Alberg 35 Information, Review, Specs

The Alberg 35 entered production in 1961, building upon the success of Pearson's groundbreaking Triton, and continued to be manufactured until 1967, with approximately 280 units built. Carl Alberg, a pivotal figure in Pearson's early design identity, crafted the Alberg 35 with a vision for "strictly family-cruising boats," eschewing more modern yacht design trends. His designs, including the Alberg 35, are characterized by a "skinny" hull form, long overhangs, low freeboard, a large mainsail, and a smaller foretriangle, consistent with the prevailing Cruising Club of America (CCA) rating rule of the era. This design ethos aimed for stability and comfort over outright speed. During its production run, Pearson Yachts, under the ownership of Grumman Allied Industries from 1961, was a pioneer in fiberglass construction, known for its commitment to robust building and making sailing more accessible. The Alberg 35 was offered with options for either tiller or wheel steering and featured two distinct interior arrangements. It was available from the factory as either a sloop or a yawl rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alberg 35's design translates into predictable and comfortable sailing characteristics, typical of classic CCA designs. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.15, the Alberg 35 is moderately powered, suggesting it performs best in a good breeze rather than light air. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 42% indicates a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heeling. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 407 signifies a heavy displacement boat, contributing to its reputation as a "well found seaboat". While by contemporary standards, the Alberg 35 is considered a relatively slow boat for its length, its long keel provides exceptional directional stability, making it track well in a seaway and offering a comfortable motion for offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest overall length, the Alberg 35 is lauded for providing an "exceptional amount of room below decks". Owners frequently appreciate the generous standing headroom, which measures 6 feet or more throughout much of the interior, specifically ranging from 6 feet in the forward stateroom to 6 feet 4 inches in the main cabin. The berths are also notably long, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements measuring 6 feet 4 inches in the main cabin and 6 feet 5 inches elsewhere. Typically arranged with a two-cabin layout, the interior includes numerous bunks, and some configurations feature a dinette where the table can be lowered to form a wide additional bunk. The interior decor reflects its early 1960s origin, described as "very period", often incorporating solid teak frames alongside materials like Formica. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a head, a salon with settees and a table, and a galley, providing a functional and comfortable space for coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Alberg 35 generally express deep affection for their boats, often stating they "love their A35s, warts and all". The enduring appeal stems from their robust construction, sensible design, and classic aesthetic. Many Alberg 35s continue to be actively sailed, providing pleasure and adventure to their owners decades after their construction. Common praises include the boat's solid build quality and its comfortable motion in various sea states. However, like many vintage vessels, owners occasionally note minor gripes related to cosmetic imperfections or the need to update outdated original equipment. Some owners have also reported that certain aspects of the original construction have led to problems over time, though specific details beyond general "cosmetic defects, and outdated equipment" are less commonly cited in broad owner reviews. The active and passionate owner communities further attest to the Alberg 35's lasting legacy and the strong bond among those who sail them.