San Juan 34 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the San Juan 34 begins in 1975 with the introduction of the Crown 34, designed by Canadian Hein Driehuyzen and built by Calgan Marine Ltd. The design was notably influenced by the International Offshore Rule (IOR) and contemporary performance cruiser designs, such as the Peterson Ganbare 35, indicating an intention for competitive sailing. By 1980, the molds for the Crown 34 were acquired by the Clark Boat Company, a Washington-based builder renowned for its fiberglass sailboats that combined quality, ease of sailing, and value. [3, Clark Boat Company, which had a strong ethos of producing well-made, hand-laid fiberglass vessels, introduced the boat as the San Juan 34, with modifications to the original design made by Don Clark. 6, 7, Builder Article

Production of the San Juan 34 by Clark Boat Company ran from 1980 to 1986. During its production run, Clark offered variations, including a shoal draft version and a tall rig option, catering to different sailing preferences and conditions. The design's longevity and enduring appeal are a testament to its well-conceived origins and the quality of its construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The San Juan 34 is characterized by a design that balances cruising comfort with spirited performance. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.28 suggests a boat with good light-air performance, capable of moving efficiently even in lighter breezes. Coupled with a high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.457, the San Juan 34 demonstrates excellent stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up to significant wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway.

With a displacement to waterline length ratio of approximately 216, the San Juan 34 falls into the moderately heavy category, promising a solid feel and a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration contribute to splendid maneuverability, making the boat responsive and enjoyable to sail. Owners frequently describe the San Juan 34 as a fast, strong, and reliable vessel, well-suited for both cruising and actively participating in racing circuits, such as the Northwest PRHF racing scene.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the San Juan 34, while subject to minor modifications when Clark Boat Company took over production, offers a practical and comfortable layout typical of performance cruisers of its era. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.25 feet, the cabin feels spacious and accommodating for most individuals. The hull's fiberglass construction likely extended to many interior components, providing a durable and relatively easy-to-maintain finish.

While specific interior diagrams require detailed search, a typical layout for a boat of this size would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Storage is generally well-considered for extended cruising, and ventilation would be provided through deck hatches and portlights. The solid construction ethos of Clark Boat Company suggests a well-finished interior, often featuring a blend of fiberglass liners and wood trim to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the San Juan 34 frequently express high satisfaction with their vessels, contributing to a strong and devoted owner base. The boat is consistently praised for its superior building quality and solid reputation, attributes that contribute to its longevity and ability to retain value in the used boat market. Many owners highlight the San Juan 34 as an "awesome boat" that is "fast, strong, and reliable," making it a versatile choice for both serious cruising and competitive racing.

While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues are not widely detailed in general owner forums, the overall sentiment points to a well-engineered and durable boat. The transition from Crown 34 to San Juan 34 involved some "marketing and financial problems" between the original builders, but these were largely external to the boat's design and construction integrity. The active owner community is a testament to the boat's enduring appeal, with members readily sharing information and supporting each other in maintaining these classic cruisers.