Cheoy Lee 35 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cheoy Lee 35 entered production in 1979 and continued until 1983, with approximately 70 units built. Its design came from the pen of Robert H. Perry, a designer celebrated for crafting some of the most successful cruising yachts in modern sailing. Perry's philosophy, often associated with "performance cruising," aimed to create yachts that combined respectable sailing abilities with comfortable and secure accommodations for extended voyages. The Cheoy Lee Shipyard, with over a century of shipbuilding heritage, brought this design to life, leveraging its pioneering expertise in fiberglass construction. Having been among the first to extensively utilize GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and foam sandwich technology, Cheoy Lee was well-regarded for producing robust and seaworthy vessels during this era. The Cheoy Lee 35 was primarily offered as a masthead sloop, but was also available as a ketch, providing options for different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee 35's design ratios provide insight into its intended sailing performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.4, she is a moderately powered cruiser, suggesting solid performance in a good breeze rather than exceptional light-air speed. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.36 indicates a decent level of initial stability, allowing her to stand up to a fair amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 321 positions the Cheoy Lee 35 firmly in the heavier cruising yacht category. This heavier displacement contributes to a comfortable ride, particularly in rougher conditions, though it means she won't be the fastest boat on the racecourse. Owners generally describe the Cheoy Lee 35 as balanced and easy to handle, capable of reaching a theoretical hull speed of about 6.97 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior dimensions like maximum headroom are not detailed in the core specifications, the Cheoy Lee 35 is noted for its warm and inviting interior spaces. The cabin features extensive use of teak, including teak and holly cabin soles, teak trim, and a teak salon table, contributing to a classic and nautical ambiance. The layout is described as functional and welcoming, typical of cruising yachts of its era, often featuring a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and a head compartment. Storage is generally ample, catering to the needs of cruisers on longer passages. The use of traditional materials and robust construction extends to the interior, reflecting Cheoy Lee's reputation for dependable products.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Cheoy Lee yachts, including the 35, frequently commend the builder's reputation for solid construction and overall durability. However, a commonly noted characteristic of many older Cheoy Lee models, particularly those originally fitted with teak decks, is the potential for "leaky teakys"—issues with the deck developing leaks over time if not properly maintained or re-bedded. Despite this, the Robert Perry-designed Cheoy Lee 35 is generally appreciated for its bluewater capabilities and comfortable cruising experience, often praised as a reliable and confidence-inspiring vessel for those looking to undertake coastal or offshore voyages.