Linjett 36: The sporty Swedish yacht put through its paces – the test video

The Linjett 36 marks a certain change of direction for the long-established Swedish shipyard Rosättra Båtvarv. Earlier Linjett models were rather slender, comparatively delicate and quite demanding to sail. The new generation, by contrast, offers significantly more space and comfort, whilst also being easier to handle. However, the brand’s sporty character is by no means to be compromised.

We were able to put this balancing act to the test at length whilst trialling the new Linjett 36 in the Stockholm archipelago. The conditions were simply ideal for this: a cold and strong northerly wind was blowing through the archipelago, with frequent shifts in wind direction and strong gusts creating constantly changing conditions. Both the boat and the crew were put to the test as a result.

It was precisely here that the new Swedish yacht demonstrated one of its greatest strengths. The Linjett 36 remains remarkably docile even under considerable pressure and offers a high degree of control at all times. This is particularly true of the rudder. The single, deep-reaching blade provides plenty of grip and very direct feedback. If the flow around the rudder approaches stall, this is signalled early on by slight vibrations in the wheels. This gives the helmsman clear feedback even before the yacht could lose control of the rudder.

Fast under the gennaker, strong on the upwind leg

The Linjett 36’s potential is particularly impressive under a gennaker. In a brisk breeze, the boat quickly accelerated to 7.5 to 8 knots, and in stronger gusts it went considerably faster still. Despite the speed, the yacht remained under control at all times. Even with plenty of pressure on the sail, it could be eased off cleanly without the rudder losing its effectiveness.

• The review of the Linjett 36 on YACHT online – Part 1
• Part 2: Everything below deck

The Linjett 36 performs just as impressively on a beam reach. In strong winds and with the mainsail reefed, it sailed between 5.7 and 6.2 knots close-hauled during the test. The tacking angles were around 80 degrees. What is particularly remarkable is just how close to the wind this Swedish yacht can be sailed, despite its hull being significantly more voluminous than that of earlier Linjett models. Even in choppy seas, the boat ploughs towards the wind with astonishing composure.

Sophisticated lightweight construction from Sweden

The excellent sailing characteristics are also a result of the sophisticated construction. For the hull, Rosättra uses a lightweight foam sandwich structure produced using vacuum infusion. Precisely pre-milled foam cores help to keep the resin content – and therefore the weight – low. The forces from the rig and keel are transferred into the hull via a solid GRP keel assembly.

The shipyard has also opted for a robust solution for the keel. The lead keel is not simply bolted flat against the hull, but sits on a moulded GRP stub. This is intended to ensure that the forces generated in the event of a grounding are better transferred into the hull structure. Overall, this construction method combines low weight with high standards of strength and workmanship.

Another typical Linjett feature is its design, which is consistently geared towards small crews and single-handed sailors. The main lines are routed right up to the helm stations. This means that sheets, halyards, reefing lines and trimmings can be operated without the helmsman having to leave their station. Whilst this does result in quite a lot of rope in the aft cockpit, it does allow for highly focused operation.

The second part of our video presentation will show you what it’s like below deck, how the Linjett 36 is fitted out and the level of comfort it offers.

Technical specifications for the Linjett 36:

• Designer: Linjett Design Team
• CE design category: A
• Hull length: 11.00 m
• Overall length including bowsprit: 11.50 m
• Length at the waterline: 10.20 m
• Width: 3.66 m
• Draught/alternative: 1.95 / 1.80 m
• Mast height above the waterline: 17.50 m
• Weight: 6.8 tonnes
• Ballast/percentage: 2.85 t / 42 per cent
• Mainsail: 41.9 m²
• Furling genoa (150 per cent): 42 m²
• Engine (Yanmar): 29 kW/40 PS, Saildrive
• Fuel tank: 150 litres
• Fresh water tank (2): 290 l
• Waste tank: 105 l