Columbia 32 vs Columbia 36
How do the Columbia 32 and Columbia 36 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Columbia 32 | Columbia 32 | Columbia 36 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 32.1 ft9.78 m | 35.8 ft10.90 m |
| Waterline length | 26.5 ft8.08 m | 27.8 ft8.46 m |
| Beam | 9.5 ft2.90 m | 10.5 ft3.20 m |
| Draft | 5.5 ft1.68 m | 5.4 ft1.65 m |
| Displacement | 9,450 lb4,286 kg | 12,000 lb5,443 kg |
| Ballast | 4,050 lb1,837 kg | 5,000 lb2,268 kg |
| Sail area | 515 ft²47.8 m² | 556 ft²51.7 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.43 | 16.97 |
| Displacement / Length | 227 | 251 |
| Comfort ratio | 25.8 | 26.8 |
| Capsize screening | 1.80 | 1.83 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.9 | 7.1 |
Columbia 32 vs Columbia 36: the short version
- The Columbia 36 is the larger boat at 35.8 ft10.90 m LOA versus 32.1 ft9.78 m for the Columbia 32.
- The Columbia 36 is heavier, displacing about 27% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Columbia 32 carries the more powerful rig (18.4 vs 17.0), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Columbia 36 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Columbia 32 rates better for offshore work (1.80 vs 1.83).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.