Bavaria Cruiser 35 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bavaria Cruiser 35 was born from a period of consistent innovation at Bavaria Yachts, with its production run spanning from 2009 to 2010. During this era, the German builder, under the guidance of founders Winfried Herrmann and Josef Meltl, continued its pioneering adoption of assembly-line production methods to deliver high-quality, series-produced yachts to a broader audience. J&J Design, the naval architecture firm behind the Cruiser 35, is well-regarded for its extensive experience in engineering high-volume production sail and powerboats, a philosophy that aligns perfectly with Bavaria's manufacturing ethos. The design objectives for the Cruiser 35 focused on practical functionality, comfortable living spaces, and reliable performance, incorporating clever details above and below deck—hallmarks of Bavaria's overarching design philosophy. The Cruiser 35 was notably introduced as a three-cabin version, a characteristic that defined its market appeal and offered a fresh interior design for its time. Owners could also opt for a shallow keel variant, reducing the draft from the standard 6.33 feet to 5.15 feet, alongside an optional engine upgrade for increased power.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bavaria Cruiser 35, with its fractional sloop rig, is designed to offer a balanced and manageable sailing experience. The fractional rig is particularly advantageous for cruisers and racers alike, as it allows for smaller headsails, which in turn facilitates easier tacking. Analyzing its core specifications reveals more about its expected behavior on the water. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.49, the Cruiser 35 suggests capable performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions, allowing it to move efficiently even when breezes are gentle.

The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) stands at about 0.252. While this indicates a moderate level of stiffness, it is consistent with a design prioritizing comfort and internal volume over extreme performance in heavy airs. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 207.56 places the Cruiser 35 firmly in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. This translates to a boat that offers a comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than a light, nimble feel, ensuring stability for extended passages. Overall, the Bavaria Cruiser 35 aims to strike a balance, offering a rewarding sailing experience that is both responsive and forgiving, designed for performance while boasting comfort.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bavaria Cruiser 35 is notable for its spaciousness and practical layout, designed to maximize liveability for its length. With a maximum headroom of 6.13 feet, the cabin feels airy and accommodating. The vessel typically features a generous three-cabin configuration, which is a significant advantage for a boat of its size, allowing for comfortable sleeping arrangements for multiple guests or a larger family.

Central to the interior is a well-appointed salon, providing ample seating and dining space. The galley is designed for functionality, while the head compartment typically includes a shower and is equipped with a hot water heater, enhancing onboard convenience. Owners frequently highlight the roomy cockpit and interior, often noting its comparability to larger vessels, underscoring the efficient use of space by J&J Design. Bavaria's general commitment to "well-thought-out room layout providing generous space" and "plenty of storage space" is evident throughout the Cruiser 35, contributing to its appeal as a liveable cruising platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bavaria Cruiser 35 generally express high satisfaction, praising its overall yacht quality and the positive experiences associated with its charter company and pick-up processes, leading to an "Excellent" rating of 9.4 based on reviews. Many appreciate the design for comfortable weekend and coastal cruising, finding it well-suited to their needs. The boat is often seen as a reliable and accessible option, with some owners choosing multiple Bavaria models over time.

However, like many production yachts of its era, some owners have reported recurring minor issues, particularly related to leaks from original deck fittings, which can require re-bedding. While these are generally manageable, potential buyers of older or ex-charter models should be mindful of the possibility of needing to address such maintenance items, as one owner noted having to replace "virtually everything" on a used charter boat over a five-year period. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the collective sentiment underscores the Bavaria Cruiser 35 as a robust and comfortable cruising yacht that delivers on its promise of accessible and enjoyable sailing.