1978 Islander 36
$24,850
Boat in Richmond, CA 94801 US
Built in 1978
36
1 Engine (Perkins)
36 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
With nearly 800 built, the Islander 36 is one of the most popular and beloved 36-foot sailboats ever produced - and for good reason. Renowned for its balance of performance, comfort, and durability, the 36 continues to boast one of the most active one-design fleets on the Bay. Her skeg-hung rudder and keel-stepped mast deliver a stiff, confident ride in the typical summer breezes while remaining responsive and well-mannered in light air.
CAPTAIN HOOKE stands out as a beautifully maintained example of this classic design. The current owner has invested thoughtfully in both preservation and upgrades, blending timeless Islander craftsmanship with modern ease of sailing. From her recently refinished mast and standing rigging to her newer main and roller furling jib, and beautifully redone interior cushions, this vessel is turn-key ready for her next adventure.
Boats like this don't stay on the market long-call our San Rafael office today to schedule a showing and see why "CAPTAIN HOOKE" deserves your attention!
Accommodations & Layout
Comfortable and thoughtfully designed interior with 6'4" headroom throughout:
- Forward V-berth with insert
- Head to port, with hanging locker opposite
- Salon with settees to port and starboard, and a clever folding bulkhead-mounted dinette at centerline
- Nav station aft to port with large quarter berth
- Galley opposite the nav table to starboard
Galley
Fully equipped and ready for cruising:
- Deep stainless steel sink with pressure water
- Large icebox
- Gas Systems three-burner stove with oven (LNG)
Electrical
- 110V AC / 12V DC systems
- 30-amp shore power service
Sails & Rigging
- Aluminum keel-stepped mast with double spreaders
- 1x19 stainless steel shrouds
- Aluminum boom
- Winches: Two Barient #27 self-tailing, two #32 self-tailing one and two #21s
- Newer main and roller furling jib
Deck & Hull
- Hand-laid FRP hull with cored decks
- Lead fin keel and spade rudder
- Last hauled and bottom painted: June 2018 w quarterly dive service
- #20 Bruce anchor on bow roller with chain and line rode
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1/30/26 | Initial price | $24,850 |
1978 Islander 36 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1978 Islander 36
Customers consistently praise the 1978 Islander 36 for its classic design, solid construction, and comfortable sailing experience
Many highlight its spacious interior layout, which offers ample room for extended cruising, making it ideal for both weekend getaways and longer voyages. Owners appreciate the boat's responsive handling and balanced performance under sail, noting that it performs well in a variety of wind conditions. The Islander 36’s reputation for durability and ease of maintenance also receives frequent commendation, as does its timeless aesthetic that continues to appeal to sailing enthusiasts. Overall, the 1978 Islander 36 is celebrated for blending traditional craftsmanship with practical features, resulting in a reliable and enjoyable sailboat.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1978 Islander 36 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and comfortable accommodations. Here are some of the pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Robust Build: The Islander 36 features a sturdy fiberglass hull and a well-designed full keel, providing excellent stability and durability.
Comfortable Interior: With spacious cabins, a functional galley, and ample headroom, it offers comfortable living quarters for extended cruising.
Good Sailing Performance: The boat handles well under sail, balancing ease of handling with respectable speed for its size.
Traditional Aesthetic: Its classic lines and teak wood finishes appeal to sailors who appreciate vintage yacht styling.
Proven Design: With a strong reputation and a loyal following, parts and community support are relatively accessible.
Cons
Heavier Displacement: Compared to modern designs, the Islander 36 is on the heavier side, which can affect light wind performance.
Older Systems: As a boat built in 1978, many original systems such as plumbing, electrical, and rigging may require upgrades or maintenance.
Limited Interior Volume: While comfortable, the interior space is more compact than newer models, which might feel cramped for larger crews.
Maintenance Needs: The teak and older materials demand regular upkeep to maintain their appearance and function.
Less Modern Amenities: Lacking some contemporary cruising conveniences, it may require retrofitting for those seeking modern comfort features.
Made For
The 1978 Islander 36 is ideal for sailors seeking a classic, reliable cruiser with solid construction and timeless design. It is perfect for those who appreciate comfortable coastal cruising, weekend getaways, or longer passages, offering a spacious interior and stable sailing performance. Whether you're an experienced sailor looking for a proven vessel or a couple seeking a dependable liveaboard cruiser, the Islander 36 combines traditional craftsmanship with practical features to meet a variety of sailing lifestyles.
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Rubicon Yachts about 1978 Islander 36
3300 Powell Street, Suite 105, Emeryville, CA, 94608
Contact Rubicon Yachts
3300 Powell Street, Suite 105, Emeryville, CA, 94608
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