GK 34 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Westerly GK 34 began in 1980, marking a distinct offering from Westerly Marine Ltd. in the United Kingdom. It is important to note that this builder is distinct from the American "Westerly Marine Inc." in California, which focused on custom, high-performance vessels using advanced composites. The UK-based Westerly, known for its broader range of production yachts, collaborated with Ed Dubois, a designer celebrated for his expertise in high-performance racing boats. Dubois's philosophy for the GK 34 was to combine his racing experience with the practicalities of a cruising boat, resulting in a design that could perform well on the racecourse while offering a comfortable platform for extended voyages.

During its limited production run, the GK 34 saw a notable variation in its construction. While most models featured a fiberglass hull with an iron keel, two special "Grand Prix" versions were constructed with Kevlar hulls, a cutting-edge material for the era. These Grand Prix models also incorporated a lead keel and a slightly deeper draft of 6.58 feet, compared to the standard 6.25 feet, hinting at their enhanced performance intentions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly GK 34's design ratios underscore its performance-oriented nature. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.15, the GK 34 exhibits excellent power for its size, suggesting strong performance in lighter winds and the ability to accelerate quickly. Its high Ballast to Displacement Ratio of nearly 55% indicates a very stiff and stable hull, allowing it to stand up to significant wind without excessive heeling. This robust stability makes for a more comfortable motion in a seaway and inspires confidence in challenging conditions. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 177 (calculated using displacement in long tons), the GK 34 falls into the lighter end of the cruiser spectrum, indicating a more agile and performance-focused boat compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers.

Anecdotal reports confirm these characteristics, with owners consistently describing the GK 34 as a vessel that "sails well, though - fast and well balanced". It is recognized as a "fast and very capable sea going cruiser / racer," renowned for its speed and responsive handling. Some analyses suggest the boat is "slightly overrigged," meaning it carries a generous amount of sail for its displacement, which further contributes to its lively performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing credentials, the Westerly GK 34 was designed with a "spacious, comfortable interior suitable for extended cruising". The cabin is typically finished with marine ply and hardwood, providing a traditional and robust feel. While specific detailed layouts can vary, the GK 34 generally features a functional arrangement typical of a 34-foot cruiser-racer of its era, including a galley and ample water capacity of 30 gallons. Compared to pure racers, its "higher superstructure meant more room below," though some describe the interior as "a bit spartan, even by the standards of the early 80s". This combination of practicality and space makes it well-suited for both competitive sailing and comfortable weekends or longer passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly GK 34 frequently commend its solid construction and excellent sailing characteristics, appreciating its balance of speed and stability. The robust build quality of Westerly yachts generally translates to a durable vessel. However, a common maintenance concern noted across many Westerly models of this period, including the GK 34, is the potential for the original headlining to require replacement over time. Despite this, the GK 34 continues to be sought after by those who value a capable, fast, and relatively rare cruiser-racer.