Santana 35 Information, Review, Specs

W.D. Schock, founded by William "Bill" D. Schock in 1958, established itself as a prolific builder of quality fiberglass yachts. During the Santana 35's production era, W.D. Schock was known for its robust construction, forward-thinking design, and commitment to accessible yet competitive sailing vessels, a legacy that the Santana series helped solidify.

History and Design

The Santana 35 emerged in 1978 from the design board of W. Shad Turner, intended as a racer-cruiser that would excel in both competition and family outings. The foundational design philosophy prioritized creating a one-design platform where racing success was primarily determined by skill rather than equipment. This emphasis aligned well with W.D. Schock's established ethos of crafting practical designs with robust construction. The company, known for specializing in fiberglass sailboats from its inception, applied its expertise to the Santana 35, utilizing solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck construction, reinforcing critical areas with marine plywood and additional fiberglass layers.

The production run of the Santana 35 concluded in 1983, but its legacy continued almost immediately. In 1984, the same hull design was repurposed by W.D. Schock to create the Schock 35. This evolution saw the vessel updated with a deeper keel and a taller, masthead rig, further enhancing its performance capabilities for competitive sailing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Santana 35 is widely regarded for its lively sailing performance and excellent handling characteristics, particularly in stronger winds. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.1, the Santana 35 possesses a generous sail plan, suggesting good performance in lighter air conditions, despite anecdotal reports indicating its strength in heavier breezes. This high ratio implies that the boat can generate substantial power relative to its weight, contributing to its reputation as a strong performer in PHRF racing.

The boat's ballast to displacement ratio of about 38.8% contributes to a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to wind effectively while maintaining a comfortable motion. Classified as a moderate displacement cruiser with a displacement to length ratio around 203.9, the Santana 35 strikes a balance between a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel and a heavier, more traditional cruiser. Owners often describe the boat as feeling "great to sail," noting that its fractional rig, with a foretriangle measuring approximately 250.58 sq ft and a main of 299.25 sq ft, remains surprisingly modern in its feel and efficiency.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Santana 35 is designed to offer a comfortable and functional space, complementing its racer-cruiser designation. While specific detailed layouts can vary, the design typically includes a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment, a central salon, and a galley. With a maximum headroom of 6.17 feet, the cabin provides adequate standing room for most individuals. The deck design, characterized by low cabin sides and a wide beam of 11.92 feet, facilitates ease of movement, both for efficient sail handling during racing and for comfortable relaxation. The "extremely large cockpit" is a notable feature, blending the needs of racing with comfortable cruising, offering ample space for both crew and leisure.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Santana 35 generally praise its robust construction and solid sailing characteristics, often highlighting its ability to perform well, especially in stronger breezes. Many consider it a "true classic" that feels responsive and well-balanced under sail. The enduring build quality, a hallmark of W.D. Schock, means that many older Santana 35s continue to be popular in the used boat market.

However, some owners have noted specific areas requiring attention. A recurring concern mentioned in owner forums is related to the keel support structure, with some reports of issues such as visible daylight at the front of the keel or small cracks near keel bolts, suggesting potential areas for inspection on older models. Additionally, some discussions have touched upon the use of balsa core in the hull construction, prompting concerns about its long-term integrity in boats of this vintage. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the Santana 35 generally maintains a positive reputation among its enthusiasts for its rewarding sailing experience.