CS 27 vs CS 36 Merlin
How do the CS 27 and CS 36 Merlin compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
CS 27 
CS 36 Merlin | CS 27 | CS 36 Merlin | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 27.0 ft8.23 m | 36.0 ft10.97 m |
| Waterline length | 23.9 ft7.29 m | 29.2 ft8.89 m |
| Beam | 9.3 ft2.84 m | 11.5 ft3.51 m |
| Draft | 5.2 ft1.58 m | 6.3 ft1.91 m |
| Displacement | 6,100 lb2,767 kg | 13,000 lb5,897 kg |
| Ballast | 2,400 lb1,089 kg | 5,590 lb2,536 kg |
| Sail area | 341 ft²31.7 m² | 608 ft²56.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.34 | 17.60 |
| Displacement / Length | 199 | 234 |
| Comfort ratio | 19.4 | 24.9 |
| Capsize screening | 2.04 | 1.96 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 7.2 |
CS 27 vs CS 36 Merlin: the short version
- The CS 36 Merlin is the larger boat at 36.0 ft10.97 m LOA versus 27.0 ft8.23 m for the CS 27.
- The CS 36 Merlin is heavier, displacing about 113% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the CS 36 Merlin carries the more powerful rig (17.6 vs 16.3), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The CS 36 Merlin scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the CS 36 Merlin rates better for offshore work (1.96 vs 2.04).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.