MG 335 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of just under 35 feet, the MG 335 was conceived as a light displacement, fractionally rigged vessel designed to offer a reasonable compromise for both cruising and more spirited sailing. Her reputation as a wonderfully capable yacht has endured, with owners frequently praising her handling characteristics and overall performance.

History and Design

The MG 335 was first introduced in 1986 and remained in production until 1994, a period during which Northshore Yachts was known for its commitment to building robust and adaptable vessels from GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic). While Northshore is perhaps most famous for its innovative Southerly range, the company also produced the well-regarded Vancouver and MG lines, demonstrating a broader design and manufacturing capability. The MG 335 specifically was designed by Tony Castro, an influential figure in yacht design.

Castro's vision for the MG 335 was to create a cruiser/racer that balanced performance with semi-comfortable living spaces. This design philosophy resulted in a boat that could be competitive on the race course while still providing ample amenities for extended cruising. During its production, the MG 335 was offered with two keel options: a deep fin keel with a maximum draft of 6.25 feet or a shallower wing keel version, which allowed for access to more restricted anchorages. Notably, the MG 335 hull was also built in Canada by Canadian Sailcraft, where it was marketed as the CS 34, albeit with a different coachroof and interior layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The MG 335's design ratios underscore its performance-oriented yet stable characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.81, the boat is well-powered, suggesting good performance in lighter air conditions, where she can maintain momentum effectively. Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.426 (42.6%) indicates a relatively stiff and stable platform, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 187.58 places the MG 335 in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for her size, hinting at her agility and speed.

Owners and reviewers consistently describe the MG 335 as a yacht with great sailing performance in all wind conditions, capable of handling various sea states with confidence. She is noted for being fast, roomy, and well-mannered, making her suitable for both spirited racing and comfortable passage-making. Many MG 335s were equipped with self-tacking jibs and all lines led aft, enhancing her ease of handling for short or single-handed sailing. While the deep fin keel version is generally favored for upwind performance, the wing keel variant still sails very well, though it may require earlier reefing when heading into the wind.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the MG 335 is designed to offer a comfortable and functional living space, typically featuring six berths distributed across two cabins plus the main saloon. The layout includes a separate heads compartment with a sink. While the does not specify maximum headroom, reviews suggest a good head height throughout the interior.

The interior boasts a modular and slickly finished design, a characteristic of many cruiser/racers of the era. Owners often find the layout practical and inviting. However, the modular construction, while aesthetically pleasing, can sometimes make accessing all systems and fittings for maintenance a bit challenging. Depending on the specific build and owner modifications, some MG 335s may feature additional shelves and lockers not found as standard, providing enhanced storage solutions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the MG 335 for its robust construction and versatile nature, describing it as a "wonderfully capable cruiser/racer". Many attest to its solid sailing performance, highlighting its ability to outclass contemporaries like the Sigma 33 and Beneteau First 32 in certain aspects. The ease of handling, especially for those fitted with self-tacking jibs and well-organized cockpits, is a recurring strength. The boat's comfortable motion in a seaway and safe cruising experience are also highly valued.

However, like any yacht of its age, the MG 335 has some common considerations. Owners often advise prospective buyers to conduct a thorough survey, particularly since many of these boats have been raced hard. Specific areas to check include the carbon-reinforced shroud anchorage points in the hull, as some early models reportedly experienced issues there, and the general rigging connection points. Additionally, the "grid" system, a series of stiffeners designed to absorb keel loads, should be carefully inspected. While the modular interior is generally appreciated for its finish, the access to underlying systems for maintenance can be less straightforward. The choice between the fin and wing keel should also be considered based on intended usage, with some noting a slight trade-off in upwind performance for the shallower draft version.