Bavaria 35 Exclusive Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Bavaria 35 Exclusive falls within a pivotal period for Bavaria Yachts, which, since its founding in 1978, had become known for pioneering assembly-line production methods to make yacht ownership more accessible. During the late 1990s, when the 35 Exclusive was in production, Bavaria was solidifying its reputation for robust construction and innovative serial manufacturing. The design by J&J Design aimed for a "slightly more spacy hull design", suggesting an emphasis on maximizing interior volume and comfort without compromising sailing characteristics. While specific design philosophies for this particular model are not extensively documented, it aligns with Bavaria's broader ethos of combining practical functionality with comfortable living spaces and reliable performance. There is no evidence of significant variations or MkI/MkII versions during its relatively short production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bavaria 35 Exclusive is engineered to deliver a balanced and enjoyable sailing experience. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 24.49, she is capable of performing well in light-air conditions, promising a lively feel at the helm. Her ballast to displacement ratio of about 35.3% indicates moderate initial stability, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heeling, a characteristic valued by cruising sailors. The displacement to length ratio of around 198.33 categorizes her as a light-to-moderate displacement vessel, suggesting a good turn of speed for a cruiser of her size while still offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. Equipped with a fractional rig, the Bavaria 35 Exclusive benefits from smaller headsails, which are noted to make tacking easier – a significant advantage for both casual cruisers and those sailing shorthanded. Her hull speed is calculated at 7.26 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the limited detailed information publicly available regarding the specific interior layout of the Bavaria 35 Exclusive, boats of this size from Bavaria during this era typically prioritized practical, comfortable living spaces. The design usually features a conventional layout including a forward V-berth cabin, a spacious salon often with a convertible dinette and a linear or U-shaped galley, a dedicated head compartment, and at least one aft cabin. The Bavaria 35 Exclusive boasts a generous maximum headroom of 6.07 feet (1.85 meters), contributing to a more open and comfortable feeling below deck. Bavaria yachts of this period are generally recognized for their functional interiors, featuring quality wood joinery and ample storage solutions, reflecting the builder's commitment to delivering accessible yet well-finished yachts. Original brochures indicated photos and plans of the interior, suggesting a well-thought-out arrangement.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Bavaria yachts from the late 1990s, including the 35 Exclusive, frequently praise the brand for its solid construction and robust build quality. Many describe them as well-built boats that sail effectively and offer good value for money. While general discussions about Bavaria yachts may touch upon aspects like perceived depreciation or the interior joinery compared to more bespoke brands, the collective viewpoint from owners often highlights the reliability and practical design of these vessels. Owners appreciate their straightforward systems and the comfortable motion they provide, making them suitable for extended cruising. There isn't a widespread or commonly cited recurring structural issue specifically linked to the Bavaria 35 Exclusive in public forums, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable cruiser.