RL 34 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The RL 34's production commenced in 1979, emerging from the shipyard of Rob Legg Yachts Ltd., a company that operated from 1950 until 1988. Rob Legg, a passionate yachtsman, aimed to create accessible yet capable sailing craft. For the RL 34 specifically, Legg's design philosophy centered on developing "a very easily driven hull and a small rig," ensuring the boat would not be "too difficult for the average family to handle." This commitment to user-friendliness informed its overall design, aiming for a balance of performance and ease of operation.

While the RL 34 was predominantly built with a swing keel, allowing for variable draft and access to shallower waters, a rarer fixed-keel coastal cruiser version was also produced, demonstrating the builder's adaptability to different sailing needs. The boat features a fiberglass solid hull and deck construction, reflecting the company's transition to modern manufacturing methods for efficiency and consistency.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The RL 34's design ratios underscore its intended purpose as a balanced and manageable cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.04, the RL 34 is moderately powered, suggesting a boat that is easily handled and does not require a large crew for optimal performance. This aligns with Rob Legg's goal for a vessel suitable for the "average family". Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 182.9 indicates a light-to-moderate displacement for its waterline length, suggesting an easily driven hull form. Indeed, the designer focused on a "very easily driven hull", which contributes to its performance even with a conservative sail plan.

The boat's Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 40% contributes to its inherent stability. This indicates a good amount of ballast relative to its overall weight, allowing the RL 34 to stand up to a breeze well and providing a "reasonably stable / stiff and good righting capability if capsized." Equipped with a fractional sloop rig, the RL 34 benefits from smaller headsails, which simplify tacking and make the boat more forgiving for both cruising and racing. Anecdotal accounts suggest the RL 34 is "slightly under powered" but makes up for it with an efficient and "speedy hull design," allowing it to perform well for its class.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the RL 34 is designed with comfort and family cruising in mind, offering generous living spaces for a vessel of its size. A notable feature is the nearly 2 meters (approximately 6 feet 6 inches) of headroom in the main saloon, contributing significantly to a comfortable onboard experience. The layout typically includes ample room for a family, making it suitable as a liveaboard yacht. While specific diagrams vary, common arrangements for 34-foot cruisers of this era would generally include a V-berth forward, a main saloon with opposing settees and a table, a galley area, a dedicated head compartment, and often quarter berths aft. Owners note the presence of a "Good Size Chart" table and easy access to the electrical switchboard and communications equipment, enhancing its practicality for cruising. The overall impression is one of a well-planned and comfortable interior, prioritizing functionality and liveability.

Owner's Perspectives

The RL 34 benefits from a strong and active owner community, particularly visible through online forums and associations dedicated to Rob Legg yachts. Owners frequently praise the RL 34's robust build and its suitability for extended coastal cruising and even some offshore passages, with discussions often revolving around what modifications are needed for more demanding voyages. Owners consistently highlight the boat's comfortable motion in a seaway and its general ease of handling, aligning with Rob Legg's initial design goals. A recurring point of discussion in some owner circles, particularly concerning American-built versions, mentions a design feature where a cavity between the cabin floor and hull, filled with wood, can become waterlogged over time, potentially adding unintended weight. However, for its primary Australian-built fleet, the hull is generally regarded as solid with no widespread reports of such issues. The enduring appeal of the RL 34 is a testament to its practical design, solid construction, and the supportive network of its enthusiasts.