Irwin 34 Citation Information, Review, Specs

Ted Irwin, a designer known for his diverse portfolio spanning successful racers and comfortable cruisers, personally penned the lines for the Citation series. His company, Irwin Yacht and Marine Corporation, founded in St. Petersburg, Florida in 1966, consistently produced fiberglass sailing vessels throughout its history, even amidst corporate challenges. The Irwin 34 Citation stands as a testament to Irwin Yachts' enduring legacy in providing capable and comfortable boats for the cruising community.

History and Design

Production of the Irwin 34 Citation commenced in 1979 and continued until 1985, a period during which Irwin Yachts maintained its position as a significant fiberglass sailboat manufacturer. Ted Irwin's overarching design philosophy often involved a dual focus: creating successful racing boats while also catering to the burgeoning yacht charter market with vessels emphasizing comfort and practicality. The Citation series, including the 34, reflects this blend, aiming for a design that sails well yet offers ample interior space.

A notable design variation mentioned for the Irwin 34 Citation is the availability of a shoal draft keel, drawing approximately 4.0 feet, in addition to the standard fin keel version. This option enhanced its accessibility to shallower waters, a valuable trait for coastal cruising. Throughout its production run, there were no reported major changes to the boat's fundamental design. Irwin Yachts, under Ted Irwin's continuous leadership, consistently utilized fiberglass construction, a material that became the industry standard during the company's operational years.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 34 Citation exhibits sailing characteristics well-suited for its role as a coastal cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 16.9, it suggests a boat with moderate performance in lighter winds, capable of moving efficiently without being overly sensitive. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of around 0.36 indicates a decent level of initial stability, allowing it to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind before excessive heeling. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 251 categorizes it as a moderately heavy cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than the lighter, more agile feel of a pure performance boat.

According to owner accounts and reviews, the Irwin 34 Citation is generally considered a good sailing boat, often described as well-balanced between its mainsail and jib. Owners frequently report that the boat sails well and is easily balanced on various points of sail. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to responsive handling, making it a pleasant boat to steer for coastal voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior dimensions for the Irwin 34 Citation are not extensively documented in structured data, general reviews and owner discussions provide insights into its typical layout and features. The interior is characterized by a conventional arrangement designed for comfortable cruising. Standard accommodations often include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a table, and a galley area. Quarter berths are also common, maximizing sleeping capacity.

The finish quality and use of materials are generally consistent with an economy builder of its era, primarily featuring fiberglass construction with some wood trim. Owners performing restorations often address issues typical of older boats, suggesting that while the build is solid, the original interior finishes may show their age. Storage is generally considered adequate for coastal cruising needs, and ventilation would typically rely on hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 34 Citation frequently praise its overall sailing performance and the spaciousness of its interior for a boat of its size. Many consider it a good value for a coastal cruiser, offering comfortable accommodations and decent handling at a reasonable price point in the used boat market. The boat is often seen as a delightful cruiser by its owners.

However, common issues noted by owners include potential gelcoat problems and the need for maintenance on original deck fittings, which can develop leaks over time, requiring re-bedding. As with many vessels of its vintage, restoration projects often focus on updating systems and addressing wear and tear. Despite these common age-related concerns, a strong and active online community of Irwin owners continues to share advice and support, underscoring the enduring appeal and practicality of these boats.