Salona 35 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Salona 35's journey began with its production start in 2011, a testament to Salona Yachts' ongoing mission to create globally competitive sailing yachts. AD Boats Ltd., situated in Solin, Croatia, has always aimed for the pinnacle of quality, design, and winning capability, an ethos clearly embodied in the Salona 35. The design brief for the Salona 35 sought to create a dual-purpose vessel that could excel both on the racecourse and as a practical cruiser, a "holy grail" for yacht designers. Jason Ker's optimization of the design, particularly concerning its lead T-keel, was crucial in achieving its performance goals.

Salona's commitment to advanced building techniques is evident throughout the 35. Like other models from the builder, its hull and deck laminates are constructed using cutting-edge vacuum infusion technology with vinyl ester resin and tri-axial oriented laminates, contributing to a robust yet lightweight structure. A hallmark of Salona's structural integrity is the integrated stainless steel internal frame, which supports the keel and mast, providing exceptional strength, stiffness, and safety at sea by transferring tension from the keel to wider areas. During its production run, some variations emerged, notably the option of a single or twin wheel configuration, with the latter providing a convenient walk-through transom. The open aft transom design is also easily removed, further facilitating its use in racing scenarios.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salona 35 is engineered for spirited performance without compromising ease of handling. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.52, the boat exhibits good potential for performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating it can be easily driven and responsive. Its Displacement to Length ratio, around 192, places it firmly in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for its size, suggesting agility and a lively feel at the helm.

While the Ballast to Displacement ratio of roughly 22.6% appears low at first glance, it must be considered in the context of the Salona 35's design, which features a bulb keel and benefits from Jason Ker's optimization. This configuration concentrates weight efficiently at the lowest point, enhancing stability despite the lower overall ballast-to-displacement percentage. Reviews consistently praise the Salona 35 as fast, fun to sail, and remarkably balanced, capable of winning races while still providing a comfortable motion for cruising. Owners and reviewers often note its ability to stand up to wind, delivering a safe and controlled sailing experience across various conditions. The spade rudder provides precise control and responsiveness, contributing to its sporty handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Salona 35 is designed to offer a comfortable and functional living space typical of a modern cruising yacht, despite its performance aspirations. The standard interior layout typically features two cabins, a spacious saloon, and a well-appointed head. The use of light wood interiors combined with white GRP moldings creates a bright and contemporary atmosphere, enhancing the sense of space. Long cabin windows and rectangular ports in the hull allow ample natural light into the interior, further contributing to the airy feel.

While specific details on storage and ventilation require closer examination of individual boats, the general approach aligns with Salona's philosophy of balancing performance with practical cruising amenities. The saloon provides comfortable seating, and the galley, though compact, is typically well-equipped for preparing meals while at sea or at anchor. This blend of functionality and aesthetically pleasing finishes makes the Salona 35's interior suitable for weekend trips and more extended cruising adventures.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Salona 35 for its ability to deliver on its promise of a true performance cruiser. Many appreciate its solid construction and the inherent quality associated with Salona Yachts. The boat's dual nature, being equally at home on the racecourse and for relaxed family cruising, is a recurring highlight in owner feedback. Its ease of handling, even with a reduced crew, is often cited as a significant strength, making it accessible to a broader range of sailors. While specific common problems are not widely documented in general reviews, the overall sentiment points towards a well-regarded and capable vessel that provides a satisfying sailing experience for those who value both speed and comfort.