Sunbeam 34 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Sunbeam 34 in 1985 marked a continuation of Schöchl Yachtbau's tradition of producing high-quality sailing vessels, a legacy tracing back to their woodworking origins in 1838 and formal yacht building establishment in 1957. The yacht was designed by Anton de Dood Miglitsch, aligning with Sunbeam's overarching design philosophy that emphasizes high functionality and a comfortable sailing experience. This era saw Sunbeam Yachts solidify its reputation for meticulously built boats, often praised for their beautiful construction and exquisite interior finishes, stemming from their deep heritage in craftsmanship and commitment to modern materials like fiberglass (GRP) for the hull and deck. The collaboration with renowned naval architects like J&J Design (though J&J was established in 1983, their direct involvement with the 34 is not explicitly stated, but their general influence on Sunbeam designs is noted). While the exact production end year is not specified, the model was still being built in 1989, indicating a sustained production run. The Sunbeam 34 should not be confused with the later Sunbeam 34.2, which was a distinct design by Georg Nissen.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sunbeam 34, with its solid fiberglass hull and fin keel, is designed for stable and predictable sailing. With a reported sail area of 470 square feet and a displacement of 13,000 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) is approximately 13.61. This indicates it is a more moderate performer, not necessarily optimized for light air, but capable and comfortable in a variety of conditions. The boat’s displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 253.28 places it in the category of a moderate to heavier cruising yacht, suggesting a comfortable motion through waves rather than a lightweight, performance-oriented racer.

A key factor in a sailboat's stability is its ballast-to-displacement ratio. While the for ballast is absent, external sources indicate the Sunbeam 34 carries approximately 4,585 pounds (2080 kg) of lead ballast. This provides a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 0.35, contributing to its moderate stiffness and reassuring stability. Anecdotal descriptions suggest the Sunbeam 34 exhibits good sailing performance and sea-keeping abilities, with a fine bow that is noted for slicing through short, steep seas. Its design emphasizes blue-water marine characteristics, even for a yacht of its size, underscoring its suitability for offshore passages and confident handling in adverse conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sunbeam 34 is designed for comfort and functionality, reflecting Sunbeam Yachts' reputation for elegant and well-finished accommodations. The saloon features a generous headroom of approximately 6.07 feet (1.85 meters), contributing to a spacious and light feel below deck. The interior typically features rich Sapelli Mahogany with rounded edges, complemented by a classic teak and holly sole, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The layout generally includes two private cabins and a comfortable salon with seating. Standard arrangements usually feature a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a table, and a galley. While specific details on the galley and storage vary by individual boat and owner modifications, the overall impression is one of quality and ample space for a boat of its length. Ventilation is provided by multiple deck hatches, including four large Lewmar hatches and two smaller ones, some with blinds, along with two portholes. The boat also typically includes a stainless steel fuel tank of around 37 gallons (140 liters).