Aerodyne 35 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Aerodyne 35 commenced in the year 2000, reflecting Aerodyne Yachts' commitment to producing yachts that excel in both speed and cruising comfort. The design philosophy of Rodger Martin, who also designed other notable Aerodyne models like the Aerodyne 38, consistently focused on creating fast-sailing boats, encompassing everything from dedicated raceboats to comfortable, fast cruisers. Aerodyne Yachts, based in Hytölä, Finland, has built a reputation for its commitment to advanced construction techniques, including the use of heat-cured epoxy in some of its larger models, which results in lighter, stiffer, and faster hulls.

The Aerodyne 35, also known as the South 35, was conceived with versatility in mind. A notable feature is the option for water ballast, offering an additional 1763 lbs (800 kgs) to enhance stability when desired. Furthermore, the boat was available with a number of different rig configurations, allowing owners to tailor its performance characteristics to their specific sailing preferences or racing needs. The hull design is described as being "more spacy" than 66% of similar sailboats, suggesting that the designer prioritized interior volume alongside performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Aerodyne 35 boasts impressive performance characteristics derived from its carefully calculated design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 29.19, the vessel is clearly designed for spirited performance, particularly excelling in light-air conditions where its expansive sail plan can efficiently harness minimal wind. This high ratio is indicative of a boat capable of quick acceleration and lively sailing.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 76.69, further confirms its identity as a very light displacement boat for its length. This low D/L contributes significantly to its agility and speed, allowing it to plane or semi-plane in suitable conditions. The ballast to displacement (B/D) ratio stands at approximately 31.2%. While this figure might appear moderate compared to heavily ballasted cruisers, the Aerodyne 35's design incorporates a bulb keel and dual rudders, which contribute to its stability and control. The optional water ballast system also provides a means to significantly increase its stability for more demanding conditions or competitive sailing. The combination of a fractional sloop rig, a fin keel with a bulb, and dual rudders suggests a boat that is responsive and well-balanced at the helm, promising an engaging sailing experience across various points of sail.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Aerodyne 35 are not extensively documented in available public reviews, Aerodyne Yachts generally aims to combine top performance with comfortable below-deck amenities for cruising. Given its "more spacy" hull design compared to many contemporaries, it is reasonable to infer that the Aerodyne 35 offers a well-appointed interior for a performance cruiser of its size.

Typically, a boat of this length (35.5 feet LOA) would feature a conventional layout comprising a forward V-berth cabin, an enclosed head, a main salon with settees that can double as berths, a functional galley, and potentially a quarter berth or aft cabin. Owners can expect the interior to be finished with a balance of practical, durable materials suitable for performance sailing, complemented by thoughtful joinery and finishes that align with Aerodyne's reputation for quality construction. Storage solutions would likely be integrated throughout the vessel to accommodate provisions and gear for extended cruising.