North Wind 35 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

North Wind Yachts, founded in 1973 in Catalonia, Spain, established a reputation for producing high-quality sailing and motor yachts, drawing on the region's rich shipbuilding expertise. The launch of the North Wind 35 in 1987 reflects the shipyard's commitment to combining advanced technology with traditional artisanal skills. During this era, North Wind was known for robust blue-water capable vessels featuring meticulous finishes and comfortable, often luxurious, interiors. The company's design philosophy aimed to marry performance with liveability, a characteristic likely embedded in the North Wind 35's conception.

The hull is constructed from solid fiberglass, indicative of the sturdy build quality North Wind was known for, designed for durability and strength. Equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, the underwater profile suggests a balance between directional stability and maneuverability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The North Wind 35 is configured as a masthead sloop, boasting a generous sail plan of 533.42 sq ft, designed to deliver good sailing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.36, she is likely to perform respectably in lighter winds, offering an engaging sailing experience without being overly sluggish.

Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) stands at a solid 40.2% with 4409 lbs of iron ballast in a total displacement of 10979 lbs. This substantial ballast ratio contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 203.8 indicates a moderately heavy displacement cruiser, suggesting a robust vessel capable of handling various sea conditions, rather than a lightweight racer. This combination of ratios points to a boat that is both capable and forgiving, well-suited for extended cruising.

Power is provided by a 42 HP Mercedes 636 diesel engine, offering reliable auxiliary propulsion.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed as a mid-sized cruiser with a focus on comfortable accommodations, the North Wind 35's interior reflects the builder's emphasis on quality and liveability. While specific detailed layouts are not widely published, North Wind's reputation suggests a well-appointed interior with thoughtful use of space, characteristic of cruisers from the late 1980s. Typically, a vessel of this size and era would feature a comfortable main salon, a functional galley, a dedicated navigation station, and private sleeping cabins. North Wind's commitment to "meticulous finishes" and "luxurious interiors" implies that the boat would have featured quality wood trim, ample storage, and adequate ventilation for comfort during extended periods aboard. The generous beam of 11.75 ft would have allowed for a spacious interior volume, enhancing the feeling of comfort below deck.