Thomas 35 Information, Review, Specs

The Thomas 35 was first introduced in 1988, a product of collaboration between designers Graham & Schlageter and builders Thomas Marine, which later became Tartan Marine. The design was conceived as a "racer-cruiser," aiming to offer an optimal balance between competitive sailing performance and comfortable living spaces. Tartan Yachts, known for its commitment to innovation and robust construction since its inception in 1960, applied its manufacturing expertise to the Thomas 35. During this era, Tartan was transitioning towards advanced materials and construction techniques, including the use of infused epoxy for hulls and decks, ensuring a strong and durable vessel.

Throughout its production run, which continued into at least 1997 for some hulls, the Thomas 35 primarily maintained its fractional sloop rig, though some later boats were delivered with a masthead rig, offering a variation in sail plan. The boat was built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, and a lead fin keel, reflecting Tartan's emphasis on quality and performance-oriented design 1, 4, Builder Article.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Thomas 35 exhibits a compelling blend of performance attributes, stemming from its carefully considered design ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio (ratio_sa_disp) of approximately 24.6, the Thomas 35 is indicative of a boat with excellent light-air performance, capable of moving well in softer breezes. Its ballast to displacement ratio (ratio_bal_disp) of around 0.45 suggests a stiff and stable platform, well-equipped to stand up to stronger winds and maintain its canvas.

Despite its robust sail plan, the displacement to length ratio (ratio_disp_lwl) of approximately 345 places the Thomas 35 firmly in the heavier displacement category for a boat of its length. This combination implies a powerful boat that, while capable of speed, also offers a comfortable and stable motion in a seaway, characteristic of a more traditional cruiser. Owners frequently praise the Thomas 35 for its easy handling, especially off the wind, where it is known to "fly" at planing speeds in heavier air. The large main sail contributes significantly to its power and responsiveness, leading some to describe its handling as "dinghy-like" in its sensitivity. The fin keel provides splendid maneuverability, though this comes with the trade-off of potentially less directional stability compared to a full keel. Overall, the Thomas 35 is recognized as an easily driven boat that handles well in various conditions, including high winds and rough seas, thanks to its robust build quality.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom details are not universally available, the Thomas 35 was designed with a focus on providing comfortable cruising accommodations in addition to its racing prowess. The interior layout typically features a well-appointed cabin, designed for liveability. Common features found on the Thomas 35 include a hot and cold cockpit shower, and updated water and diesel tank gauges. The boat boasts a fresh water capacity of 35 gallons (132 liters) and a fuel capacity of 20 gallons (76 liters), suitable for extended cruising. While detailed interior diagrams are not provided in the primary data, reviews and sales listings often highlight a functional arrangement, making the Thomas 35 a suitable option for weekend trips or longer voyages for a family or small crew.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Thomas 35 consistently commend its solid construction and robust build quality, emphasizing its ability to handle challenging weather conditions, including high winds and significant seas. The boat is often described as a versatile "cruiser-racer" that successfully combines performance with comfort, making it an ideal choice for those who value both. Owners particularly appreciate its ease of handling, especially in strong winds, where it is known to perform exceptionally well downwind. Many owners have also undertaken extensive upgrades and optimizations to enhance the boat's racing capabilities, highlighting its potential for competitive sailing.

While generally well-regarded, some owner discussions touch upon common maintenance considerations typical of boats of its age. These might include monitoring fuel tanks for potential rust issues and addressing soft spots on the deck. However, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with a strong community of owners who actively engage in maintaining and optimizing their vessels.