Allmand 35 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Allmand 35 is characterized by its predictable, if somewhat conservative, sailing characteristics. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio typically hovering in the 15.5 to 16 range, the boat requires a stiff breeze to truly come alive. In light air, the high wetted surface area of the hull can make the vessel feel sluggish, particularly when compared to more modern, lightweight fin-keel designs. However, as noted in historical reviews from Practical Sailor, which evaluated the 35's smaller sibling, the Allmand hull form is exceptionally "stiff," meaning it resists heeling and provides a sense of security to the crew in building seas.

Under power, the Allmand 35 is usually equipped with a Universal or Yanmar diesel engine. The boat’s weight and momentum make it a reliable platform for motoring through a chop, though the prop walk can be pronounced when backing into a slip. Owners often report that the boat tracks well due to the skeg-supported rudder, which offers more protection and directional stability than a spade rudder but results in a larger turning radius.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Allmand 35 is widely recognized for its "Tardis-like" interior, offering a volume of living space that was nearly unprecedented for a 35-foot vessel in the 1980s. The boat was offered in several configurations, the most notable being the "Tri-Cabin" layout. This arrangement provides two distinct private staterooms—one forward and one aft—separated by the main salon, making it an ideal choice for two couples or families with children.

The main cabin features an expansive 6-foot 4-inch headroom, a byproduct of the high freeboard and cabin trunk. The galley is typically U-shaped and positioned to starboard, designed for functionality at sea with deep sinks and ample storage. Because Allmand drew from its powerboat-building experience, the interior cabinetry often utilized a mix of teak veneers and molded fiberglass liners, which are durable and easy to maintain but lack the "all-wood" traditional aesthetic of some contemporary boutique builders. The Allmand 31 was the primary sibling model; it shared the same tri-cabin design philosophy on a smaller scale, though the 35 offers significantly more elbow room in the head and galley areas.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Allmand 35 with a focus on the structural longevity of its core materials and systems. While the hulls are solid fiberglass, the decks utilize a balsa core that is prone to saturation if deck hardware (such as stanchions and cleats) has not been periodically re-bedded.

• Deck Delamination: Use a phenolic hammer to sound the deck, particularly around the mast step and the chainplates. "Soft spots" indicate balsa rot that requires expensive repair.
• The "Allmand Smile": Check the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. Like many boats of this era with bolt-on keels, a hairline crack (often called a "smile") can develop. While often cosmetic, it should be inspected for signs of loose keel bolts.
• Aluminum Fuel Tanks: The original tanks are now reaching the end of their functional lifespan. Check for pitting or "white powder" corrosion, especially at the bottom of the tank where moisture may have collected.
• Portlight Leaks: The large, fixed windows in the cabin trunk are known to leak over time. Replacing the seals or re-glazing the acrylic is a common maintenance task for new owners.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer a formal manufacturer association, the Allmand owners' community remains active through localized groups and technical archives. The most prominent resource for technical data is the Allmand Sailboat Owners group, a dedicated segment of the broader cruising community that maintains digital copies of original brochures and wiring diagrams.

The Verdict

The Allmand 35 remains a high-value option for coastal cruisers who prioritize liveability and stability over raw speed. Its massive interior makes it feel like a 40-foot boat, providing a comfortable sanctuary for long weekends or extended coastal hops.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume with a true tri-cabin privacy layout.
• Sturdy fiberglass construction with a protected skeg-hung rudder.
• High stability and a comfortable "big boat" motion in heavy weather.
• Competitive pricing on the used market compared to better-known brands.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
• Aesthetics are dated, characterized by high freeboard and a boxy cabin trunk.
• Balsa-cored decks require diligent maintenance to prevent rot.
• Large turning radius makes tight marina maneuvering a challenge.