Sovereign 35 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Sovereign 35 can be traced to the early seventies, a period when designers like Holman & Pye were crafting yachts capable of handling challenging sea conditions. The design brief for the Sovereign 35, often referred to interchangeably with the "Super Sovereign 35," emphasized robust construction and a sea-kindly nature, leading to its distinctive full keel and ketch rig. Production commenced in 1972, with J. W. and A. Upham Ltd. taking on the build. While Upham's legacy is primarily rooted in traditional wooden boat construction, particularly fishing trawlers, the Sovereign 35 represented a departure, being built with a solid fiberglass hull. This move into modern materials for this specific model showcased a pragmatic adaptation by the historic British builder to contemporary yacht construction methods, despite their enduring reputation for timber vessels. Production of the original Upham-built Sovereign 35 appears to have run until approximately 1975 or 1976. Notably, a later iteration, the Barbican 35, was a reworking of the Holman and Pye Super Sovereign 35 ketch, launched in 1987 as a masthead sloop with updated interiors, constructed by Barbican Yacht Construction. Some early examples of the Super Sovereign 35 also featured a wooden coachroof, adding to their classic appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sovereign 35's design prioritizes stability and comfort, making her well-suited for offshore passages. Her substantial displacement relative to her waterline length results in a Displacement to Length ratio of 415.29, marking her as a very heavy vessel. This high ratio contributes significantly to her solid, deliberate motion and ability to absorb the shock of waves, offering a more comfortable ride in rough conditions at the expense of light-air performance.

With a reported sail area of approximately 580 square feet and a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of 14.46, the Sovereign 35, as a ketch, is not designed for blistering speed in light winds but offers manageable power. The ketch rig configuration, with its divided sail plan, provides flexibility in sail handling and contributes to better comfort and stability, particularly when sailing downwind or on a broad reach. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of 38.1% indicates a good degree of initial stability, allowing her to stand up to a respectable amount of wind without excessive heeling. Owners and reviewers commend her full keel for excellent directional stability and tracking, making her a trustworthy vessel for long hauls. The Sovereign 35's robust build and handling characteristics have been proven through demanding voyages, with at least one documented single-handed North Atlantic crossing.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the Sovereign 35 was designed with the liveaboard and cruising sailor in mind, featuring a practical and comfortable interior layout. Typical arrangements found in Super Sovereign 35 models provide well-appointed accommodation for up to six people, centered around a comfortable saloon. The sleeping quarters generally include a double V-berth in the forepeak cabin and two quarter berths, offering ample sleeping capacity for a crew or family. The interior finish often features traditional wood trim, contrasting with the fiberglass hull, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Given its design as an offshore cruiser, emphasis would have been placed on functional storage for provisions and gear, and adequate ventilation to ensure comfort in varying climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sovereign 35 (and Super Sovereign 35) consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, often highlighting its ability to tackle challenging offshore conditions with confidence. The long keel contributes to a comfortable motion and excellent tracking, reducing steering fatigue on extended voyages. The ketch rig is appreciated for its versatility and ease of handling, especially when reefing or balancing the sail plan in stronger winds. Many owners view the Sovereign 35 as a robust and reliable platform for serious cruising, capable of taking them safely across oceans or along distant coastlines. Common maintenance considerations, typical of boats of this vintage, may include inspecting and re-bedding original deck fittings to prevent leaks, as is often noted with older fiberglass vessels. Forums and online communities dedicated to Sovereign sailboats provide a platform for owners to share experiences, virtues, and vices, fostering a community around this classic cruiser.