CS 36 MERLIN
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 36 ft |
| LWL | 29.17 ft |
| Beam | 11.5 ft |
| Draft | 6.25 ft |
| Displacement | 13,000 lb |
| Ballast | 5,590 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.2 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 45.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.3 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 39.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14.3 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 630.3 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 325.3 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 553.1 sq ft |
About the CS 36 MERLIN
The CS 36 MERLIN, while having similar dimensions to the CS 36 TRADITIONAL, is a completely different design. While it was being produced a purchaser had five pages of options to choose from— a Kevlar or fibreglass hull; a swim platform or regular transom; a 28 hp diesel or a 43 hp turbo; a tall or regular rig and by the end, four keel configurations (shoal, wing, deep and performance bulb). As a result, other than the 20 or so that went into charter, no two Merlins are alike. Contruction standards were high. The hull was hand-laid fibreglass or Kevlar with balsa core above the water and both hull and deck were vacuum bagged. Wing keel version draft: 5.00' / 1.52m. Photo courtesy of Adam Hunt.
Designed by Tony Castro and built by Canadian Sailcraft between 1986 and 1990, the CS 36 Merlin is a robust cruising sloop with a production run of 100 hulls. Owner reports highlight its reputation for solid construction and comfortable offshore performance, though potential buyers must be vigilant regarding structural integrity in the deck and keel areas.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideally suited for coastal cruisers and those seeking a capable bluewater passage maker who prioritize comfort and stability over high-performance racing metrics. Its heavy displacement and proven design make it a strong candidate for long-term liveaboards and extended offshore voyages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 13000.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 1.96, the CS 36 Merlin is well-regarded for offshore safety and stability, supported by owner reports that frequently mention successful bluewater passages and the installation of davits and solar panels for extended cruising.
- Comparables:
- The CS 36 Merlin compares favorably with other heavy-displacement Canadian and British cruising yachts from the late 1980s, such as the Island Packet 36 or the Hallberg-Rassy 362, due to its similar emphasis on seaworthiness and interior volume. It also shares design DNA with earlier CS models, offering a more modern layout while retaining the brand's signature ruggedness.
Performance
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 36ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
13 reported issues across 7 systems for the CS 36 MERLIN, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CS 36 MERLIN? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 13 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
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Used sails that fit the CS 36 MERLIN
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