the longest-lived 36-footers ever on the U.S. market. More than 750 of the Alan Gurney-designed racer-cruiser sloops were built, with production spanning almost the entire history of Islander Yachts. Unlike a lot of boats with long production histories, there are relatively few differences between the first and last Islander 36s built. 

All in all, the Islander 36 fast-sailing boat, With proper, modern sail-handling equipment, it could easily be handled by a couple for shorthanded cruising. With good sails and a smooth bottom, it is also can be a competitive PHRF club racer. Very fast for a comfortable cruising boat. The boat seems to be a good compromise between being light enough to sail well and heavy enough to be safe and solid. It has been described by owners as comfortable, stable, quick, and roomy. Even by todays standards, the hull proportions of the Islander 36 are nearly ideal for a modern racer-cruiser. The beam is moderate and carried well aft, offering fairly good hull volume aft, Despite the age of the design, the I36 is not dated in appearance. You could even say that the boat is a modern classic.  

WINDANCER is available to see by appointment near Plymouth NC. Contact us directly with questions or to schedule a showing.

LOA: 36' " (10.97 Meters)

Type: Sail - Used

Beam: 11' 2"

Bridge Clearance: 50' "

Draft Max: 4' 9"

Draft Min: ' "

Single Berths: 1

Maximum Speed: 9 Knots

Cruise Speed: 6 Knots

Fuel Type: Diesel

Hull Material: Fiberglass

Fuel Tank: 50 Gallons (189.27 Liters)

Fresh Water: 25 Gallons (94.64 Liters)

Holding Tank: 15 Gallons (56.78 Liters)

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Windancer 1977 Islander 36

Contact Broker

For more information about this yacht please contact Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. We look forward to working with you!

Want more information about this yacht?

Jim Edwards

, Direct: 252-474-6000 Toll Free: Office: 252-249-2424 Email: [email protected]

Curtis Stokes & Associates

, North Carolina Phone: 1-954-684-0218 Toll Free: 1-855-266-5676 Fax: 1-954-807-1445 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.curtisstokes.net

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Islander 36

The islander 36 is a 36.08ft masthead sloop designed by alan p. gurney and built in fiberglass by islander / tradewind yachts between 1971 and 1986., 770 units have been built..

The Islander 36 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally small. There is a short water supply range.

Islander 36 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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• Sailboat Guide

1979 Islander 36 Tall Rig Deep Keel

• Description

Seller's Description

Standard features

Contact Tom at SixOneSix SixThreeEight NineEightSixSix

Boat is located in Muskegon , Michigan.

This 2 owner freshwater 36 footer is a well maintained nicely functioning sailor.

Its very close to original condition and shows very well.

It has a double spreader rig, two mains, two headsails and two asymmetrical spinnakers.

Electric flush, newer holding tank.

Low hours atomic 4.

Two anchors, one dinghy.

Newer genoa sheets and newer spinnaker sheets.

Newer mainsheet.

Oversized 36 inch steering wheel.

Two new batteries. 40 amp inverter and battery charger. 110 volt receptacles.

The boat is located at Torresen Marine in Muskegon, Michigan.

Storage and launch are paid.

Comes with a cradle, boat cover and a dinghy.

www.boatblast.net/112340/Islander-36-Tall-Rig-Deep-Keel-Muskegon–Michigan

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

With nearly 800 boats built this was one of the most successful models from Islander Yachts. During it’’s production history the ISLANDER 36 was delivered with the following engines (in a an approximate cronological order):

Universal Atomic 4 -Gas Palmer P-60 - Gas Perkins 4-108 - Diesel Westerbeke L-25 - Diesel Pathfinder - Diesel Yanmar - Diesel

It is said that the molds for the ISLANDER 36 were purchased by Newport Offshore Yachts of CA, USA in 1986. But it is not known if any other boats were built after this date.

SHOAL DRAFT: 4.8’/1.46m

TALL RIG: I(IG):47.00’ / 14.33m J: 14.48’ / 4.41m P: 41.30’ / 12.59m E: 12.80’ / 3.90m

This listing is presented by SailboatOwners.com . Visit their website for more information or to contact the seller.

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Quality of an Islander 36

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I'm looking at the Islander 36. This review Used Boat Notebook: From the Pages ... - John Kretschmer - Google Books seems to give it high marks. It does mention insufficient tabbing at the bulkheads as a potential problem that should be addressed. However, this seems to be the only major structural flaw. Yet, in the rating system under "Construction Quality", it gives the boat a low rating, states that original construction was "light", and infers that the only reason so many Islander 36's are still afloat is due to the loving care of their owners (OUCH!). This seems out of context to the general review. Thoughts? BTW....The link has several other used boat reviews as well.  

We have a friend with an immaculate I36 - it is very well looked after. It's quite a roomy, cozy boat that seems to do well in most conditions. I can say, though, that I've seen a worrisome number on the hard in our area with pretty significant blistering issues.. but I don't know if that's a general thing or not. Chances are, on a nice one, that will have been dealt with already and properly barrier coated..  

Faster said: I can say, though, that I've seen a worrisome number on the hard in our area with pretty significant blistering issues.. but I don't know if that's a general thing or not. Chances are, on a nice one, that will have been dealt with already and properly barrier coated.. Click to expand...

Great boats. Spent many yrs sailing on and out of SF bay during the late 70's. Btw, this is what Zack Sunderland sailed around the world when he became the youngest to do so. 'Nuff said?  

SloopJonB said: Consider that the NEWEST one is 25 years old and they can be up to 40 with, I suspect, the majority being well over 30 years old. Given that fact, how badly could they have been built? How many other products from the early to mid 70's do you own or even see around? Houses and collector cars are about it (I do still have my Marantz & Altec Lansing stereo ). Actually, I recently traded in a top loading clothes washer because I wanted the newer, more efficient, front loading/stackable type. As Sears hauled the old machine away, it dawned on me that it was well over 30 years old and was still running strong. It was used several times weekly (Unlike most boats, BTW). I guarantee the new units won't be running in 30 years (I've already had service issues)! I have an old Pioneer stereo with tubes that works perfectly, and IMO sounds better than most units currently on the market. I don't use it anymore because technology has evolved (some would say - devolved!) so much (no USB ports on the receiver, can't get LP's for the turntable, etc.!) Not so for sailing (unless you are racing seriously, in which case, you wouldn't be looking for old boats.) Old GRP boats are incredibly long lived. A large number of tall tales and old wives tales about the "quality" or lack thereof of the build from back in the day have survived until now. AFAIAC they have been proven meaningless by the continued survival of these GOB's. Any boat over 20 years old will need regular maintenance. As indicated in the review, some "survive" with less attention than others. I doubt the weak tabbing at the bulkheads (cited in the review) is a "wives tale". While it probably wasn't an issue for the first 20 years of the boats life, it certainly would be now. I have a 40 year old Yankee, and the bulkheads or blisters have never been an issue. All boats are not created equal. 40 year old Westsail or Hunter? Price and intended use not withstanding, you choose! I know about Westsails (which have known issues as well) and Hunters. I'm not familiar with Islanders. Check out the one you are interested in like any other boat you might consider and forget about the stories - most of THEM are 30 to 40 years old as well. Click to expand...

As with any boat of this vintage, bulkhead tabbing, condition of bulkheads and deck, chainplates and all deck hardware needs serious inspection and proper corrective measures taken. During this process, upgrade where necessary depending on your intended use. The I36 is one of the more memorable production boats I sailed on in the late 70's-early 80's.  

Re: Quality of the Islander 36 If you are still looking for an Islander 36 send me PM  

Re: Quality of the Islander 36 I walked from a 37 due to wet decks and hull. Not sure that would apply to a 36'.  

Btw, this is what Zack Sunderland sailed around the world when he became the youngest to do so. 'Nuff said? Click to expand...

Re: Quality of the Islander 36 I am looking for one  

Practical Sailor had a good review in its February 2016 issue. Overall the 36 was rated as a fast and comfortable vessel, with its relatively light construction limiting it to coastal cruising. Main cons were, no bridge deck, poor ventilation, original ports and toe rails tendency to leak, small mainsail and small scuppers.  

The old reviews mentioned a number of "cheapass" construction points that were fairly common in the 70's. Like cockpit drains that go below the waterline--with no seacocks to secure them, when and if the drain hoses rupture. Possibly gate valves, IIRC, on other lines. But I did spend a weekend on one a long time ago. Owner had no complaints, loved the boat. Big companionway and wide salon would be a minus offshore, but very nice at anchor.  

You might want to slow your current want-it-now emotions down a bit. You should step back for a while and educate yourself on what your boats needs are, and why some boats are more (or less) meeting those needs. Shallow end, then go to deep end. You will thank yourself a jillion pats on the back if you wait a while and educate yourself. You will find little lights going off in your head along the way...things becoming clearer...an understanding. You will learn a lot...really fast. I'll be fun. A suggestion...  

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