Bandholm 35 Information, Review, Specs

Built in the picturesque town of Bandholm, Denmark, by Bandholm Yachts, the 35-foot model quickly established itself as a capable and stable vessel. Its enduring reputation stems from the company's steadfast commitment to craftsmanship and durable performance, hallmarks that characterize many of Knud Olsen's designs.

History and Design

The Bandholm 35 began production in 1979, continuing into the late 1980s, a period when fiberglass had become the dominant material for yacht construction, allowing for consistent quality and enhanced durability. Designed by Knud Olsen, a pivotal figure in Bandholm Yachts' history, the vessel reflects his overarching philosophy emphasizing practical sailing, robust construction, and excellent stability. The builder's ethos, established by Olsen in 1961, focused on creating yachts known for their "fine sailing characteristics and high-quality craftsmanship."

The Bandholm 35 features a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for offering a good balance of maneuverability and directional stability. While the core design remained consistent, variations such as the "Bandholm 35 SD," "Bandholm 35 DD," and a "Low rig" version indicate that the builder offered different configurations to cater to various sailing preferences and conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bandholm 35 is designed as a capable cruiser, and its specifications reflect a balanced approach to sailing performance. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 43.1%, the boat exhibits significant stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its displacement-to-length ratio of around 299.6 places it in the medium-heavy cruiser category, suggesting a solid and reassuring feel rather than a light, nimble racer.

The sail area to displacement ratio of 17.31 indicates a moderate sail plan, suggesting that while not a dedicated light-air performer, the Bandholm 35 is well-balanced for a variety of conditions, offering reliable progress without being overly tender. Owners and reviewers often praise the Bandholm 35 for its solid hull and fine sailing characteristics, confirming its suitability for both shorter trips and longer voyages. With a theoretical hull speed of 6.93 knots, she is capable of efficient passage making.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bandholm 35 is typically appointed with teak joinery, a material favored for its durability and classic marine aesthetic. This choice aligns with Bandholm Yachts' reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. The layout is designed to maximize living space and comfort for extended cruising.

Commonly equipped with between six to eight berths, the Bandholm 35 generally features a traditional interior arrangement that includes a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a comfortable salon with seating and a dining area, and a functional galley. Storage is ample throughout the boat, catering to the needs of cruisers. The vessel also comes equipped with a water capacity of 32 gallons and a fuel capacity of 32 gallons, providing sufficient endurance for multi-day trips. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design typically prioritizes livability below decks, a crucial aspect for a cruising yacht of this size.