Dragonfly 35 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Dragonfly 35 commenced in 2007, continuing the legacy of Quorning Boats, a company founded in 1967 by brothers Børge and Bent Quorning, pioneers in European trimaran construction. The builder's ethos has consistently revolved around crafting safe, high-quality multihulls that deliver exceptional performance, a principle clearly evident in the Dragonfly 35. Since 2002, the designs for newer Dragonfly models, including the 35, have been a collaborative effort between Jens Quorning and Steen Olsen, leveraging advanced 3D design and milling techniques to achieve precise and efficient hull forms. The Dragonfly 35 was designed with the specific goal of providing a luxurious ocean cruiser capable of offshore trips with up to six people, confidently handling strong winds, even exceeding Beaufort 8. A defining characteristic of the Dragonfly series, and central to the 35's design, is the patented "Swing Wing" system. This ingenious innovation, which has been standard on Dragonfly trimarans since 1989, allows the outriggers (floats) to be folded in, drastically reducing the boat's beam for easy berthing in standard marina slips or convenient road trailering. This practical feature enhances the boat's versatility without compromising its inherent sailing prowess.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dragonfly 35 is engineered for an exhilarating yet secure sailing experience, a hallmark of Quorning trimarans. With a reported sail area of 903 square feet and a displacement of 8598 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio calculates to approximately 34.3. This notably high figure indicates a boat that is exceptionally responsive and capable of performing well even in light wind conditions, promising a lively and engaging sail. Owners consistently praise the Dragonfly 35 as a fast cruising trimaran, known for its amazing speed and safe sailing characteristics. The vessel is often described as easily sailed singlehanded, benefiting from first-class sail-handling equipment. Its design ensures stable, upright sailing, a significant advantage of trimaran architecture that minimizes healing and enhances comfort underway. The theoretical hull speed is calculated at 7.87 knots, but as a performance trimaran, it is known to achieve impressive speeds that can surpass this figure, particularly on reaching points of sail. The boat's robust construction and design allow it to handle offshore conditions, with a capacity to endure winds exceeding 40 knots, making it a reliable choice for ambitious voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on performance, the Dragonfly 35 offers a well-appointed and comfortable interior, designed to be a "luxurious ocean cruiser." Below decks, the fitout is beautifully crafted, providing an optimal balance between living comfort and performance. The main cabin impresses with a generous standing headroom of 1.94 meters (approximately 6 feet 4 inches), creating a striking impression of space. The interior layout is designed for offshore trips, capable of comfortably accommodating up to six persons. Natural light floods the main cabin through panoramic windows and a flush-mounted skylight, creating a cozy and airy atmosphere. While multihulls typically offer less storage space below deck compared to monohulls of comparable size, the Dragonfly 35 is designed to maximize its interior volume for its class, aiming for the best accommodation-to-performance ratio.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Dragonfly trimarans, including the 35, form a strong and engaged community, consistently praising the brand's commitment to quality and performance. The build quality of Quorning Boats is frequently highlighted, with owners expressing satisfaction with the solid construction and overall reliability of their vessels. The Dragonfly 35 is regarded as a "fabulous boat," celebrated for its exciting performance and the secure sailing experience it offers. Its versatility, particularly the "Swing Wing" system that facilitates easy berthing and transport, is a highly valued feature among owners. The ability to comfortably undertake long, fast sea voyages with a crew further underscores its appeal as a capable and enjoyable cruising trimaran.