We presented the big sister in issue 12/2014. We find out how the smaller version - the latest Leader 36 model - performs on the Mediterranean off Cannes. It is available in two versions: as an open or with a hardtop, which Jeanneau calls a Sporttop. In terms of shape, the boat is a sporty day cruiser with two cabins plus a bathroom with toilet room below deck. In addition to the Sporttop, the black or silver painted drives at the stern are a distinguishing feature. There are either two MerCruisers or two Volvo Penta engines in the engine compartment, which burn petrol or diesel. We drive the boat with two Volvo Penta D4-300 diesels and Duoprop Z drives.
Driving and manoeuvring
Two engines mean manoeuvrable behaviour at slow speed, mooring and casting off manoeuvres are easy. But with a joystick plus bow thruster (both extra) it works better. So that the waves generated by the boat do not disturb us, we sail the slow passages at a maximum of 7 knots. With the drives fully trimmed and the trim tabs in the zero position, the foredeck of the Leader 36 rises just in front of your nose during the transition from displacement to planing speed. At full throttle, we measured a maximum of 3600 rpm, one hundred revolutions more than permitted - which is appropriate given the boat's low load. The maximum speed logged on the GPS is just under 36 knots and the sound pressure level meter shows a maximum of 85 dB/A. For the lowest planing speed, both engines should not turn below 2400 rpm.
After analysing our measurement data, we determine speeds of 2500 rpm or 22 knots as the economical range at planing speed, at which one tank filling is sufficient for a theoretical range of 184 nm plus 15% reserve. And at full throttle, you should look for a bunker station after about 144 nm so that the reserve is maintained. If you want to go further, you have to sail as a displacer. This means that the test boat falls through the range grid, 270 nm plus reserve should be enough at planing speed.
When approaching with the drives fully engaged, a spiral is travelled that closes to a full circle after a diameter of around 100 m. When cornering to port, it is advisable to have the electric sunroof open for lateral visibility, otherwise the manoeuvre becomes a blind flight. When cornering over starboard, you only need to duck slightly at the driving position.
Rough water and wind forces of up to five Beaufort make the waves grow to over a metre in height in places, but the hull copes well with this. And if you adjust to the ride a little, it also becomes comfortable. It is normal for the wind and waves to be covered in spray, which is no problem for the two windscreen wipers. At most, the skipper might have difficulties with visibility due to the modest wiper fields.
The extreme manoeuvres at full speed are all very moderate, as the turning angle of both drives is dominated by rpm and speed. This means that there are no tight turns under 100 metres in diameter at full throttle. And if you turn the rudder abruptly, as in the 180° turns or when tearing away, it takes just under a second for the drives to follow. The result is always a sweeping curve. On the imaginary slalom course, the test boat is made to swing safely along its longitudinal axis.
The skipper sits on a non-adjustable bench seat whose seat cushions can be partially folded up. This, together with a folding board in the footwell, favours driving in a standing position. The upholstery is criticised for being too soft. Apart from the annoying reflections of the light-coloured background in the windows, visibility is good from the driving position. The instruments are easy to see when seated, but you have to stretch to read the compass. Controls and switches are mounted within an acceptable range. The front passenger sits vis-á-vis and can easily hold on to a handle.
Engine, tank, electrics
To access the technology and engines, the rear section of the U-shaped cockpit bench seat, which doubles as a sun lounger, has to be folded up at the touch of a button. The space available for servicing and inspection in the engine compartment is acceptable. Both engines are supplied from one tank and the fuel taps can be closed in the underfloor cabin. The main battery switch and thermal fuses are also located here. The main battery switch at the foot end of the front bunk and the fuses behind a flap at the head end on the outer wall.
Security
The good and safe driving characteristics score points here. The lack of water alarm sensors on both fuel pre-filters, which make less sense, is criticised. The number and positioning of the grab handles and handrails seems appropriate. We rate a manual bilge pump alongside the electric one as positive. The outboard self-draining cockpit and the extinguishing system in the engine compartment are also positive features. The side decks harmonise with the railing and the folding bathing ladder and grab handle at the stern are pleasing. The latter also applies to the installations: In terms of workmanship, we particularly dislike an angular cut-out at the entrance, but the rest is mostly fine.
Living cockpit and equipment
Someone has put a lot of thought into the layout of the saloon and forward cabin and combined the two in one room. The forward cabin and seating area with table are separated from the galley and bathroom by a door. This significantly increases the space in the forward cabin, and the fact that the berth can be extended by adding cushions creates valuable space. Changing headroom is a feature of the underfloor cabin, as is the bench seat on the port side and the two single berths opposite, which can be converted into a double berth using inserts. There is no lack of storage space or room in either cabin. Apart from the small amount of storage space, the wet room with shower and WC fits perfectly.
The cockpit is dominated at the front by the driving position to starboard and the co-driver's seat opposite with a small divan to the side. The space aft is taken up by the U-shaped bench seat and the table. The rear bench is part of the sun lounger, with the backrest folded forwards to serve as a headrest. Storage space? Enough.
The list of accessories includes equipment that is designed for comfort: for example, tarpaulins, shore connection, the shower in the bathroom or the trim tabs. Almost everything needed for anchoring is included as standard, such as the six mooring cleats or the rubbing strake. We are missing the navigation lights that are approved in Germany, which is something we devalue.
Conclusion
There is little to criticise about the overall finish. The untreated plastic cut edges and the overly angular cut-out at the cabin entrance, which can cause you to bump your head, are criticised, which is why we devalue the plastic finish. In terms of handling characteristics, the boat scores well across the board and is also suitable for beginners. An all-round boat where almost everything fits.
Data sheet: Jeanneau Leader 36 Sporttop
Shipyard: Jeanneau
Type designation: Jeanneau Leader 36 Sporttop
CE category: B - Outside coastal waters
Material of hull and deck: Plastic
Length: 11,47 m
Width: 3,62 m
Displacement: 6,62 t
Price: 249.947,00 €
