Irwin 35 Citation Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Irwin 35 Citation began its production run in 1986 under the Irwin Yachts banner. Ted Irwin, who started building boats in his backyard at age 15 and officially established Irwin Yacht and Marine Corporation in 1966, was known for his hands-on approach and a design ethos that catered to a broad spectrum of sailors. While the Citation series, including the 38 Citation, was conceived as dual-purpose cruiser-racers, the 35 Citation leans into the comfortable coastal cruiser category, reflecting Irwin's broader commitment to practical and livable boats 2, 7, Builder Article. There is no information to suggest significant variations or mark designations (e.g., MkI, MkII) during the production of the Irwin 35 Citation.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 35 Citation exhibits a design optimized for a blend of performance and stability. Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.63 suggests a boat with good light-air performance and higher acceleration, a characteristic often associated with a lighter displacement for its category. Complementing this, a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 45.2% indicates a notably stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up well to a breeze. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 221, the Irwin 35 Citation falls into the moderate-weight cruiser category, indicating a design that prioritizes comfortable motion without being overly heavy. Overall, the boat is described as very stable and stiff. Anecdotal reports suggest that the 35 Citation can perform well in racing scenarios. Its design makes it best suited as a coastal cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior diagrams are not readily available in public search results, general descriptions of the Irwin 35 Citation suggest a focus on functional and roomy accommodations, typical of Ted Irwin's designs for cruising boats. Owners have noted that the interior is "quite roomy". Some vessels feature updated interior decking, with materials like teak and holly offering improved aesthetics and access to bilge compartments. However, some owners of Irwin 35 models (which may or may not be the Citation variant) have noted a general lack of interior handholds, which could be a consideration for offshore passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 35 Citation generally regard it as a capable coastal cruiser, appreciative of its roomy interior. The boat's stability and stiffness are frequently praised, making for a comfortable motion in a seaway. However, some common concerns have emerged among owners of various Irwin models, including potential issues with gelcoat, as reported for the Citation 34. Like many older vessels, potential buyers should be vigilant about the condition of the hull, deck, sails, rigging, and engine, as well as the presence of corrosion around aluminum components and potential engine harness issues. Instances of keel-to-hull cracking have been noted in cases of severe impact, underscoring the importance of a thorough survey for any pre-owned vessel.