Ohlson 36 Yawl

Description

The Ohlson 36 Yawl is a classic Swedish wooden cruiser-racer designed by Einar Ohlson (of the Ohlson brothers, prominent Swedish naval architects in the mid-20th century known for elegant, seaworthy designs). Built by Ohlson Brothers (Bröderna Ohlson) in Gothenburg/Västra Frölunda, Sweden, from 1958 to the mid-1960s, it was part of a limited production series (approximately 140–150 hulls total for the Ohlson 36 class across yards like Svinevikens Båtvarv, Bröderna Gustavsson, and Bröderna Martinsson on Orust island, with nearly all exported to the US). The yawl rig variant (main + small mizzen) was offered for balanced handling, easier shorthanded sailing in heavy weather, and motorsailing versatility—often alongside the sloop version. Construction used high-quality mahogany planking on laminated oak frames (carvel planked, riveted copper nails, waterproof glue), with some export hulls marketed as the Ohlson 35 in the US by George O'Day Associates. It's celebrated for seaworthiness, comfort, and speed—"the racing machine" that built the Ohlson international reputation—with stable motion in rough conditions, generous sail plan for light-air excellence, and practical interior (typically 4–6 berths with V-forward, settees, galley, heads, storage for coastal/offshore cruising). Many examples have proven themselves in offshore events and remain cherished/restored in classic yacht circles.