Salona 34 Information, Review, Specs

The Salona 34 emerged from Salona Yachts' commitment to crafting sailboats that excel in both racing and cruising, a mission that began with the company's inception in 2002. Produced from 2008 to 2011, the Salona 34 was a product of the design talents of J&J Design, a Slovenian maritime architectural bureau. Salona's overarching philosophy during this period was to build yachts capable of achieving excellent results without sacrificing ease of handling or comfort 5, 12, builder article. The builder, AD Boats Ltd. in Solin, Croatia, was known for its innovative construction techniques, particularly the use of cutting-edge vacuum infusion technology with vinyl ester resin and tri-axial oriented laminates for the hull and deck. A hallmark of Salona's structural integrity, prominently featured in the 34, is the integrated stainless steel internal frame, which supports the keel and mast, contributing to exceptional strength, stiffness, and safety at sea. While the Salona 35 later superseded the 34, sharing a similar hull that was slightly tweaked, the 34 was offered with options including a deeper keel for enhanced racing performance, alongside its standard configuration.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salona 34, with a length overall of just under 33 feet and a waterline of 30.05 feet, is characterized by its balanced performance capabilities. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.53 suggests a boat that is lively and capable in light air, providing good acceleration and maintaining speed in varied conditions. A displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 177.72 classifies the Salona 34 as a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel, distinguishing it from heavier, more traditional cruisers. While its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.285 is moderate, the builder's unique stainless steel internal frame significantly enhances the yacht's overall stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a breeze effectively.

Sailors often describe Salona yachts as fast yet not "flighty," indicating a stable and predictable motion through the water. The design philosophy emphasizes ease of handling, even with a reduced crew, making it suitable for competitive racing or comfortable family cruising. Its single spade rudder ensures responsive steering, while the bulb keel contributes to its upwind performance and stability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Salona 34 is designed for comfortable cruising, typically featuring a two-cabin, one-head layout that offers practical living space. While specific headroom figures vary, the overall design aims for spaciousness and an inviting atmosphere below deck. The typical arrangement includes a V-berth forward, a comfortable salon with seating and a dining table, a functional galley, and a quarter berth aft. Interior finishes generally reflect a focus on quality, utilizing materials that combine durability with aesthetic appeal. Based on the builder's reputation, the general finish quality would incorporate well-executed wood trim alongside fiberglass elements, providing a blend of traditional and modern yacht styling. Thoughtful design aims to maximize storage options throughout the boat, essential for longer cruises. Ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights, ensuring airflow in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive aggregated owner reviews for the Salona 34 are not readily available, the Salona brand, as a whole, is praised for its robust construction and the blend of performance with cruising comfort. Owners generally appreciate the solid build quality, which is reinforced by the unique stainless steel internal frame, contributing to a secure feeling at sea. The easy handling characteristics make it a popular choice for those who enjoy both competitive sailing and leisurely trips, even when sailing shorthanded.