Wasa 34 Information, Review, Specs

The Wasa 34 commenced production in 1985, emerging from the Södertälje, Sweden-based Wasa Yachts, a company known for its "highest quality and reliability" and a distinct "Scandinavian high quality work" ethos. The builder's philosophy during this era focused on crafting durable, well-finished yachts that would provide lasting enjoyment for their owners. Wasa Yachts itself evolved from a service-oriented business, suggesting a deep understanding of what boat owners truly value in a vessel.

The Wasa 34 was designed by Leif Ängermark. Notably, the model was offered in two distinct versions: a "Standard" and a "Racer/Cruiser." The Racer/Cruiser variant was a direct evolution from Wasa's successful ¾-ton racing designs, indicating an emphasis on performance. The Standard version featured a different interior layout and, according to some reports, was also manufactured by Vordingborg Yachts in Denmark. This dual-version approach suggests an effort to cater to different sailing priorities, whether outright speed or more comfort-oriented cruising.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wasa 34's design ratios provide insight into its performance characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 20.0, the Wasa 34 exhibits excellent light-air performance, allowing it to move efficiently even in lighter breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 0.41, points to a stiff and stable hull, capable of standing up well to stronger winds and providing a secure, comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at roughly 220, places the Wasa 34 in the moderate displacement category, suggesting a good balance between speed and load-carrying capability, leaning towards a more performance-oriented profile. Compared to similar sailboats, the Wasa 34 is considered more comfortable than 24% of its peers, suggesting a balanced approach to design that doesn't sacrifice comfort entirely for speed. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat handles predictably, offering responsive steering and a good turn of speed for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Wasa 34 are not extensively documented in widely available resources, it is known that the Standard and Racer/Cruiser versions featured different internal arrangements. Generally, Wasa Yachts were known for robust construction and a superior finish. It has been noted that the Wasa 34 was designed with a comparatively spacious hull, offering more interior volume than 58% of similar sailboat designs. This suggests that despite its performance aspirations, the Wasa 34 likely provides a comfortable living space below decks, accommodating typical cruising amenities. Owners could expect a practical layout, often featuring a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a galley, and a navigation station, along with a marine head. The quality of materials and finish, consistent with Wasa's reputation, would have been high, emphasizing durability and classic Scandinavian aesthetics.