Ohlson 36 Mk II

Description

The Ohlson 36 Mk II (also known as Ohlson 36 Mark II) is a classic Swedish wooden cruiser-racer designed by Einar Ohlson (of the renowned Ohlson brothers, prominent Swedish naval architects in the mid-20th century). It is an updated version of the original Ohlson 36 (introduced 1958), with the Mk II introduced in 1965 featuring refinements such as slightly increased beam for better internal volume and stability, updated frames/keel/rudder details (as shown in surviving drawings from veteranbatsarkivet.se), and minor rig/hull tweaks for improved performance and seaworthiness. Built by Ohlson Brothers (Bröderna Ohlson) in Gothenburg/Västra Frölunda, Sweden, approximately 15–20 Mk II hulls were produced (very limited run compared to earlier models; some sources note total Ohlson 36 series around 20–30 boats across variants). Construction used high-quality mahogany planking on laminated oak frames (planks full length for strength/fairness), with some export hulls in plywood or later GRP experiments. Available in sloop and yawl rigs (yawl adds a small mizzen for balance and heavy-weather ease). The design emphasizes 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).