Sun Rise 34 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sun Rise 34 was produced by Jeanneau between 1984 and 1989, with a total of 629 hulls built, indicating its success and popularity during that era. The design, credited to Jacques Fauroux (Groupe Fauroux), embodies Jeanneau's prevailing design philosophy of the period: clean lines and a fast hull form that do not compromise on comfort. During this time, Jeanneau, despite a period under the ownership of US-based Bangor Punta before reverting to French ownership in the 1990s, consistently aimed to produce "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities.

The Sun Rise 34 was offered in several configurations to cater to different owner preferences. Beyond the standard fin keel version, a keel/centerboard (lifting keel) variant was also available, offering greater versatility for shallow waters. Furthermore, the model was available in 'Team' and 'Owners' versions; the 'Owners' version typically featured a roomier two-cabin layout, while the 'Team' version was noted as being more "austere," suggesting a configuration potentially geared towards a more performance-oriented or larger crew capacity setup.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sun Rise 34 is generally regarded as a great and fast-sailing boat, capable of performing successfully in regattas while still offering decent comfort for cruising. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.37, the Sun Rise 34 is characterized as a moderately powered vessel. This ratio suggests good performance in lighter winds, allowing it to move efficiently, but it is not an extreme light-air specialist or a dedicated racing machine.

Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) stands at around 33.39%. This indicates a moderate level of stiffness, meaning the boat will stand up to its canvas reasonably well in a breeze, though it may require reefing sooner than a boat with a higher ballast ratio. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 180.17 classifies the Sun Rise 34 as a lighter-end cruiser for its size. This lighter displacement, combined with its 29.5-foot waterline length, contributes to its "fast hull form" and "modern styled fast cruiser" reputation, offering performance competitive with larger vessels of its era. Owners have noted its good balance and behavior across different sea states, contributing to a comfortable motion underway.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details from the provided data are limited, the Jeanneau Sun Rise 34 is known for a smart and usable interior layout, embodying Jeanneau's commitment to "liveable boats". The 'Owners' version, in particular, offers a roomy two-sleeping cabin configuration, which was a significant appeal for cruising families. Many examples of the Sun Rise 34 provide six berths, including a comfortable double aft cabin.

Based on general owner descriptions and reviews, the interior typically includes a functional V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a compact galley, and a enclosed head compartment. The use of materials often features a blend of fiberglass surfaces with warm wood trim, creating a pleasant and durable interior finish. Storage is generally considered adequate for cruising, and ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights. Some individual boats have even seen additional custom teak interior work, enhancing their aesthetic and functionality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Rise 34 consistently praise its solid construction and comfortable motion, echoing Jeanneau's reputation for quality during that vintage. Its "timeless design" is frequently highlighted as a strength, allowing the boat to maintain its appeal over the years. Many owners appreciate its spaciousness for a 34-foot boat, often finding the layouts with three usable cabins or a good double aft cabin particularly appealing for family cruising. The boat's performance under sail, often described as "fast" and "successful on the regatta course," is also a recurring positive, indicating its capability as both a comfortable cruiser and a fun sailboat for spirited performance.

While comprehensive collective weaknesses are not widely documented online, specific owners have noted potential issues such as original deck fittings needing re-bedding over time due to leaks, which is common for boats of this age. One specific instance of a leaking diesel tank requiring significant repair has also been reported, though this may not be a widespread systemic issue. Overall, the Sun Rise 34 is generally regarded as a robust and rewarding vessel for its owners, often leading to long-term ownership.