CS 30 vs CS 36 Merlin
How do the CS 30 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 30 
CS 36 Merlin | CS 30 | CS 36 Merlin | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 30.0 ft9.14 m | 36.0 ft10.97 m |
| Waterline length | 25.4 ft7.75 m | 29.2 ft8.89 m |
| Beam | 10.3 ft3.12 m | 11.5 ft3.51 m |
| Draft | 5.5 ft1.68 m | 6.3 ft1.91 m |
| Displacement | 8,000 lb3,629 kg | 13,000 lb5,897 kg |
| Ballast | 3,440 lb1,560 kg | 5,590 lb2,536 kg |
| Sail area | 462 ft²42.9 m² | 608 ft²56.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.48 | 17.60 |
| Displacement / Length | 217 | 234 |
| Comfort ratio | 20.8 | 24.9 |
| Capsize screening | 2.05 | 1.96 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.8 | 7.2 |
CS 30 vs CS 36 Merlin: the short version
- The CS 36 Merlin is the larger boat at 36.0 ft10.97 m LOA versus 30.0 ft9.14 m for the CS 30.
- The CS 36 Merlin is heavier, displacing about 63% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the CS 30 carries the more powerful rig (18.5 vs 17.6), 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 2.05).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.