Cal 35 (1979) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Cal 35 in 1979 marked a significant collaboration between designer Bill Lapworth and Jensen Marine. Lapworth's design philosophy, which was fundamental to the Cal brand's identity, focused on developing performance-oriented fiberglass sailboats known for their solid, well-built, and tough characteristics, while remaining easy to sail and comfortable for cruising. Jensen Marine, since its founding in 1956, had embraced fiberglass for its versatility and durability, a commitment evident in the solid glass hull construction of the Cal 35. A notable aspect of Cal's manufacturing ethos was constructing the entire interior outside the hull, rather than using a fiberglass pan as a structural grid for furniture.

It is important to distinguish the 1979 Cal 35 from an earlier model, the Cal 35 Cruising Ketch (1973), with which it should not be confused. The 1979 version represents the original iteration of this particular Lapworth design. A significant variation was introduced in 1981 with the Cal 35 MKII, which featured a slightly different interior layout. On the earlier, 1979 version of the Cal 35, the head was located aft on the port side next to the companionway, with the galley positioned on the starboard side.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cal 35 (1979) exhibits characteristics indicative of a capable cruiser with an emphasis on balanced performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.35, the Cal 35 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at 0.40, indicating a relatively stiff and stable vessel capable of standing up to a decent amount of wind. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 243.08 positions the Cal 35 as a moderate displacement cruiser, striking a balance between a light, performance-focused design and a heavier, more traditional displacement hull.

Owners frequently praise Cal boats for tracking well and being very dry under sail, attributes that generally extend to the Cal 35. The vessel is often described as well-behaved with good balance, suggesting a predictable and comfortable motion through the water. While it is designed as a cruiser, the Cal 35 also demonstrates respectable performance on the racecourse, with a PHRF rating typically around 160. Its robust construction, featuring a solid fiberglass hull, contributes to its reputation as a sturdy and reliable boat in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on interior headroom are not consistently available, the Cal 35 (1979) offered a functional and well-constructed living space, designed to withstand the rigors of cruising. As noted, the original 1979 model featured a distinct interior arrangement compared to its later MKII counterpart. In this earlier configuration, the head was located aft on the port side, immediately adjacent to the companionway, while the galley was situated on the starboard side.

Cal Boats, including the Cal 35, were known for a construction approach where the entire interior was built separately and then installed into the hull, rather than relying on a fiberglass pan as a structural component for the furniture. While one owner's comment suggests the boat wasn't primarily "bought for the furniture," hinting at a focus on practicality over luxurious finishes, Cal boats generally utilized wood trim alongside fiberglass elements, contributing to a durable and classic marine aesthetic. The interior layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a main salon, and quarter berths, providing ample sleeping and living areas for extended cruising. Storage is generally adequate for a boat of its size, and while specific ventilation details vary by individual boat and owner modifications, these boats were designed for comfortable use in a variety of climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cal 35 consistently commend its solid construction and its ability to provide a comfortable motion in a seaway, reflecting Cal's reputation for building tough and well-built vessels. Many appreciate its ease of handling and its reliable tracking, making it a desirable choice for both experienced sailors and those looking for a forgiving platform. The general sentiment among owners is that the Cal 35 is a fundamentally well-built boat, often preferred over some contemporary alternatives for its robust design. Its narrower beam, compared to some later designs, is sometimes noted as a benefit in heavy seas during bluewater passages, suggesting that its design prioritizes seaworthiness and practical living spaces over expansive interior volume.

Common considerations for owners of boats from this era, including the Cal 35, often revolve around the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, requiring re-bedding as part of routine maintenance. However, the overall consensus points to the Cal 35 as an enduring and capable sailboat, with a strong and active community of owners who continue to maintain and sail these classic yachts, 12].