Rustler 36

Design and Build

The Rustler Yachts Rustler 36 is one of the most respected offshore cruising yachts ever built. Designed by Holman & Pye, she has earned a global reputation as a capable and dependable bluewater cruiser, proven on countless long-distance passages.

The design combines traditional offshore security with practical sailing performance, making the Rustler 36 equally suited to extended ocean voyaging or confident coastal cruising.

‘Orions Girl’ is a well-equipped example that reflects the strengths of the design. She has been set up with a clear focus on self-sufficiency, ease of handling, and offshore readiness.

Hull and Construction

The Rustler 36 is built with a solid GRP hull and features an encapsulated long keel and keel-hung rudder. This configuration provides excellent directional stability, protection to the underwater appendages, and a forgiving motion at sea.

• GRP hull, deck and superstructure
• Encapsulated long keel
• Tiller steering
• Teak deck and teak laid cockpit
• Stainless steel stern gantry

This is a hull form designed to look after its crew, particularly when conditions become more demanding.

Rig and Sailing Configuration

‘Orions Girl’ is set up as a cutter rig with a detachable inner forestay, offering flexibility across a wide range of conditions. Sail handling has been arranged to allow efficient management from the cockpit, supporting short-handed sailing.

Recent updates include:

• Stainless steel standing rigging (2022)
• Majority of running rigging replaced (2025)
• Selden furling system (2022)
• Lazyjacks (2025)

The sail inventory is comprehensive, covering everything from light airs to heavy weather, making her well prepared for offshore passages.

Engine and Propulsion

The yacht is powered by a Yanmar 3YM30 diesel engine producing 29HP, with approximately 810 hours.

• Shaft drive with new cutlass bearing (2025)
• Brunton Autoprop
• Documented service history

This is a reliable and well-proven setup, suited to both manoeuvring and extended motoring when required.

Systems and Offshore Capability

A key strength of ‘Orions Girl’ is her level of onboard systems and independence. She has been equipped for extended off-grid cruising, with renewable energy and substantial tankage.

• Solar array on stern gantry and coachroof
• Rutland wind generator (2023)
• Hydrovane wind self-steering
• 400 litres combined fresh water capacity
• 155 litre fuel tank
• Shore power, inverter and battery charging systems

These features allow for extended periods away from marinas, supporting true bluewater use.

Navigation and Equipment

Navigation is both modern and practical, centred around a flexible digital setup:

• Panasonic Toughbook running TimeZero navigation software
• Option for cockpit-mounted display
• AIS transponder and WiFi integration
• Radar and full B&G instrument suite

This approach provides redundancy and adaptability, which is particularly valuable offshore.

Accommodation and Layout

The interior is designed for safe and comfortable living at sea, with secure movement and practical storage throughout.

• Forward double berth
• Saloon with twin berths or double conversion
• Quarter berth
• Forward heads with shower
• Sea-going galley with twin sinks and gas cooker
• Ample storage and lee cloths throughout

The layout supports both passagemaking and extended time on board.

Location and Viewing

‘Orions Girl’ is currently afloat in Plymouth Yacht Haven and available to view by prior arrangement.

For further information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Paul on 01752 260086.