Comfort 34 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Comfort 34 emerged from the vision of Kenneth Albinsson, a pivotal figure in Swedish boat building and the designer of several influential Comfort models, 1, 7, 8]. Launched in 1974 by Comfortbåtar AB, the vessel was initially conceived with a competitive edge, though it was quickly adapted to excel as a comfortable cruiser. Comfortbåtar AB, co-founded by Albinsson in 1972, embraced fiberglass as its primary construction material, a standard for production yachts of that era, ensuring robust and durable hulls.

A significant development in the Comfort 34's history occurred in 1978 when Sweden Yachts acquired the production rights. Under Sweden Yachts, the boat was subsequently rebranded as the Sweden Yachts C34. This transition maintained the original design integrity while aligning it with Sweden Yachts' burgeoning reputation for high-quality, elegant sailing vessels. The builder's enduring philosophy, carried through both iterations of the Comfort 34, prioritized perfect sailing characteristics, safety, speed, and a high degree of comfort within an elegant Scandinavian aesthetic. The design features a fin keel and spade rudder, indicative of a boat geared for responsive handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Comfort 34's design ratios paint a picture of a well-balanced sailboat capable of delivering enjoyable performance across a range of conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.5, the Comfort 34 is moderately powered, suggesting a boat that performs competently without being overly sensitive in light airs or excessively demanding in heavy weather. Her ballast to displacement ratio, a robust 42.3%, indicates a stiff and stable platform, enabling her to stand up to a good breeze and maintain an even keel, contributing to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of around 216.6 positions the Comfort 34 in the lighter-to-moderate displacement category for a boat of her size and era, hinting at a design that favors a blend of responsive sailing and cruising amenity.

Anecdotal reports frequently describe the Comfort 34, also known as the Sweden Yachts C34, as a "beautiful yacht of Swedish origin" that offers "pure comfortable sailing". Owners and reviewers often highlight its "sturdy appearance" and classic lines. The cockpit is designed to be protective, providing a secure space behind the spray hood. Overall, the Comfort 34 is recognized for its seaworthiness and a sailing experience that is "more comfortable than 58% of all similar sailboat designs".

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Comfort 34 is characterized by a "remarkably neat and spacious" layout for a 34-foot yacht, reflecting the Scandinavian emphasis on functional elegance. The joinery is typically crafted from mahogany, providing a warm and classic ambiance. The standard arrangement features two cabins, offering a total of five berths, which often includes a sea berth in the salon.

A common configuration includes a V-shaped berth in the forecabin, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements forward. Aft, the layout typically incorporates a double berth in a dedicated aftercabin, maximizing privacy and comfort. While specific details of the galley and navigation station may vary slightly between individual boats due to owner customizations or production updates, the overall design aims to provide practical amenities for cruising. The spacious hull design, noted by the designer, contributes to the generous interior volume.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Comfort 34, whether under its original name or as the Sweden Yachts C34, consistently praise its robust build quality and excellent sailing characteristics. The enduring design by Kenneth Albinsson, combined with the manufacturing ethos of both Comfortbåtar AB and Sweden Yachts, resulted in a vessel that continues to be appreciated for its timeless appeal and solid performance, 10]. The emphasis on comfort and safety, inherent in the builder's philosophy, translates into a boat that inspires confidence and allows for enjoyable cruising. While specific forums or common problem lists for the Comfort 34 are not extensively documented in available public searches, the general reputation of Comfortina (the later brand) and Sweden Yachts points to a legacy of high-quality construction and design that typically garners strong owner satisfaction.