Maxi 35 Information, Review, Specs

The Maxi 35 entered production in 1986 and continued to be built until 1991, with approximately 20 units produced during this period. Her creation falls within a significant era for Maxi Yachts, a company founded in 1972 by Olympic medalist Pelle Petterson. Petterson's overarching design philosophy, which emphasizes quality, functionality, and design, is evident in every model he penned for Maxi, including the 35. The builder's ethos during this time focused on producing well-designed and robust fiberglass vessels, often utilizing sandwich construction for both the hull and deck to enhance durability and minimize maintenance. While specific variations like a "Mark I" or "Mark II" are not widely documented, the Maxi 35 was offered with a center cockpit and a furling mast, providing comfort and ease of handling. The design of the Maxi 35 is noted for incorporating a "slightly more speedy hull," suggesting a leaning towards performance within its cruising capabilities. The boat is also noted for its similarity to the Maxi Mixer, another moderate weight, good performing sailboat from the same builder.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Maxi 35 is characterized as a moderate displacement sailboat, balancing comfort with respectable handling. With a Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 240, she is neither excessively heavy nor ultralight, positioning her as a solid cruiser capable of covering distances. Her reported sail area of 495.14 square feet against a displacement of 11,684 pounds results in a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 15.21. This figure suggests that while she might be "slightly under powered" in very light wind conditions, she is well-suited for moderate to strong breezes without being overly tender.

A key indicator of her stability and stiffness is her impressive Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.434. This high ratio signifies that a significant portion of her weight is dedicated to ballast, contributing to excellent stability and a strong righting capability, allowing her to stand up to a good amount of wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Maxi 35 features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a combination typically found on boats designed for good maneuverability and responsiveness, complementing her overall handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Maxi 35, like many Swedish-built yachts of its era, typically features a traditional finish, often employing teak for the joinery. While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the design aims to offer a comfortable living space for its size. Reviews and images suggest a functional layout, including a navigation area with a wooden desk and a compact, wooden-finished bathroom. Given the common center cockpit configuration, the interior often provides a well-separated aft cabin, enhancing privacy. The emphasis is on practicality and durability, reflecting the builder's focus on robust construction materials and timeless design.