Dehler 34-3 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Dehler 34-3 entered production in 2015, marking a contemporary chapter in Dehler's storied history of crafting high-performance sailboats. The design responsibilities for the hull and exterior were entrusted to Judel/Vrolijk & Co., a firm celebrated for its performance-oriented hulls and elegant deck designs. Dehler's interior design team then focused on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces.

In line with Dehler's overarching design philosophy, the 34-3 incorporates advanced hull designs and the brand's unique Carbon Cage, which provides tangible hull stability and enhanced resilience against challenging sea conditions, allowing sailors to push closer to the wind's edge. The yacht was conceived with a wide range of options to tailor it to owners' precise requirements. Notably, the Dehler 34-3 was offered with several keel and rig configurations, including a Standard draft of 6.33 feet, a Competition draft of 6.75 feet, and a shallower draft option of 5.08 feet. Similarly, displacement varied between Standard (13,228 lbs), Competition (12,345 lbs), and Shallow (13,448 lbs) versions, along with corresponding ballast options and mast heights. These variations allowed owners to optimize the boat for either cruising comfort or competitive racing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dehler 34-3 lives up to its "cruiser racer" designation, offering an engaging and responsive sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.0, the yacht demonstrates good light-air performance, suggesting it can move efficiently even in lighter breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.35 indicates a moderate degree of stiffness, providing a balanced feel and the ability to stand up to a respectable amount of wind without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 189 places the Dehler 34-3 firmly in the lighter performance cruiser category, hinting at an agile and responsive character.

Anecdotal reports consistently highlight the Dehler 34-3's strong sailing ability and ease of handling. The yacht is engineered for fast, easy sailing, promising a top-tier sailing experience that seamlessly blends performance, speed, and comfort. Its design aims to eliminate the need for racing owners to upgrade, making it genuinely versatile for both competitive events and comfortable cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is not available, the interior of the Dehler 34-3, designed by Dehler, is characterized by elegant craftsmanship, versatile layouts, and advanced functionality. The thoughtful layout aims to create a luxurious and practical onboard experience. Owners can expect a spacious aft cabin, complete with a locker, and a large bow cabin featuring a double V-berth and ample cabinet lockers. The Dehler Uni Door Concept further enhances interior flexibility. Reviews highlight that the accommodation benefits from plenty of natural light and ventilation, largely due to a substantial coachroof window that doubles as a large opening port. This design ensures a comfortable and airy living space, even below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dehler 34-3 generally praise the yacht for its robust construction, impressive sailing capabilities, and the balance it strikes between performance and comfort. Many appreciate its responsiveness under sail and its ability to be easily handled by a small crew. The German engineering and build quality, hallmarks of the Dehler brand, are frequently cited as key strengths. The yacht's versatility, offering both a thrilling sailing experience and a comfortable platform for cruising, is a recurring positive theme among owners.