Countess 35 (Colvic) Information, Review, Specs

Built by the prolific British fiberglass yacht manufacturer Colvic Craft, the Countess 35 has earned a reputation among sailing enthusiasts for its solid construction and dependable performance. Though produced in smaller numbers than its 33-foot sibling, this centre-cockpit yacht provides an attractive option for those seeking a well-built, resilient cruiser from the fiberglass revolution era.

The Colvic Countess 35 began production in 1982, emerging from the shipyards of Colvic Craft in Essex, England. It was developed by extending the successful Countess 33 design, also from the drawing board of Ian Anderson. Colvic Craft, founded in 1964 by Colin Burns and Vic Pascoe, quickly became a cornerstone of the British marine industry through its pioneering use of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction for a vast number of hulls and finished yachts. Their manufacturing philosophy prioritised durability, practicality, and seaworthiness over cutting-edge performance or opulent luxury, making their boats highly appealing to those seeking reliable vessels for cruising.

The Countess 35, like its predecessor, was offered with a choice of keel configurations: a deep-bodied, encapsulated fin keel with a draft of 5.25 feet, or a twin bilge keel arrangement drawing 4.5 feet. The twin keel option provided enhanced shallow-water access and the ability to dry out on tidal moorings, a popular feature for UK sailors. While the specifies a masthead sloop rig, the Countess series was also available in a ketch configuration, offering owners flexibility in sail plan management. The design aimed to provide a stable, beamy, and deep-bodied hull, characteristics consistent with Colvic's reputation for producing strong, blue-water capable yachts. Despite its merits, "very few of the 35s were built" compared to the Countess 33.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Colvic Countess 35, with a displacement of 15,200 pounds and a waterline length of 31.0 feet, falls into the moderate displacement category, indicated by a Displacement/Length Ratio of approximately 228. This suggests a solid, sea-kindly vessel designed for comfort and stability rather than outright speed. Her ballast of 6,000 pounds relative to her displacement results in a Ballast/Displacement Ratio of approximately 39.5%. This high ratio points to a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to a considerable amount of wind.

While specific sail area data for the Countess 35 is not provided, the design principles of the Countess series, particularly the 33, suggest a conservative sail plan. Owners of the Countess 33, which shares many design characteristics, have reported that the boat is stiff enough to carry a full sail complement until reaching the upper end of a Force 5 wind. This indicates a yacht that offers a comfortable motion and inspires confidence in a seaway, aligning with its design as a capable cruiser. Anecdotal evidence from the broader Colvic range often highlights their predictable handling and ability to manage various sea states with equanimity, making them suitable for long-distance cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Colvic Countess 35 is celebrated for offering a significant amount of living space within its nearly 35-foot length overall. As a centre-cockpit design, it typically features a spacious interior layout that maximises comfort and utility for cruising. While specific headroom dimensions are not readily available, the deep-bodied hull design characteristic of Colvic yachts generally translates into comfortable standing room throughout much of the cabin.

The interior arrangement commonly includes a V-berth forward, providing a comfortable sleeping cabin. A main salon area typically features settees that can often convert into additional berths, alongside a dinette. The galley is usually well-equipped for offshore cooking, often located in the main cabin or an athwartships passage. A dedicated head compartment with marine toilet and washbasin is standard. The centre-cockpit configuration allows for an impressive aft cabin, which often serves as a private owner's suite, a highly desirable feature for cruisers. Colvic boats are known for their practical and durable finishes, often featuring traditional wood trim complemented by robust fiberglass moldings, prioritising longevity and ease of maintenance over luxurious appointments. Storage is generally abundant, designed to accommodate the gear and provisions required for extended voyages. Ventilation typically relies on deck hatches and portlights, providing airflow in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Colvic yachts, including the Countess 35, frequently praise their sturdy construction and generous interior volumes, which make them well-suited for cruising. There is an active community of Colvic enthusiasts who value the enduring qualities of these vessels. Forums and owner groups serve as platforms for sharing knowledge, maintenance tips, and cruising experiences, underscoring the lasting appeal of these classic fiberglass yachts.

Common strengths highlighted by owners often include the robust build quality, the secure feel in heavy weather, and the significant living space afforded by the centre-cockpit layout and deep hull. This makes them a popular choice for those prioritizing a no-nonsense, reliable cruising platform. While specific recurring design flaws for the Countess 35 are not prominently documented, as with any older vessel, common maintenance issues can arise, such as the need for re-bedding deck fittings or addressing aging original equipment. Many owners embark on refits and upgrades to tailor these well-built hulls to contemporary standards and personal cruising preferences, demonstrating their commitment to these resilient vessels.