Olson 34 (Ericson) Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of 34 feet and a waterline length of 28 feet, the Olson 34 embodies a design philosophy that prioritizes efficiency and speed without entirely sacrificing interior volume. It remains a sought-after vessel for sailors looking for a balanced performer that can handle diverse conditions, reflecting Ericson's commitment to quality fiberglass yachts.

History and Design

The Olson 34's lineage traces back to George Olson, a designer renowned for creating fast, responsive sailboats. The design itself is considered a scaled-up version of his successful Olson 911S. While a single unit was reportedly built by Pacific Boats Inc. in 1986, the majority of Olson 34s were constructed by Ericson Yachts from 1988 to 1990.

Ericson Yachts, known for their durable hulls and superior fiberglass construction, imparted their signature build quality to the Olson 34. While George Olson's original vision leaned towards lightweight performance, Ericson's approach often resulted in a heavier, more substantially built vessel, sometimes eschewing cored hulls for solid fiberglass construction, which contributed to its reputation for offshore capability. This heavier build also often corresponded with the installation of a taller rig, better suited to the lighter wind conditions commonly found on the US East Coast. Anecdotal evidence suggests slight variations in the production run, including differences in cabin port arrangements on early models and potential distinctions in engine bay and aft cabin woodwork.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ericson Olson 34 delivers a sailing experience that balances performance with stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.21, she exhibits good potential for performance, particularly in lighter air, suggesting an ability to move well when many other cruisers might struggle. Her displacement-to-length ratio of around 215.57 positions her as a moderately light, performance-oriented cruiser, capable of respectable speeds while still offering a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Further contributing to its sailing characteristics is a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40%, indicating a good degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze without excessive heeling. Owners frequently describe the Olson 34 as a "well-balanced" boat. While generally considered a fast boat for its era and suitable for distance cruising, some owners of the tall-rigged versions have noted that performance can be substandard in winds under 8 to 10 knots. A common concern among owners has been the original rudder design, which was reportedly prone to failure, often leading to replacement with more robust alternatives.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications are not always widely published, the Olson 34 was designed to incorporate essential cruising comforts within its performance-oriented hull. The interior typically features a layout conducive to both racing and cruising, often characterized by a high bridge deck. Reviews and owner discussions suggest a practical arrangement, often including an aft head, which is generally well-received by owners. The boat also provides generous bunks for sleeping, enhancing its suitability for overnight trips or longer voyages.

The overall finish quality aligns with Ericson's general ethos of solid construction, with interior woodwork that can be refinished to maintain its aesthetic appeal. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, owners have discussed the main cabin headroom, suggesting it is a consideration for taller individuals. Compared to some pure racing designs, the Olson 34's interior, though perhaps more open than heavily segmented cruising layouts, still offers a functional and comfortable living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ericson Olson 34 generally praise its robust build quality and its balanced sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its capability as both a competitive club racer and a comfortable cruiser, making it a versatile choice. The boat's ability to handle offshore conditions is a frequently mentioned positive attribute.

However, common recurring issues noted by owners include the original rudder, which has a known history of problems and often requires replacement or reinforcement. Another area of concern can be the original deck fittings, which owners report are prone to developing leaks over time, necessitating careful re-bedding. Despite these potential maintenance items, the active owner community, particularly on forums like EricsonYachts.org, indicates strong loyalty and shared enthusiasm for the Olson 34's enduring qualities.