Spencer 35 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Spencer 35 Mk II began its production in 1961, following Spencer Boats Ltd.'s strategic pivot in the early 1960s from plywood construction to fiberglass. This transition saw the company become a pioneer in the use of cored hulls. John Brandlmayr, the prolific designer behind many of Spencer's successful models, instilled a design philosophy prioritizing stability, safety, and comfort, making his vessels well-suited for blue water passages.

The Mk II version of the Spencer 35 introduced several key enhancements over its predecessor. While retaining the fundamental hull shape, it featured a new foam-cored deck and an Airex-cored hull, a departure from the original's solid fiberglass construction. Other notable improvements included a molded toerail and hull-to-deck joint, an extended coachroof that led to a more compact cockpit, a modified rudder, and a slightly different, higher aspect rig. These changes aimed to refine the boat's handling and overall functionality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 35 feet and a waterline length of 25 feet, the Spencer 35 Mk II presents as a substantial vessel for its size. Its displacement of 12,000 pounds and ballast of 4,200 pounds contribute to a high displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 343, indicating a heavy, stable cruiser designed for comfort in a seaway rather than light-air racing. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.35 suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze.

The masthead sloop rig, with a total sail area of 513 square feet, provides a sail area-to-displacement ratio of about 15.6. This further categorizes the Spencer 35 Mk II as a conservative cruiser, likely performing best in moderate to strong winds and offering a comfortable motion rather than exhilarating speed in lighter conditions. Her calculated hull speed is approximately 6.7 knots. The modified rudder and higher aspect rig introduced in the Mk II were intended to enhance her handling characteristics, suggesting an improved balance and responsiveness under sail. Many Spencer 35s have successfully completed offshore passages, reinforcing their reputation as capable ocean-going yachts.

Accommodations and Layout

The Spencer 35 Mk II, being a semi-custom build, did not adhere to a single "standard" interior layout. However, the design generally offered two cabins and could typically accommodate five berths. A distinguishing feature of the Mk II model was its significantly more spacious galley compared to the original Spencer 35. Noted yacht designer Ted Brewer reportedly praised the Mk II's galley layout as one of the best he had encountered on a boat of this size.

Owners typically describe the interiors as robust and well-finished, reflecting Spencer Boats' commitment to quality construction suitable for offshore conditions. Details on specific materials or ventilation systems are less standardized due to the semi-custom nature, but the overall ethos of the builder pointed to durable craftsmanship.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Spencer yachts, including the Spencer 35, consistently praise the enduring quality, seaworthiness, and classic lines inherent in John Brandlmayr's designs. The Spencer 35 earned a solid reputation as a semi-custom bluewater cruiser, with numerous examples successfully undertaking offshore passages. This history of successful long-distance cruising underscores the trust owners place in its robust construction and dependable performance in challenging conditions. The continued existence of an active Spencer Yacht Owners Group (SYOG) highlights the lasting appeal and satisfaction among those who sail these classic Canadian vessels.