Pretorien 35 Information, Review, Specs

The Pretorien 35 emerged from the Wauquiez shipyard in 1979, with production continuing until 1987, resulting in 212 units built. The design was penned by Holman & Pye, a British naval architecture firm, who were favored by Henri Wauquiez himself after he was reportedly impressed with the sailing characteristics of their Elizabethan 29. The builder's founding philosophy, championed by Henri Wauquiez, emphasized unwavering durability and quality, aiming to create "extraordinary boats" designed for a lifetime of sailing.

True to this ethos, the Pretorien 35 features a solid fiberglass hull, often laid up with 18 layers, reflecting the robust construction methods prevalent at Wauquiez during that era. While rooted in the IOR (International Offshore Rule) measurement system, which influenced many performance cruisers of its time, the Pretorien 35's design, characterized by its fine entry, flush decks, and flowing sheerline, gives it a stylishly traditional appearance that some find more akin to British yacht design than French. For versatility, the model was offered with a standard maximum draft of 6.0 feet, and also a shallower shoal draft option of 5.0 feet., 12]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wauquiez Pretorien 35 is widely regarded for its admirable sailing qualities, balancing performance with stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.76, she demonstrates a commendable ability to perform well in moderate and lighter breezes. However, it is her impressive ballast to displacement ratio of around 50.87% that truly sets her apart, indicating exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to significant wind pressures. This high ballast ratio means she sails like a larger vessel when the wind strengthens, offering the seaworthy characteristics sought in a true offshore boat.

Owners consistently report that the Pretorien 35 sails "like a dream," exhibiting good speed for her weight and the ability to point close to 30 degrees into the wind. While she is noted for her stability, some advise reefing early to maintain a flatter, more efficient sailing attitude. Her moderate displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 207.54 further contributes to a solid, comfortable motion in a seaway, making her suitable for extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its dimensions, the Pretorien 35 is celebrated for its surprisingly spacious interior, particularly given its beam, and its layout is often compared favorably to more modern boats. The interior is typically brightened by the use of light-colored woods, along with ample ports and hatches that enhance natural light and ventilation.

The common interior arrangement features a roomy V-berth cabin situated forward. A well-appointed saloon follows, providing comfortable seating and dining space. Further aft, the layout typically includes a functional galley for meal preparation and a dedicated navigation station for passage planning. While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the overall impression from reviews is one of comfort and practicality for cruising. Well-maintained examples of the Pretorien 35 often feature interiors in fantastic condition, reflecting the high-quality materials and craftsmanship inherent to Wauquiez construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Wauquiez Pretorien 35 frequently laud its solid construction, comfortable motion, and inherent offshore capabilities. The boat is consistently praised for its high build quality and its excellent value as a robust, go-anywhere design. The sailing performance, including its stability in strong winds and its ability to point well, is a recurring strength highlighted by owners.

However, as with many vessels of its age, some common maintenance considerations have been noted. The original Volvo Penta MD11C engine, while generally reliable, can present challenges concerning parts availability and maintenance, prompting some owners to consider repowering. Additionally, some owners have reported minor blistering problems, a common issue for fiberglass boats from this era. Engine access, while functional, can be somewhat challenging. Despite these minor points, the Pretorien 35 benefits from an active and supportive owner community, with forums and online groups serving as valuable resources for shared knowledge and experiences.