Nimbus 42 vs Stratus 36
How do the Nimbus 42 and Stratus 36 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Nimbus 42 | Nimbus 42 | Stratus 36 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 41.4 ft12.62 m | 35.2 ft10.72 m |
| Waterline length | 34.2 ft10.42 m | 27.2 ft8.30 m |
| Beam | 12.5 ft3.81 m | 10.8 ft3.30 m |
| Draft | 5.8 ft1.78 m | 5.9 ft1.80 m |
| Displacement | 23,325 lb10,580 kg | 11,466 lb5,201 kg |
| Ballast | 10,000 lb4,536 kg | 4,960 lb2,250 kg |
| Sail area | 854 ft²79.3 m² | 506 ft²47.0 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.74 | 15.92 |
| Displacement / Length | 261 | 253 |
| Comfort ratio | 34.3 | 25.1 |
| Capsize screening | 1.75 | 1.92 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.8 | 7.0 |
Nimbus 42 vs Stratus 36: the short version
- The Nimbus 42 is the larger boat at 41.4 ft12.62 m LOA versus 35.2 ft10.72 m for the Stratus 36.
- The Nimbus 42 is heavier, displacing about 103% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Nimbus 42 carries the more powerful rig (16.7 vs 15.9), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Nimbus 42 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Nimbus 42 rates better for offshore work (1.75 vs 1.92).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.