2
« on: February 15, 2023, 02:03:11 PM »
Jay,
Welcome to the group. I have had my 36-2 since 2018 and sail on Lake Michigan. I went from a Paceship PY26 to the 36-2. Was a big jump and took quite some time to get used to the extra 10 feet of length and 3 feet of beam while docking. I absolutely love the 36-2, as does anyone that comes aboard.
I used to singlehand my PY26 quite a bit, as it was very easy to maneuver with the transom hung, tiller controlled rudder and all lines led aft. However the rudder placement on the 36-2 is well aft and makes it quite maneuverable as well. Additionally all of my lines are led aft as well. The only issue I have with singlehanding the 36-2 is that all winches are forward of the helm, and to move forward, you have to step up on the seat to get around the wheel. Autopilot is a must!
One thing I had to learn with the 36-2 is how to use spring lines when leaving and returning to the slip. On my PY26, I had a continuous spring line from the bow to the stern that I could easily jump onto the dock and control both the bow and the stern. Not going to happen with the 36-2. At 15,000 lbs displacement, you are not going to be able to just grab a dock line and control the boat.
Overall I am very satisfied with the 36-2 and hope to do some singlehanded racing soon. I have to get a new below deck autopilot though, as the wheel pilot is at it's upper limits with the 15,000 lb displacement and has problems steering the boat in any type of weather. Does OK for calm motoring, but would not trust it while doing any sort of distance singlehanded.
I hope this helps.
Good luck with your search.
Steve