US 35 Information, Review, Specs

The Bayliner US 35 began its production run in 1979. It is notable for being a direct descendant of the Cooper 353, a Canadian-built cruiser designed by the acclaimed naval architect Stan Huntingford. Huntingford, known for designing capable cruisers, intended the Cooper 353, and by extension the US 35, for coastal cruising, particularly in regions like the Pacific Northwest. Bayliner acquired the molds for the Cooper 353, leading to the creation of the US 35 under their US Yachts brand.

Bayliner's foray into sailboats in the 1970s, including the establishment of its Buccaneer Yachts and US Yachts divisions, was partly a response to the fuel crisis, which made sailing a more attractive option for consumers. Source from initial During this period, Bayliner's manufacturing ethos, as described in the company's history, focused on providing accessible, value-driven vessels that emphasized interior comfort and family-friendly layouts. Source from initial While Bayliner sometimes "splashed" (copied) designs from other builders, in the case of the US 35, they adopted a respected design by Stan Huntingford. Source from initial There is no indication of significant variations like MkI/MkII or tall rig/standard rig during the US 35's production run, which ended when Bayliner divested its sailboat division around 1979. Source from initial

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bayliner US 35, with a length overall of just over 35 feet and a waterline length of 28.5 feet, is categorized as a moderate displacement cruising sailboat. Her design by Stan Huntingford as a cruiser suggests a focus on comfortable, stable performance rather than outright speed.

To interpret its sailing characteristics:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D): At approximately 15.94, this ratio suggests the US 35 is not primarily a light-air performer. Boats with higher SA/D ratios (e.g., above 18) tend to accelerate quickly in light breezes. The US 35 is more likely to excel in moderate to stronger winds, where its ample sail area (reported at 561 sq ft) can drive its displacement effectively.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D): With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.396 (39.6%), the US 35 demonstrates a solid level of initial stability. This ratio, being close to 0.40, indicates a relatively stiff boat that should stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway, reducing excessive heeling.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L): The calculated D/L ratio of approximately 256 places the US 35 in the medium-heavy displacement category for cruising boats of its size. This suggests a vessel built for comfort and seaworthiness rather than ultimate speed. A moderate D/L ratio typically translates to a smoother motion offshore and the ability to carry provisions for extended cruising.

Anecdotal information about the Cooper 353, from which the US 35 is derived, suggests it was designed for coastal cruising and to handle well in varied conditions, particularly in areas known for their robust sailing environments. Owners of similar vessels often praise their solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

The Bayliner US 35 was designed with a strong emphasis on interior comfort, reflecting Bayliner's broader philosophy during its sailboat manufacturing era. Source from initial, 13 With a maximum headroom of 6.33 feet, the interior generally provides ample space for most occupants to stand upright. While specific detailed interior layouts for the Bayliner US 35 are not widely documented, reviews and listings for its progenitor, the Cooper 353, offer insights.

The Cooper 353, and thus likely the US 35, typically features a spacious and comfortable interior, often with a generous use of teak, creating a warm and traditional ambiance. Common arrangements for a boat of this size and era would include a V-berth forward, a head compartment (often with a shower), a salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley equipped for cruising, and potentially a quarter berth or aft cabin. Many Cooper 353s, especially those configured as pilothouses, offer twin helm stations, providing all-weather cruising capability and a light-filled main salon. The design aimed to create a versatile interior suitable for liveaboard use or extended cruising. Storage is generally considered adequate for a cruising couple or small family, and ventilation would typically rely on a combination of opening ports and overhead hatches.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bayliner US 35 and its original Cooper 353 counterpart often highlight the boat's robust construction and suitability for coastal cruising. The solid fiberglass hull is generally regarded as strong and capable. Many owners appreciate the comfortable motion in a seaway, a characteristic often associated with designs by Stan Huntingford, who prioritized seaworthiness in his cruising designs. The interior space and amenities are frequently praised, aligning with Bayliner's original focus on providing family-friendly comfort. Source from initial, 7, 14 The relatively deep draft and substantial ballast contribute to the boat's stability and ability to carry sail.

Common discussions among owners sometimes revolve around the age of the original systems, such as engines, electrical wiring, and plumbing, which may require updating on boats of this vintage. While the core hull and deck are generally sound, typical maintenance items like re-bedding deck hardware or addressing minor leaks can be expected, as with any sailboat of this era. The US 35 is generally considered a good value for those seeking a well-built, comfortable cruiser with a proven design lineage.