Bristol 35.5 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Bristol 35.5 aligns with Bristol Yachts' established manufacturing ethos, which emphasized robust fiberglass construction and a commitment to producing durable, seaworthy vessels. From its inception in the mid-1960s, Bristol Yachts embraced fiberglass as a revolutionary material, becoming one of the first commercially successful production fiberglass sailboat builders in the United States. The company's focus was always on "overbuilt" boats, known for their reliability and ability to withstand the test of time.

Designed by Ted Hood, the Bristol 35.5 embodies a conservative yet effective design philosophy. Hood, a prominent naval architect, aimed for a boat that offered smooth, steady performance without prioritizing break-neck speeds. Throughout its production run, the Bristol 35.5 was offered in two primary configurations: a standard fin keel version and a keel/centerboard (CB) version, often referred to as the Bristol 35.5C. The keel/centerboard variant offered a reduced board-up draft of 3.75 feet, expanding access to shallower anchorages, while the board-down draft extended to 9.5 feet for enhanced performance to weather. This version also carried a slightly heavier ballast of 7,000 pounds compared to the fin keel's 6,500 pounds. Owners have noted that the centerboard version tends to be more lively and quicker in various air conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 35.5, with its design ratios, presents as a classic, heavy displacement cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.81 indicates a boat with moderate sail-carrying ability, suggesting steady performance in light to moderate winds and solid capability as the breeze builds. This is a characteristic of a vessel designed for comfort and stability over outright speed.

The Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.43 further underscores its stability. With over 40% of its displacement in ballast, the Bristol 35.5 is designed to be stiff and capable of standing up to significant wind, providing a reassuring motion in a seaway. Its Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of around 322 places it firmly in the category of heavier, more traditional cruisers, reinforcing its reputation for being a robust and forgiving platform.

Anecdotal reports from owners confirm these characteristics, describing the Bristol 35.5 as a boat with respectable speed across all points of sail, capable of pointing well, and generally faster than many boats of comparable displacement. Owners have praised its solid performance, even reporting comfortable and controlled sailing in challenging conditions with 35-knot winds and large seas. The boat's conservative design translates into smooth and steady handling, a desirable trait for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions for the Bristol 35.5 are not consistently documented, the interior is widely regarded as spacious and thoughtfully arranged for a vessel of its size. Descriptions frequently highlight a well-engineered fold-down table, enhancing the usability of the main salon. The typical interior arrangement includes a V-berth forward, a head, a salon area, a galley, and often quarter berths or a dedicated aft cabin depending on the specific layout variant.

The overall finish quality of Bristol boats, including the 35.5, is consistently praised, characterized by solid construction and excellent fit and finish. Interiors commonly feature a tasteful blend of fiberglass liners and warm wood trim, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere below decks. Storage is generally ample, reflecting its design as a cruising boat, and ventilation is typically achieved through opening ports and overhead hatches.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bristol 35.5 consistently laud its exceptional build quality, durability, and seaworthiness. The "overbuilt" nature of Bristol Yachts translates into a vessel that inspires confidence, particularly in challenging conditions. Many current owners appreciate the timeless design and robust "bones" of the 35.5, making it a popular choice for those seeking a well-constructed classic that can be enjoyed as is or refurbished.

While the vast majority of owner feedback is positive regarding the boat's structural integrity and sailing characteristics, a recurring consideration for older vessels like the Bristol 35.5, particularly the centerboard version, is the potential for maintenance issues related to the centerboard mechanism, necessitating thorough inspection for prospective buyers. However, significant structural problems are rare, a testament to Bristol's initial construction quality. The active community of Bristol owners further highlights the enduring appeal and support available for these cherished vessels.