Seahawk 34 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The Westerly Seahawk 34 entered production in 1984 and continued until 1988, with approximately 125 units built. Westerly Marine Ltd., founded in 1963 in Waterlooville, Hampshire, established a reputation for manufacturing yachts with a focus on robust construction and livability. The Seahawk 34 exemplifies this ethos, designed to be a well-built and well-finished yacht. Its designer, Ed Dubois, aimed to create a superb new cruising yacht that was stiff, well-balanced, and easily handled by a small crew. Notably, the Seahawk 34 shared its hull with the Westerly Falcon 34. Towards the end of its production run, the design was updated with an extended "sugar scoop" transom and bathing platform, leading to its renaming as the Seahawk 35 in 1988. A significant variation offered was the choice between a fin keel, which allowed for a deeper draft of 4.92 feet, and a twin (bilge) keel option, reducing the draft to 3 feet 11 inches, making it suitable for shallower waters and drying out.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Seahawk 34 exhibits characteristics indicative of a comfortable and capable cruiser. With a total sail area of 732 sq ft (main and genoa) and a displacement of 12,699 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio is approximately 21.39. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Seahawk 34 is well-powered and capable of performing effectively in lighter air conditions. The boat's Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.451. This high percentage of ballast, at 45.1%, contributes significantly to its inherent stiffness and stability, enabling the yacht to stand up well to strong winds and provide a comfortable motion when sailing in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 288.0, places the Seahawk 34 firmly in the category of a moderate-to-heavy displacement cruiser. This indicates a solid, substantial vessel designed for comfort and seakindliness rather than outright racing performance. Anecdotal accounts confirm that the Seahawk 34 is a stiff, well-balanced, and fast cruising yacht that is easily handled, close-winded, and well-mannered under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The Seahawk 34 features a center cockpit design, which is a key element in its interior layout, providing improved protection while sailing and optimizing the internal volume. Reviewers frequently highlight its excellent interior layout with good standing headroom throughout the vessel. The saloon is described as light, airy, and well-finished, often featuring an ash finish to the bulkheads complemented by quality teak trim. The typical arrangement includes two cabins, offering berths for 5 to 7 individuals. Details from various sources suggest a practical and comfortable living space, well-suited for extended cruising with family or friends.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Seahawk 34 generally praise its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, aligning with Westerly's reputation for durable, family-friendly cruisers. Many appreciate its spacious center cockpit, which enhances safety and offers a well-protected helming position. The generous interior volume, good standing headroom, and comfortable layout are frequently cited as significant strengths, making the boat a pleasant liveaboard or extended cruiser. A recurring maintenance issue noted by some Westerly owners across models, including potentially the Seahawk, is the tendency for original headlinings to develop problems, though this is often considered more of a cosmetic than a structural concern. Owners consistently find the Seahawk 34 to be a capable and easily managed yacht, even for a crew of two.