CS 33 vs CS 36 Merlin
How do the CS 33 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 33 
CS 36 Merlin | CS 33 | CS 36 Merlin | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 32.7 ft9.96 m | 36.0 ft10.97 m |
| Waterline length | 26.4 ft8.05 m | 29.2 ft8.89 m |
| Beam | 10.7 ft3.25 m | 11.5 ft3.51 m |
| Draft | 5.8 ft1.77 m | 6.3 ft1.91 m |
| Displacement | 10,000 lb4,536 kg | 13,000 lb5,897 kg |
| Ballast | 4,250 lb1,928 kg | 5,590 lb2,536 kg |
| Sail area | 503 ft²46.7 m² | 608 ft²56.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.34 | 17.60 |
| Displacement / Length | 242 | 234 |
| Comfort ratio | 23.3 | 24.9 |
| Capsize screening | 1.98 | 1.96 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.9 | 7.2 |
CS 33 vs CS 36 Merlin: the short version
- The CS 36 Merlin is the larger boat at 36.0 ft10.97 m LOA versus 32.7 ft9.96 m for the CS 33.
- The CS 36 Merlin is heavier, displacing about 30% 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 17.3), 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 1.98).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.