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29data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this HUSTLER 36 buyer’s report
HUSTLER 36

HUSTLER 36

Vervale Yachts· Design: Stephen Jones
1979–198110 built
$2.2K – $5.8K est. annual maintenance
Racer/CruisermonoFractional SloopFin
IOR 3/4 ton

Specifications

Hull

LOA36 ft
LWL28.5 ft
Beam12.25 ft
Draft6.25 ft
Displacement8,500 lb
Ballast3,949.9 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL7.2 kn

Rig & Sails

Iforetriangle height39.5 ft
Jforetriangle base11.8 ft
Pmainsail luff41.76 ft
Emainsail foot15.93 ft
FLforestay11.8 ft
Mainsail592.3 sq ft
Jib (100%)233.1 sq ft
Spinnaker396.2 sq ft

About the HUSTLER 36

IOR 3/4 ton racer. Based on 'Silver Shadow' (1978?). Also sold as OYSTER 35 SJ.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Hustler 36 is a rare, performance-oriented cruiser designed by Stephen Jones and built by Vervale Yachts between 1979 and 1981, with only 10 hulls produced. Its lightweight displacement of 8500.0 lb and high sail area-to-displacement ratio of 21.81 reflect a design prioritizing speed and handling over heavy offshore comfort.

Best for:
This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and short-handed sailors who value responsive handling and speed, as evidenced by the high frequency of single-handed or couple-oriented upgrades like solar panels and efficient galley equipment.
Bluewater capability:
With a capsize ratio of 2.4 and a comfort ratio of 15.19, the Hustler 36 is better suited for coastal cruising than extended bluewater passages, as its light displacement and narrow beam may result in a motion too lively for heavy offshore conditions.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include the O'Day 36 and Pearson 36 from the same era, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and fin keels, though the Hustler distinguishes itself with a significantly lower displacement and higher performance metrics.

Performance

Comfort15.2
Capsize2.40
SA/Disp21.8
Disp/Len164
Bal/Disp46.5

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the HUSTLER 36 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 36ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$2.2K – $5.8K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

10 reported issues across 7 systems for the HUSTLER 36, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

4 critical2 major4 minor
Rigging2Deck2Rudder2Engine1Hull1Keel1Structural1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a HUSTLER 36? 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 10 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

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Which engine powers your HUSTLER 36?

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Used sails that fit the HUSTLER 36

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…