Baba 35 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Baba 35 is a heavy-displacement cruiser, and its performance characteristics are dictated by a high Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio, typically hovering around 340. This mass provides a remarkably stable and "shippy" feel, allowing the vessel to punch through chop without the jarring motion common in lighter, modern fin-keel designs. In his own design reflections, Robert H. Perry has noted that the Baba series was intended to provide a balanced helm even when pressed, a feat achieved by carefully tuning the lead of the sail plan over the lateral plane of the full keel.

Under sail, the Baba 35 is not a light-air performer; it requires a steady breeze to overcome its substantial wetted surface area. However, once established in a blow, the boat tracks with remarkable tenacity. The cutter rig allows for versatile sail configurations, enabling the crew to reef down to a staysail and deep-reefed main while maintaining a centered effort of balance during heavy weather. Owners often report that the boat "finds its groove" at about 15 to 20 knots of wind, where its momentum allows it to maintain speed through swell that would stop smaller vessels.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Baba 35 is a showcase of Ta Shing’s legendary woodworking capabilities. The cabin is typically finished in high-grade, hand-rubbed teak, creating a warm, traditional atmosphere that is increasingly rare in contemporary production boats. The layout is optimized for offshore living, featuring a secure U-shaped galley to port of the companionway and a proper navigation station to starboard.

A defining feature of the Baba 35 is its generous headroom—rare for a 35-footer of this vintage—and its clever use of space. The salon usually features a wrap-around dinette that can convert into a double berth, complemented by a pilot berth or storage lockers. While the Baba 35 remained relatively consistent throughout its production run, it served as the conceptual predecessor to the Tashiba 36, which utilized a similar design philosophy but updated the hull form for slightly better performance. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Baba 30, which can feel cramped for long-term cruising, the 35 provides the necessary volume for dedicated water and fuel tanks required for extended land-fall hops.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Baba 35 has earned a reputation as a "cult classic" among the bluewater community. While it may not have the singular "celebrity" ownership of some vessels, it is a staple of the "Cruising Encyclopedia" literature. The design is frequently cited in Practical Sailor as a benchmark for used offshore cruising values, often praised for its "bulletproof" construction and the longevity of the Ta Shing hull. The boat's aesthetic appeal, often described as a "little ship," has made it a favorite subject for nautical photographers and authors documenting the traditional yachting movement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Baba 35 today requires a discerning eye, as these vessels are now entering their fourth and fifth decades of service. Prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas:

• Teak Deck Integrity: Like many Ta Shing builds of this era, the Baba 35 often features extensive teak decks fastened with hundreds of screws. Over time, the bungs can wear down and the bedding compound can fail, leading to moisture intrusion into the sub-deck core. A thorough percussion sounding or moisture meter test is essential.
• Chainplates: The original stainless steel chainplates are often glassed into the hull or tucked behind cabinetry. They are prone to crevice corrosion, especially where they pass through the deck. Given the age of these boats, many surveyors recommend proactive replacement if they are original.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The Baba 35 originally utilized black iron fuel tanks. These are notorious for rusting from the outside-in due to condensation or deck leaks. Replacing these tanks often requires significant surgery to the cabin sole or engine surround.
• Spar Condition: While many Baba 35s were delivered with aluminum masts, some early versions or custom orders featured wooden spars. These require specialized maintenance and should be checked for rot at the spreaders and the mast base.

Community & Resources

The Baba 35 benefits from a dedicated and technically proficient owner community. The most prominent resource is the Baba, Tashiba, Panda (BTP) Owners Association, which maintains an extensive archive of original blueprints, owner manuals, and specific "how-to" guides for maintaining Ta Shing builds. Because many of Robert Perry’s designs share DNA, the community often cross-references technical solutions with owners of the Baba 30 and 40, providing a deep knowledge base for DIY sailors.

The Verdict

The Baba 35 remains one of the most respected traditional cruisers on the second-hand market, offering a level of craftsmanship and security that is difficult to find in modern equivalents.

Pros:

• Exquisite Craftsmanship: The Ta Shing joinery is world-class and provides a luxury feel that modern liners cannot replicate.
• Offshore Pedigree: A proven circumnavigator with a motion comfort ratio that excels in heavy seas.
• Aesthetic Longevity: Its classic lines and double-ended profile ensure it remains a "head-turner" in any marina.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: The abundance of exterior teak requires significant seasonal labor or expensive refinishing.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and full keel make for slow progress in winds under 10 knots.
• Aging Systems: Original tanks and chainplates are likely reaching the end of their reliable lifespan and can be costly to replace.