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Sailboat Specifications

Cs 36 Merlin

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder

Designed by Tony Castro · Built by Canadian Sailcraft (Can) · First built 1986

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LOA 36.00 ft  ·  Beam 11.50 ft  ·  Displacement 13,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 608.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder
About the Cs 36 Merlin Sailboat

Designed by renowned naval architect Tony Castro and built by Canadian Sailcraft from 1986 to 1990, this 36-footer represents a thoughtful balance between performance and comfort. With only 100 hulls produced during its four-year run, the Merlin has earned a reputation as a capable coastal cruiser with respectable sailing characteristics. Castro's design features a modern fin keel with bulb and spade rudder configuration, delivering good upwind performance while maintaining manageable handling characteristics. The masthead sloop rig provides versatile sail handling options, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those looking to develop their skills on a forgiving platform. At 13,000 pounds displacement with 5,590 pounds of ballast, the Merlin offers reassuring stability for coastal cruising and limited offshore passages. The comfort ratio of 24.88 indicates a relatively stiff motion that experienced sailors will appreciate, while the capsize screening value of 1.96 falls within acceptable ranges for coastal sailing with occasional offshore ventures. The boat's 608 square feet of sail area provides adequate power in light to moderate conditions, while the hull's lines allow for a respectable turn of speed. Canadian Sailcraft's fiberglass construction has generally proven durable, making used examples worth considering for sailors seeking a well-designed mid-sized cruiser with performance potential.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 36.00 ft / 10.97 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 29.17 ft / 8.89 m
Beam 11.50 ft / 3.51 m
Max Draft 6.25 ft / 1.91 m
Displacement 13,000.00 lb / 5,897 kg
Ballast 5,590.00 lb / 2,536 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 608.00 ft² / 56.49 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Tony Castro
Builder Canadian Sailcraft (CAN)
First Built 1986
Last Built 1990
Number Built 100
Related Sailboats C&C 36 · Sabre 36 · Frers 36 · First 36.7 Beneteau · Sigma 362
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo Penta
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 25
Fuel Capacity 40 gals / 151 L
Water Capacity 70 gals / 265 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cs 36 Merlin's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Cs 36 Merlin has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.66. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Cs 36 Merlin's comfort ratio?

The Cs 36 Merlin has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 24.88. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Cs 36 Merlin safe for offshore sailing?

The Cs 36 Merlin has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.96. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Cs 36 Merlin?

The theoretical hull speed of the Cs 36 Merlin is 7.24 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Cs 36 Merlin weigh?

The Cs 36 Merlin has a displacement of 13,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 36.00 ft.

Who designed the Cs 36 Merlin?

The Cs 36 Merlin was designed by Tony Castro, first built in 1986.