CS 34 vs CS 36 Merlin
How do the CS 34 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 34 | CS 34 | CS 36 Merlin | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 33.5 ft10.21 m | 36.0 ft10.97 m |
| Waterline length | 27.7 ft8.43 m | 29.2 ft8.89 m |
| Beam | 11.3 ft3.43 m | 11.5 ft3.51 m |
| Draft | 6.3 ft1.91 m | 6.3 ft1.91 m |
| Displacement | 10,500 lb4,763 kg | 13,000 lb5,897 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 5,590 lb2,536 kg |
| Sail area | 533 ft²49.5 m² | 608 ft²56.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.79 | 17.60 |
| Displacement / Length | 221 | 234 |
| Comfort ratio | 22.0 | 24.9 |
| Capsize screening | 2.06 | 1.96 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.0 | 7.2 |
CS 34 vs CS 36 Merlin: the short version
- The CS 36 Merlin is the larger boat at 36.0 ft10.97 m LOA versus 33.5 ft10.21 m for the CS 34.
- The CS 36 Merlin is heavier, displacing about 24% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the CS 34 carries the more powerful rig (17.8 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 2.06).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.