Southern Cross 35 Information, Review, Specs

The Southern Cross 35 officially began production in 1978 and was built by C. E. Ryder, a company known for its commitment to durable fiberglass construction, until its cessation of operations in 1990. The builder article highlights C. E. Ryder's focus on creating "good old boats" – classic designs with solid construction built to stand the test of time, an ethos clearly reflected in the Southern Cross 35. The boat is often referred to as the Gillmer 35, acknowledging its distinguished designer, Thomas C. Gillmer, a professor of Naval Architecture and a renowned figure in cruising yacht design. Gillmer's designs, including the Southern Cross line, were aimed at combining modern design elements with classic seaworthiness, resulting in vessels with improved speed and handling, specifically intended for serious cruising and long journeys. While information on specific design variations like MkI or MkII for the Southern Cross 35 is not prominent in search results, the overall design philosophy remained consistent: a sturdy cutter rig on a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, built to tackle challenging conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southern Cross 35, with its design focused on bluewater capability, exhibits sailing characteristics indicative of a heavy, stable cruiser rather than a light-air racer. Her calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.75 suggests a conservative sail plan, indicating a boat that is robust and easily managed in stronger winds, though perhaps not exceptionally spirited in very light conditions. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.325, combined with a lead fin keel, points to a moderate level of initial stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas effectively. The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 360 firmly places the Southern Cross 35 in the heavy displacement category, underscoring its design as a substantial, sea-kindly vessel built for comfort and safety offshore. Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Southern Cross 35 as a toughly built, well-balanced cutter designed for safe, comfortable, and fast passage-making. The cutter rig, with the mast installed almost midships, contributes to the boat's balanced handling, a valuable trait for extended voyages. Its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder are features that provide good tracking and control, even in challenging sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions for the Southern Cross 35 are not consistently available, the interior layout of these vessels is typically configured for comfortable cruising. Grounded searches indicate that the Southern Cross 35 often features a traditional interior arrangement suitable for a 35-foot offshore cruiser. A common layout might include a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment, a salon with opposing settees (which often convert to berths), a galley, and a quarter berth or additional sleeping area aft. Interior finishes commonly feature wood trim, reflecting the "good old boat" aesthetic that C. E. Ryder was known for. Owner accounts suggest that some boats have had their interior surfaces, such as Formica, replaced during refits, indicating a commitment to maintaining a classic appearance. Storage is generally considered ample for a cruising boat of its size, and ventilation is typically achieved through dorade boxes and opening ports, though the plywood dorade boxes have been noted as a potential area for maintenance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Southern Cross 35 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often highlighting its suitability for offshore cruising and its dependable nature in various sea conditions. Many view it as a capable ocean-going vessel, affirming designer Thomas Gillmer's intent for a "go anywhere" boat. The boat's robust build quality, a hallmark of C. E. Ryder production, is a frequently mentioned strength, contributing to its lasting appeal and presence on the used boat market. Common maintenance points or areas requiring attention noted by owners might include the original plywood dorade boxes, which could require re-bedding or replacement over time, and general upkeep typical of older fiberglass boats. A strong owner community exists for Southern Cross sailboats, providing a valuable resource for support and shared knowledge, which underscores the enduring popularity and cherished status of these classic designs.