Dickerson 35 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Dickerson 35 begins in 1965, a product of Dickerson Boatbuilders, a company founded by Bill Dickerson in 1946 with a commitment to "simple, well-built craft" and "real value". Initially, the Dickerson 35 appeared with a hard-chine hull design, attributed to Charles Wittholz. However, its evolution took a significant turn when Thomas Lucke acquired Dickerson Boatbuilders in 1967. Lucke, aiming to enhance the boat's suitability for long-distance cruising, commissioned naval architect Ernest Tucker to re-engineer the model. This resulted in a more substantial round-bilge hull, significantly improving its offshore capabilities.

Constructed primarily of wood, specifically strip-planked mahogany over oak ribs for many of its builds, the Dickerson 35 exemplifies the traditional craftsmanship that was a hallmark of Dickerson Boatbuilders during that era. The vessel was typically rigged as a masthead ketch, known for its versatile sail plan and ease of handling. A notable variation included the availability of a center cockpit "double cabin" version, offering enhanced interior privacy and separate sleeping areas.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dickerson 35, with its design philosophy geared towards cruising, exhibits a balanced performance profile. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.94 suggests a boat capable of respectable performance in lighter airs, while still being manageable as the wind picks up. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.33 indicates a moderate level of stability, implying a comfortable motion in a seaway without being overly stiff. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 277.5 places the Dickerson 35 firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, known for its steady tracking and ability to carry stores for extended voyages.

Equipped with a centerboard keel, the Dickerson 35 offers exceptional flexibility for cruising in diverse environments. The pivoting centerboard allows the boat to reduce its draft from 7.0 feet to a shallow 4.0 feet, making it adept at navigating both deep offshore waters and shallower coastal areas, including accessing marinas and anchorages that might be inaccessible to fixed-keel boats. Owners often praise the boat's agreeable handling characteristics, highlighting its suitability for relaxed cruising rather than competitive racing.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom information for the Dickerson 35 is not consistently available, the design of the Dickerson 35, particularly the "double cabin" center cockpit version, aimed to maximize living space and privacy. Online discussions suggest a layout similar to that of the Dickerson 37, potentially featuring a "tri cabin layout" that provides three distinct sleeping areas.

Generally, Dickerson boats of this era were known for their functional and well-crafted interiors, often featuring warm wood finishes that contributed to a traditional and cozy ambiance below deck. The focus was on practicality and comfort for extended stays, with ample storage appropriate for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

The Dickerson 35, much like other models from the builder, enjoys a dedicated following, fostered by an active Dickerson Owners Association (DOA). Owners consistently laud the boat's sturdy construction and the overall value it represents. Many describe their affection for the Dickerson 35's sailing characteristics, often expressing that they "love sailing her!".

The community often praises the enduring quality of Dickerson's traditional designs. While specific common problems for the Dickerson 35 are not widely documented in general reviews, the shared experiences within the owners' community often revolve around the routine maintenance expected of a well-built wooden vessel of its age, such as ensuring the integrity of deck fittings, a common consideration for many classic sailboats. The robust construction and traditional lines continue to appeal to those seeking a dependable and comfortable cruising platform with a strong community backing its legacy.