Nauticat 35 Information, Review, Specs

Designed by Kaj Gustafsson in collaboration with P. Siltala, the Nauticat 35 is often lauded for its contemporary aesthetic and its capability to perform admirably under sail, departing from the purely motorsailing identity of some of its predecessors. It quickly became the first in a line of successful wheelhouse sailing yachts for the Nauticat brand, setting a new standard for their pilothouse offerings.

History and Design

The Nauticat 35 began its production run in 1986, representing a significant evolution in the builder's approach to pilothouse yachts. Siltala Yachts, known for its pioneering use of fiberglass, applied its robust construction ethos to the 35, ensuring durability and consistent build quality. Designed by Kaj Gustafsson, with input from P. Siltala, the 35 was conceived to offer a more sail-oriented experience than earlier motorsailer models, yet retain the comfort and safety that defines the Nauticat brand. Its design featured a long fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration chosen to enhance sailing performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions. The hull was characterized by a "spacy" design, prioritizing interior volume and comfort. This model served as the precursor to the Nauticat 351, demonstrating its foundational importance in the development of Nauticat's pilothouse sailing yacht range. While the notes the possibility of it also being sold as a Nauticat 36, the 35 is clearly identified as a distinct and influential model in its own right.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.30, the Nauticat 35 is positioned as a capable cruiser rather than a light-air racer. Despite this moderate ratio, owners and reviewers consistently describe the Nauticat 35 as sailing "really well" and exhibiting good performance, particularly noting its capability in light weather due to its underwater design featuring a long fin keel and skeg-hung rudder. Its displacement to length ratio of 282.5 categorizes it as a heavy displacement vessel, promising a comfortable and stable motion even in challenging sea states, a hallmark of Nauticat's bluewater cruising philosophy.

The ballast to displacement ratio, at around 31.2%, might appear moderate on paper; however, the Nauticat 35 is frequently praised for being "quite stiff". This indicates that the hull form itself contributes significantly to its initial stability, allowing it to stand up well to wind without excessive heeling. The combination of its robust build and carefully designed underwater profile ensures a secure and balanced feel at the helm, enhancing confidence for offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Nauticat 35 is celebrated for its exceptionally roomy and comfortable interior, a key appeal for those planning extended periods aboard. The pilothouse design is a central feature, offering excellent visibility and an inside steering station, which significantly extends the comfortable cruising season. The interior is typically finished in teak, contributing to a classic and warm marine ambiance.

While specific headroom figures are not provided, the "spacy hull design" suggests generous living areas. Common layouts include a comfortable V-berth forward, a well-appointed head, a spacious salon with a dinette, a functional galley, and a substantial aft cabin, which is particularly noted for its size and placement. Storage is ample, designed to accommodate the needs of long-distance cruising. The design ensures optimal comfort for life on board, further enhanced by significant tankage, including 106 gallons of fuel and 132 gallons of water, catering to self-sufficiency on extended voyages [2,.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Nauticat 35 consistently praise its solid construction and overall seaworthiness, emphasizing its suitability for safe offshore sailing. Many highlight the comfort and protection offered by the pilothouse, which allows for year-round cruising and comfortable watch-keeping in inclement weather. The boat's ability to sail effectively, often noted as superior to earlier Nauticat motorsailers, is a frequently mentioned strength. One owner notably sailed their Nauticat 35 across the Atlantic, attesting to its robust capabilities.

While largely positive, some general feedback regarding Nauticat models suggests that the inherent weight of these robust vessels might make them less agile for single-handed operations without proper systems, though this specific concern is not consistently applied to the 35, which is praised for its handling. The specialized nature and solid build of Nauticats often translate to a higher market value, reflecting their quality and specific appeal. Overall, the Nauticat 35 fosters a strong sense of community among its owners, who appreciate its blend of traditional craftsmanship and practical design for comfortable, long-distance cruising.