Nauticat 36 – Classic Finnish Motorsailer
The Nauticat 36 sits comfortably between the more compact Nauticat 33 and the larger Nauticat 38. Designed by W. Aarnipalo and built by Siltala Yachts in Finland, it offers the classic Nauticat combination of solid construction, a protected pilothouse and practical liveaboard volume in a mid-size package.
Many owners consider the 36 a sweet spot: more space and capability than the 33, yet easier to handle and berth than the 38.
Nauticat 36 Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Designer | W. Aarnipalo |
| Builder | Siltala Yachts, Finland |
| Production period | Early 1980s onwards |
| LOA | Approx. 10.85 – 11.00 m (35.6 – 36 ft) |
| Beam | Approx. 3.30 m (10.8 ft) |
| Draft | Approx. 1.60 – 1.70 m |
| Displacement | Approx. 8,000 – 9,400 kg |
| Rig | Masthead ketch |
| Typical engine | Ford diesel, around 80–90 hp |
| Hull type | Long keel / semi-long keel |
Exact figures vary slightly between individual boats and production years, but the overall character remains consistent: a heavy, sea-kindly motorsailer built for comfort and reliability.
Position in the Nauticat Range
- Smaller and more affordable than our own Nauticat 38
- Larger and more spacious than the Nauticat 33
- Shares the same Finnish design philosophy: protected pilothouse, solid construction and a practical layout for living aboard
The Nauticat 36 is often described as a good balance for couples who want more room than the 33 without moving up to the size and cost of the 38.
Layout and Liveaboard Potential
Typical layout includes:
- Forward cabin
- Saloon and galley
- Protected pilothouse with inside helm
- Aft cabin
The pilothouse remains one of the strongest features, giving excellent protection and visibility in poor weather. Combined with solid tank capacity and storage, the Nauticat 36 works well as a full-time or long-term liveaboard.
How These Boats Perform
Although we sail a Nauticat 38, the general behaviour of the classic Nauticat motorsailers is very similar across the range. These videos give a realistic impression of what to expect:
Seaworthiness in real conditions
Sailing performance of a heavy motorsailer
Solo sailing experiences
Is the Nauticat 36 a Good Choice Today?
Strengths
- Solid Finnish construction
- Protected pilothouse
- Good liveaboard volume for the length
- More space than the 33, more manageable than the 38 for many couples
- Proven long-distance capability
Points to check
- Condition of teak decks (if original)
- Engine hours and service history
- Structural condition and any previous refits
- Osmosis on older hulls
If you are considering buying or selling a Nauticat 36, we can help through our brokerage services. See Buy a Boat and Sell Your Boat.
Related Pages
The Nauticat 36 remains a practical and characterful choice for anyone looking for a classic Finnish motorsailer in a mid-size package.