C&C 36 1978 - opinions? problems?

[jacksonboat]

Hi all, looking at getting my second sailboat soon - currently have a hughes columbia 1982 - slow but sturdy and safe. We are now looking to get something a touch bigger and faster with a bigger cockpit as well. The Hughes cockpit is tiny.

Anyway what I have looked at is a 1978 C&C 36....really sleek look, appears to be in decent condition inside and out. Haven't gotten to the point of getting a survey done just yet - testing the waters right now and am seeking all of your input at this point.

The one glaring problem is that the keel bolts need to be tightened and sealed and then some faring done around the infamous C&C "smile" where the keel meets the hull.

Sails are in very good condition, hull is beautiful, deck has had some quality work done on it and the requisite electronics are intact. It has the original Atomic 4, which drives me nuts as I love the efficiency and safety of the diesel, but this I can live with.

Anyway what are the plusses and minuses of a boat this old, and this name?

I appreciate it, thanks in advance!

[puddinlegs]

Start here:

C&C Yachts - C&C Photo Album & Resource Center

[Pamojo]

I purchased a C&C 36 about a year ago and em really enjoying it.

I was looking for a boat I could "beer can" race and take the family or friends out for a cruise in coastal waters. The C&C has lived up to the task.

Sailing - The boat sails well in a variety of wind and wave conditions. I've taken her our in flat and calm through green water over the bow and 30 knots and am happy every time with the boat's performance. I was surprised how well the boat handled waves with a fin keel, a much smoother ride than anitcipated. It cuts and rides rather than climbs and pounds the short, steep chop of the Chesapeake. When you find the groove of the boat, she can compete with the best of them with plenty to fidget with if you choose.

Cruise - The cockpit and cabin are comfortable and well designed. Cabin table can be down and still allow easy passage through. Plenty of bunks. Cockpit that makes one feel comfortable on the water, even with kids, and roomy enough for 6. Tanks are a little small but we're never that far from services.

Happy to provide more info at request.

[paulk]

Moving from a Hughes/Columbia, the C&C is a definite step up in speed. The boat is likely well put together in general, though you should check to make sure the balsa core hasn't gotten overly wet in spots. There was a C&C 36 at our club, and it performed adequately. They don't seem to be overly speedy, or blessed with a great PHRF rating, so if you're looking to race, keep looking. For cruising, though, they're well appointed and comfortable. They also look nice, which is a plus with any boat. Even if it's slow, you can be proud to point her out on the mooring once you've arrived.