1985 Grand Banks 36 Classic “Sweet Life”

• Prior to 2021: Ford Lehman SP135 engines overhauled; fuel tanks and fuel-system piping/filtration replaced; electrical system overhauled; Garmin navigation, Auto Helm and HF radios installed.
• 2022: New Dometic 16K and 10K BTU A/C systems installed.
• 2022: Hull bottom blisters repaired and bottom painted.
• 2022: Starboard cutlass bearing replaced; toe-rail gelcoat repaired and painted.
• 2022: Northern Lights 6 kW generator serviced, including fuel filters, oil and oil filter.
• 2023: Port transmission output-shaft seals repaired.
• 2023: Northern Lights generator exhaust elbow and gasket replaced; cooling system flushed and generator load-tested.
• 2023: Two new 8D main batteries installed.
• 2024: Deck painted; engine oil changed on both engines.
• 2025: Topsides painted; forward hatch rebuilt; new Bimini top installed.
• 2025: Engine and generator oil changed.
• 2026: Northern Lights generator battery replaced and Racor filters replaced for both engines and generator.
• 2026: Starboard transmission output flange and seals replaced.
• 2026: Engine oil changed on both engines; topside seat cushions replaced.
• 2026: Rail covers updated and seat covers replaced; windlass anchor mount painted.
• 2026: Aft head replaced with Jabsco Quiet Flush E2 Salt head

The inviting salon features a comfortable port-side settee, built-in convertible dinette, dry bar and entertainment center, creating an excellent space for relaxing or entertaining aboard. Forward to port, the well-appointed galley includes a Princess three-burner LPG stove, Dometic refrigerator and freezer, single-basin sink and convenient storage. The practical layout keeps the galley connected to the salon while maintaining excellent separation from the sleeping accommodations.

Forward Stateroom: The comfortable forward stateroom offers a practical cruising layout with a v-berth, ample storage, cedar-lined hanging locker, and convenient access to the forward head. An overhead hatch provides natural light and ventilation, making this a comfortable and functional guest or family cabin.

Aft Stateroom: The aft stateroom provides comfortable accommodations with a double berth to starboard and a single berth to port, complemented by built-in storage and a cedar-lined hanging locker. Added conveniences are the aft private head and the private aft exit door providing direct access to the aft deck.

Heads: Two well-appointed heads provide convenient accommodations for extended cruising, with each offering a marine electric toilet, vanity with sink and storage, and dedicated shower space. The two-head layout provides privacy and convenience for both the forward and aft staterooms

Dual-helm Garmin navigation package with Garmin GPSMAP 7212 and 6208 multifunction displays, Garmin radar and Garmin GHP 20 autopilot. Two Icom IC-M424 VHF radios at both helms with FCC ship-station licenses. 5" Danforth compass and integrated Garmin depth/fishfinder capability.

Twin 135 HP Ford Lehman SP135 diesels, overhauled in 2014/15, with approximately 3431 hours port and 3564 hours starboard. Borg Warner 2.47:1 transmissions with extensive recent service, including a complete starboard output-flange and seal repair in 2026 and port transmission seal work in 2023. Four aluminum diesel tanks replaced in 2014 provide approximately 400 gallons of fuel capacity. Northern Lights 6 kW generator with documented service, exhaust elbow replacement and cooling-system flush. Two new Dometic A/C systems installed in 2022. Recent maintenance also includes new main batteries, generator battery, Racor filters, engine oil services and generator service.

The spacious aft deck and classic Grand Banks flybridge provide excellent outdoor living and entertaining areas. Features include an upper helm station with Garmin electronics, Icom VHF, comfortable helm seating, stainless-steel bow and safety rails, electric windlass with bow plow anchor and ground tackle, forward deck hatch, aft cockpit seating, swim platform and boarding ladder. A new Bimini top was installed in 2025, topside seat cushions were replaced in 2026, and the windlass anchor mount was recently painted. The deck was painted in 2024 and topsides were painted in 2025.

I have worked with numerous Grand Banks of this vintage, and “Sweet Life” is one of the most beautiful and well-kept examples I have seen. What stands out is not simply her classic Grand Banks appearance, but the care that has gone into maintaining and improving her over the years. She retains the timeless character that makes these boats so desirable, while benefiting from significant mechanical, electrical, cosmetic and equipment upgrades.

She is the kind of boat that makes you want to go cruising. The original teak flybridge, spacious outdoor living areas, comfortable accommodations and traditional Grand Banks layout create the relaxed atmosphere that has made these yachts so enduringly popular. The fiberglass-resurfaced main decks add durability while preserving the classic look and feel of this Grand Banks.

In my opinion, “Sweet Life” represents an excellent opportunity for someone looking for a Grand Banks 36 that has been genuinely cared for and continually improved. She has the look, feel and proven cruising character of a classic Grand Banks, combined with a substantial history of investment and maintenance.