Caliber 35 Lrc Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Caliber 35 LRC entered production in 1994, building upon the successful foundations of its predecessors, the Caliber 33 (1989) and the earlier Caliber 35. Indeed, the Caliber 35 is fundamentally a refined Caliber 33, distinguished by expanded tank capacities and often a bowsprit or swim platform. Designer Michael McCreary instilled in the 35 LRC a core philosophy centered on safety, seaworthiness, and stability, ensuring the vessel was well-equipped for serious offshore passages. Caliber Yachts, under the guidance of brothers George and Michael McCreary, was known for its "cutting no corners" approach to construction, opting for solid fiberglass hulls that provided exceptional strength and integrity, 10]. This era of Caliber construction emphasized a "go anywhere" ethos, and the 35 LRC benefited from meticulous attention to detail, including a Multi-Bulkhead Bonding System where all interior bulkheads and furniture are bonded directly to the hull, eschewing large fiberglass pans or liners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Caliber 35 LRC's design ratios highlight its mission as a capable cruiser rather than a light-air racer. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.19, the boat exhibits a moderate performance profile, suggesting it is well-powered for general cruising conditions but not optimized for extreme light wind speed. A high ballast to displacement ratio of around 46.56% indicates significant stability and stiffness, allowing the vessel to stand up to a substantial amount of wind without excessive heeling. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of roughly 220.6 places it in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category for a vessel of its size, underscoring its robust build and comfortable motion in a seaway.

The Caliber 35 LRC is equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration chosen for its balance of maneuverability and protection for the rudder in challenging offshore conditions. Owners frequently praise its responsiveness to the helm, even in rough water and high winds, while its cutter rig offers versatility, allowing for efficient sailing in light to medium winds when configured as a sloop. This combination results in a cruising performance that is highly regarded for its seaworthiness and control.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Caliber 35 LRC lives up to its "Long Range Cruiser" designation by offering an eminently livable and thoughtfully appointed interior. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design aims for personal comfort and spaciousness for a vessel of its length. The interior is graciously appointed with hand-crafted teak joinery throughout, creating a warm and traditional marine ambiance.

Typical layouts feature a comfortable main salon, often described as open and inviting upon entry. These vessels are designed to accommodate up to six guests, providing ample space for extended cruising. Storage is a key consideration for long-range sailing, and the LRC series is specifically outfitted with enhanced storage solutions and larger tankage capacities, with the 35 LRC boasting a generous 100 gallons of fuel and 105 gallons of water, competitive with or exceeding many boats in its class, 7]. The robust construction extends to the interior, where the bonding of bulkheads and furniture directly to the hull contributes to structural integrity and reduces creaking associated with fiberglass liners.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Caliber 35 LRC consistently praise its solid construction and reputation as a well-built, "go anywhere" boat. The vessel's seaworthiness, comfortable motion in a seaway, and responsiveness to the helm in varied conditions are frequently highlighted as significant strengths. The community of Caliber owners is noted for being active and loyal, often seeking and providing support through forums and dedicated groups. While the Caliber 35 LRC is celebrated for its robust design and quality, common recurring issues are not widely reported, a testament to the builder's commitment to durability. Owners often appreciate the direct support and resources available from Caliber Yachts' brokerage service, which specializes in pre-owned Caliber vessels, further reinforcing the enduring quality and community surrounding the brand.