Ericson 35-1 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Ericson 35-1 is steeped in yachting lore, with a popular account suggesting that Ericson Yachts acquired the molds of the Pearson-built Alberg 35 after they were discarded. Bruce King, a prominent naval architect, then redesigned key aspects of the boat, including reducing the ballast by 500 pounds and giving the cabin trunk a distinct window shape reminiscent of Columbia Yachts of the era. This redesign led to legal disputes, with Pearson reportedly suing Ericson over the hull (which Ericson won) and Columbia suing over the window shape (which Columbia won, leading to a split-window design in later models). Despite these challenges, the lines of the Ericson 35-1 bear a clear resemblance to the Alberg 35.

Ericson Yachts, founded in the early 1960s by Handy and Jenkins, former Columbia Yachts employees, quickly became known for its effective adoption of fiberglass construction techniques. Their focus was on producing durable and thoughtfully designed yachts, a philosophy that underpinned the initial production of the Ericson 35-1. Bruce King's collaboration with Ericson was extensive, and his designs became central to the brand's identity, emphasizing balanced sailing characteristics and pleasing aesthetics, 15].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ericson 35-1, with its long keel, is characterized by stability and a comfortable motion, often praised for its ability to handle well under sail even when fully loaded. To understand its performance characteristics, several ratios can be interpreted:

• Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D): At approximately 16.61, this ratio suggests a moderate sail plan relative to its displacement. While not an extreme light-air performer (typically, ratios above 18 suggest better light-air capability), it indicates a balanced approach, providing sufficient power for cruising without being overly sensitive in stronger winds.
• Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D): With a robust ratio of 0.44 (44.1%), the Ericson 35-1 possesses significant ballast relative to its overall weight. This high ratio contributes to excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze and maintain a more upright attitude, enhancing comfort and safety offshore.
• Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L): Calculating at approximately 383.73, this ratio places the Ericson 35-1 firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. Boats with a D/L ratio greater than 300 are generally considered heavy, emphasizing robust construction and a sea-kindly motion over pure speed, though owners report it being a beautiful sailing boat capable of averaging over 6 knots.

Owners have noted that the Ericson 35-1 handles well, though it may lose some light-air performance compared to more modern designs. Its full keel design provides good directional stability, making it less prone to twitchiness and easier to manage on long passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Ericson 35-1 follows a traditional arrangement, prioritizing comfort and functionality for cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design generally features a private forward cabin with a V-berth, a common arrangement for sleeping accommodations. A enclosed head typically occupies a space between the forward cabin and the main salon. The main salon usually includes settees, which can often convert into berths, providing additional sleeping capacity and a comfortable living area. The galley, often located aft, provides basic amenities for meal preparation.

Reviewers and owners often highlight the thoughtful utilization of space within the Ericson 35-1's interior, characteristic of Bruce King's designs. While the beam is moderately narrow for a boat of its length, the layout is generally considered well-conceived, making the most of the available volume. Interior finishes would typically reflect the era of production, likely featuring wood trim and fiberglass surfaces, aiming for a robust and serviceable cruising environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ericson 35-1 frequently praise its solid construction and sea-kindly motion, appreciating its stability and general handling characteristics under sail. Many describe it as a beautiful sailing boat, capable of respectable speeds and easy to manage, even for single-handed sailing. The strong and active owner community for Ericson yachts, including specific discussions on the 35-1, attests to the lasting appeal and practicality of these vessels, indicating a loyal following.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Ericson 35-1 may present common maintenance challenges. Owners occasionally note issues such as leaking anchor lockers or problems with original deck fittings, which might require re-bedding over time. Despite these potential age-related issues, the enduring design and robust build quality ensure that the Eric5on 35-1 remains a popular and valued choice in the used boat market.