Liberator 35 (Colvic) Information, Review, Specs

The Colvic Liberator 35 began production in 1978, emerging from the shipyards of Colvic Craft Ltd., a company that established itself as one of the earliest and most prolific builders of fiberglass yachts in the United Kingdom. Founded by Colin Burns and Vic Pascoe in 1964, Colvic Craft's enduring impact stemmed from its early adoption of Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction, providing durable and accessible vessels to a burgeoning market. Their design philosophy centered on practicality, durability, and seaworthiness, aiming for robust and forgiving yachts suitable for blue water cruising or comfortable family sailing. While Colvic was primarily a molder and manufacturer, bringing numerous designs to life in GRP, the Liberator 35 stands out as a design by the acclaimed Edward George Dubois, reflecting his signature approach to balanced performance and comfortable cruising. There are indications that the Colvic-built hulls for the Liberator 35 may have been constructed more heavily than Dubois's original design intent, a characteristic sometimes noted by owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Colvic Liberator 35 is characterized by a design that prioritizes stability and a comfortable motion. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.47 (47%), she carries a substantial amount of ballast relative to her overall weight. This high ratio contributes significantly to her stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up well to a breeze and providing a reassuring ride in choppy conditions. Her displacement-to-length ratio, around 229, places her in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser. This suggests a boat that offers a good blend of seaworthiness and carrying capacity, rather than a lightweight racer, while still capable of respectable speeds.

Owners frequently describe the Liberator 35 as an "easy boat to handle" and a "gentle" performer, capable of sailing well in a variety of conditions. Despite her cruising aspirations, she is also noted for being a "sporty sailor," indicating that she offers an engaging experience at the helm. Her fin keel and spade rudder configuration suggest good maneuverability and responsiveness, allowing for precise control.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the interior variations can differ depending on the individual completion of the hull, the Colvic Liberator 35 generally offers a practical and comfortable layout typical of a 35-foot cruiser of her era. The design focuses on maximizing interior volume for liveaboard comfort or extended cruising. Most configurations would feature a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that often convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage is typically ample, designed to accommodate provisions and gear for longer voyages. The boat comes with a generous water capacity of 80 gallons, supporting longer periods away from shore. The general finish quality can vary, as some Liberator 35s were professionally fitted out, while others might have been completed by their owners, potentially leading to differences in interior craftsmanship and material choices.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Colvic Liberator 35 consistently praise her sturdy build quality, a hallmark of Colvic Craft's fiberglass construction. The robust GRP hull provides a sense of security and durability, particularly valued by those undertaking serious cruising. Her easy and gentle handling characteristics are a frequently cited strength, making her a forgiving vessel for a wide range of sailors and conditions.

One recurring discussion point among owners relates to the variability of the interior finish. While some boats benefited from professional fit-outs, others were sold as hull-and-deck mouldings for owner completion, leading to a spectrum of interior quality and layout. This means potential buyers should inspect the specific boat's interior carefully. There is also some commentary suggesting that Colvic built the Liberator 35 hulls more heavily than the designer, Ed Dubois, originally intended, potentially affecting light-air performance slightly but undoubtedly contributing to her solid feel and stability. The active and knowledgeable community of Colvic Liberator 35 owners provides a valuable resource for advice, maintenance tips, and shared experiences.