Hans Christian 34 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The production of the Hans Christian 34 spanned from 1974 to 1979. The vessel's creation was a result of the collaboration between John Edwards, the founder of Hans Christian Yachts, and designer Robert Perry. Perry was responsible for developing the hull, keel, and rig designs that would define this enduring model. Edwards' founding vision for Hans Christian was to produce high-quality, ocean-capable sailing yachts in Taiwan, characterized by traditional aesthetics and robust construction. The Hans Christian 34 exemplifies this ethos, featuring a heavy displacement hull, a full keel, and a double-ended stern, all hallmarks of classic offshore cruising boat design. An interesting historical note is that while the subsequent 36-foot version is often associated with Robert Perry, it was an unauthorized "stretched" modification of the 34's design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hans Christian 34's design ratios provide insight into its performance characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.96, the boat is not designed for light-air racing, but rather for steady progress in more substantial winds. Its ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.37, indicates a solid level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 349.6 confirms its status as a very heavy displacement vessel, characteristic of traditional cruisers built for comfort and seaworthiness over outright speed. This heavy displacement and full keel contribute significantly to its ability to handle heavy seas with relative comfort and a stable motion. The theoretical hull speed for the Hans Christian 34 is 7.24 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures for the Hans Christian 34 are not widely detailed, the brand is celebrated for its commitment to traditional, warm, and cozy interiors. Owners often describe the interior as having a classic "teaked out cabin" feel, indicative of extensive use of wood trim and finishes. The robust fiberglass hull construction provides a solid foundation for the interior spaces. The boat is equipped with a generous water capacity of 120 gallons, supporting extended periods away from shore.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Hans Christian yachts, including the 34, frequently praise their vessels for their solid construction and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. The brand has cultivated a dedicated global community, reflecting the enduring appeal of these distinctive cruising boats. While the aesthetic appeal of the extensive exterior woodwork is often lauded, owners sometimes note that maintaining this woodwork requires ongoing attention. Additionally, the low boom can be a consideration in certain situations. Robert Perry himself maintains a connection with Hans Christian owners, underscoring the enduring legacy and community surrounding these classic designs.