Seahawk 35 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The Seahawk 35's production run spanned from 1988 to 1990, with 40 units built during this period. Her design lineage traces back to the Westerly Seahawk 34, introduced in 1984. The 35-foot model distinguished itself by incorporating a "sugar scoop" transom and bathing platform, extending the stern and enhancing accessibility and deck space. The Seahawk model shares its hull design with the Westerly Falcon, indicating a proven and efficient underwater profile.

During this era, Westerly Marine, as a builder, demonstrated a commitment to constructing vessels for both racing and cruising, often focusing on advanced construction techniques for its time, even if the primary focus for production models like the Seahawk 35 remained robust fiberglass. The company's approach, described as innovative, aimed to push boundaries in marine construction materials and design to meet the demands of discerning clients. The Seahawk 35 was primarily offered with a fin keel, though a twin keel (bilge keel) option was also available, catering to different cruising grounds and preferences for drying out. Minor design modifications were made throughout its short production run, reflecting the builder's continuous refinement of its offerings.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly Seahawk 35, with its design and specifications, presents as a heavy displacement fractional sloop, intended for stable and comfortable passage making rather than outright racing. Her displacement of 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) and a waterline length of 27.0 feet (8.23 m) result in a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 317.5. This high D/L ratio firmly places her in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway and a strong ability to carry stores for long trips.

The yacht's Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, calculated at around 20.12 (using a total sail area of 732 sq ft for main and genoa), indicates good performance, particularly in light to moderate winds. A ratio above 18 suggests she won't be sluggish in lighter air, providing decent speed for a cruiser of her size and weight. Furthermore, the Seahawk 35 boasts a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 40.78%. This relatively high percentage signifies excellent stability, allowing her to stand up well to a strong breeze and contributing to a secure and comfortable ride in challenging conditions. Owners often praise her solid construction and predictable handling characteristics, noting her ability to inspire confidence offshore. Her single spade rudder provides responsive steering, which is a desirable trait for a center-cockpit vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westerly Seahawk 35 is renowned for its spaciousness and comfortable layout, a hallmark of center-cockpit designs, offering good standing headroom throughout. While specific maximum headroom details are not available in the provided data, reviews and owner accounts consistently highlight the generous living spaces.

Typically, the layout includes a large aft cabin, often considered the owner's cabin, complete with an en-suite head, offering significant privacy and comfort. Forward of the main salon, there is usually a V-berth for guests and another head. The main salon often features a dinette to port and a settee to starboard, providing ample seating for dining and lounging. The galley is typically well-appointed with good storage and counter space, often situated along the passageway to the aft cabin or as part of the main salon. Throughout its production, Westerly offered various interior finishes, allowing for some customization and variation in the use of materials, which generally included warm wood trims alongside robust fiberglass moldings. Good ventilation is typically achieved through numerous deck hatches and portlights, contributing to a bright and airy feel below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly Seahawk 35 consistently highlight several key strengths, particularly its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, making it a popular choice for liveaboards and long-distance cruisers. The spacious center-cockpit design and the generous aft cabin are frequently praised for offering exceptional comfort and privacy. Many appreciate the robust build quality, a characteristic often associated with Westerly yachts.

However, some common considerations and maintenance points have been noted by owners. Like many yachts of its era, issues with original deck fittings developing leaks, requiring re-bedding, can arise over time. Some owners of larger bilge-keeled Westerlys (though the Seahawk 35 was available with a fin or twin keel) have reported a "chequered history of keel problems," suggesting that thorough inspection of the keel attachment points is always prudent for any older vessel, regardless of keel configuration. Issues with headlining detaching, a common cosmetic problem in older boats, have also been mentioned but are generally considered more cosmetic than serious. Overall, the Seahawk 35 is regarded as a dependable and comfortable cruiser, offering significant value to those seeking a well-built, spacious yacht.