Lagoon 35 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Lagoon 35 coincides with a pivotal moment for Lagoon Catamaran. While Lagoon was founded in 1984 as a specialized arm of Jeanneau Technologies Avancées, the Lagoon 35 began production in 1995, the very year the Beneteau Group acquired Jeanneau. This era saw Lagoon transitioning from its high-tech, racing-derived origins to becoming a dominant force in the cruising catamaran market under the expansive Beneteau umbrella. However, the Lagoon 35 itself was a distinct project, commissioned by Lagoon USA and built in the United States by TPI Composites, a builder also known for J-Boats and Alden Yachts.

Designers Gino Morrelli and Pete Melvin were tasked with prioritizing performance, making the 35 CCC a notable entry as the first American-designed catamaran in Lagoon's lineup. Its full designation, "Coastal Cruising Catamaran," accurately reflects its intended purpose: a capable and enjoyable vessel for coastal voyages rather than extreme offshore racing. Despite Lagoon's general philosophy of emphasizing comfort, volume, and safety for long-distance cruising, the 35 CCC diverged by aiming for a more performance-oriented profile.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lagoon 35 CCC is rigged as a fractional sloop and features twin keels, contributing to its maneuverability and shallow draft of 3.25 feet. With a length overall of 34.5 feet and a waterline length of 33.25 feet, coupled with a generous beam of 15.75 feet, the catamaran hull form inherently offers stability and expansive deck space. Its reported sail area of 620 square feet allows for lively performance, a testament to Morrelli & Melvin's design emphasis on sailing capabilities. Owners have noted its ability to sail "pretty darn fast".

Handling characteristics are enhanced by the layout of sail controls, with all lines leading to three cockpit-mounted, self-tailing winches, facilitating ease of single-handed operation. While designed for coastal cruising rather than extreme offshore conditions, its performance-focused design ensures an engaging sailing experience. A consideration for catamaran designs of this size is bridgedeck clearance, which on the Lagoon 35CCC is 25 inches when lightly loaded but reduces to 18 inches when fully loaded, potentially leading to wave slap between the hulls in certain sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Lagoon 35 CCC is widely praised for its excellent layout and high-quality finish, designed to maximize livability and natural light. Large windows on the sides of the saloon are a hallmark feature, providing panoramic views and flooding the interior with ambient light. The use of teak flooring, bulkheads, and accents, combined with lighter-toned pressure laminates and molded liners, creates a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the living spaces.

While specific details on the number and arrangement of berths, the galley, and the head compartments require detailed diagrams or direct inspection, the general consensus points to an "unbeatable cabin layout" and a "huge saloon". This expansive interior volume, characteristic of catamarans, allows for comfortable living and entertaining, making the Lagoon 35 CCC a very pleasant boat for extended stays aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Lagoon 35 CCC generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting the blend of quality construction, comfortable living spaces, and good sailing performance. The limited production run of just eleven units makes specific widespread owner-reported issues less documented than for more mass-produced models.

However, the general sentiment among owners is positive, appreciating its solid build and the capable motion of the catamaran hull. The "Lagoon Catamaran Owners forum" provides a platform for owners to connect and share experiences, reflecting a strong community around the brand. While some later Lagoon models have faced discussions regarding structural components, there is no direct evidence from the search results linking these specific issues to the Lagoon 35 CCC. Owners consistently value its well-executed layout and the joy of sailing a catamaran that prioritizes a balance of speed and comfort.