Coronado 34 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Coronado 34's production span, from 1966 to 1974, falls within a dynamic period for Coronado Yachts. The company, which evolved from Wesco Marine, aimed to make yachting accessible to a wider audience with its range of popular cruising sailboats. In 1968, Coronado Yachts was acquired by the Whittaker Corporation, a conglomerate that also owned Columbia Yachts. Throughout this period, Coronado was known for its practical designs, a philosophy clearly reflected in the Coronado 34.

William H. Tripp Jr.'s design of the Coronado 34 specifically emphasized a "moderately weighted sailboat offering reasonable performance, noted for being very stable and stiff, with good righting capabilities if capsized." This design philosophy aligned perfectly with Coronado's overall goal of delivering comfortable and secure cruising experiences. The construction largely employed solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck, a common and durable practice of the era. No significant variations or different rig configurations, such as MkI/MkII versions or tall rigs, are widely documented for the Coronado 34 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Coronado 34 exhibits sailing characteristics typical of a well-designed cruiser from its era, balancing performance with stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.28, she possesses a moderate sail plan, suggesting respectable performance in a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in heavy air. This ratio indicates a boat that can move well in light breezes but is primarily optimized for comfortable cruising rather than outright speed.

The yacht's robust construction and design are underscored by its high Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/D) of approximately 0.41 (41%). This substantial ballast contributes significantly to the Coronado 34's inherent stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze effectively and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners have frequently praised the boat's "stable and stiff" nature, noting its good righting capabilities. Furthermore, the Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of around 209.5 places the Coronado 34 in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category. This suggests a solid, sea-kindly vessel that prioritizes comfort and load-carrying capacity over lightweight agility, providing a steady platform for extended cruising. Anecdotal evidence from owners often highlights that the Coronado 34 "sails better and faster than any boat its size," attributing this to its well-built nature and extensive use.

The Coronado 34 features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration that generally provides good maneuverability and responsiveness for a cruising boat of its size. This combination, coupled with its inherent stability, makes for a predictable and confidence-inspiring sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific textual descriptions of the Coronado 34's interior layout are not extensively documented in widely available public search results, the existence of interior layout plans suggests a thoughtful design for comfortable cruising. The boat offers a generous maximum headroom of 6 feet 4 inches, providing ample standing room for most individuals below deck.

Typical of a 34-foot cruising sailboat of the late 1960s and early 1970s, the interior likely features a conventional layout designed for functional living on extended voyages. This would generally include a V-berth forward, serving as the primary sleeping cabin. A main salon typically incorporates settees that may convert into additional berths, alongside a dinette area. The galley, often located along one side of the salon or aft, would provide essential cooking facilities, while a dedicated head compartment, usually equipped with a marine toilet and sink, would be present. Storage space would be integrated throughout the vessel, with lockers and shelves designed to accommodate provisions and personal gear. While details on specific materials are limited, boats of this era often featured a blend of fiberglass surfaces with warm wood trim, creating a durable yet inviting atmosphere. Ventilation would typically be managed through deck hatches and opening portlights, crucial for comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Coronado 34 consistently praise its robust construction and comfortable motion, affirming its reputation as a "well built boat" capable of extensive use. Many appreciate its stability and stiffness, which contribute to a secure feeling, especially in adverse conditions. The general consensus points to the Coronado 34 as a reliable and capable cruiser that introduced many to the joys of sailing due to its accessible nature and solid performance for its size, 3].

However, as with any classic fiberglass yacht, potential owners should be aware of common issues that can arise with boats of this vintage. While no specific recurring design flaws were widely reported for the Coronado 34, general concerns for boats from this era can include potential "blister probs" in the hull, a common issue with early fiberglass construction, as well as the need for diligent maintenance of original fittings and systems. These are typical considerations for any older vessel and do not detract from the overall positive sentiment regarding the Coronado 34's fundamental design and build quality. The enduring community of Coronado owners continues to support these vessels, highlighting their lasting appeal as dependable and value-rich cruising yachts.