Farr 395 Information, Review, Specs

The Farr 395's production run spanned a brief but impactful period from 2000 to 2003. This model held a special place in Carroll Marine's history, as it was the first boat the Rhode Island-based builder actively developed in collaboration with Farr Yacht Design, rather than solely constructing an existing design. Carroll Marine, renowned for its commitment to high-performance sailing yachts, speed, efficiency, and robust construction, brought its expertise in utilizing advanced materials and innovative techniques to the Farr 395 project. Farr Yacht Design's philosophy for the 395 aimed to deliver a comfortable and fast club racer—a truly dual-purpose boat that would appeal to sailors seeking both competitive speed and enjoyable, shorthanded cruising. While the primary production model was known as the Farr 395 One-Design, later modifications to the original design were developed to enhance its competitiveness under IRC rating rules, and an upgraded rudder design was subsequently introduced.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Farr 395 is characterized by a design that prioritizes performance without sacrificing comfort. With a displacement of 12,500 pounds and a total calculated sail area of 825.68 square feet, the boat exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 24.49. This high ratio suggests excellent light-air performance and a spirited feel on the water, capable of accelerating quickly and maintaining speed even in lighter breezes. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 36.64% indicates good, but not exceptionally stiff, stability for a performance-oriented design, allowing the boat to stand up to a fair amount of wind while maintaining responsiveness. Its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 140.2 places it firmly in the light-to-moderate displacement category, signaling a boat designed for speed and agile handling rather than heavy-duty cruising.

Anecdotal reports consistently describe the Farr 395 as a "great fast boat" that is "easy to sail". Its purposeful lines, including a plumb bow and a short overhang aft, contribute to its well-proportioned and performance-driven aesthetic. The boat is known for being responsive and fun to sail, offering a rewarding experience for those who appreciate speed and precise control. For optimal performance, especially in a racing context, the deeper keel option is often highlighted as beneficial.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance pedigree, the Farr 395 also features an interior designed for comfort and usability, reflecting its dual-purpose nature. The interior layout is generally described as simple, yet comfortable, suitable for both dockside living and offshore passages. While specific details on materials like wood trim or fiberglass finishes are not extensively documented in available reviews, the overall impression is one of a well-engineered space. A notable feature often mentioned is the head, which is designed with two entrances for convenient access. The accommodations are intended to make the boat comfortable for cruising, even when shorthanded.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Farr 395 frequently praise its speed, excellent design, and overall sailing characteristics, often highlighting its capabilities as both a competitive racer and a comfortable cruiser. The boat's ability to be easily handled, even with a reduced crew, is a recurring positive theme.

However, some owners and forum discussions point to significant concerns regarding the original construction quality from Carroll Marine during its production. Recurring issues mentioned include instances of chain plates pulling out and problems with fiberglass permeating water, leading to "known hull problems" and suggestions that "Carroll Marine cut some serious corners" on certain boats. These construction-related concerns have led some to recommend thorough inspections, particularly of critical structural areas. The introduction of an upgraded rudder design later on also hints at potential issues with the original component. Despite these challenges, boats that have been properly maintained or rebuilt to address these issues are often regarded as highly competitive and rewarding vessels.