Ciclon 110 S — Information, Review, Specs

Michael Pocock·1981 – 1987·~16 hulls·Ruiz Franquelo
Approximate drawing

Hover a measurement to read its value

Hull type
Monohull · fin
Rig
Masthead Sloop
LOA
35.3' · 10.76 m
Displ.
12,125 lbs · 5,500 kg
First year
1981

The Ciclon 110 S is a rare, robust cruiserracer from the early 1980s, representing a unique collaboration between British naval architecture and Spanish craftsmanship. Designed by the esteemed British architect Michael Pocock and built by the Spanish shipyard Astilleros Ciclón (often referenced by the corporate name Ruiz Franquelo), the 110 S was produced in limited numbers, with approximately 16 units leaving the yard between 1981 and 1987. Measuring 35.3 feet (10.76 meters) in length, the vessel was conceived during an era when Spanish recreational boatbuilding was transitioning into highquality fiberglass production. It was designed to provide a seaworthy platform for Mediterranean coastal cruising and offshore passages alike. The model is part of a small family of designs that included the smaller Ciclon 85 and a twomasted ketch variant, simply titled the Ciclon 110.

Measurements

Dimensions 01

LOA
35.3 ft
LWL
28.51 ft
Beam
12.01 ft
Draft
2 ft
Max headroom
-
Air draft
-

Construction & hull 02

Construction
Fiberglass
Hull type
Monohull
Keel type
Fin
Rudder
1× Spade
Ballast
-
Displacement
12125 lbs
Water
-
Fuel
-

Rig & sails 03

Rig type
Masthead Sloop
P · main luff
-
E · main foot
-
I · fore ht.
-
J · fore base
-
Forestay (est)
-
Sail area
645 sqft

Calculations 04

SA/D ratio
19.55
Ballast/Disp.
D/L ratio
233.58
Comfort ratio
22.39
Capsize screening
2.09
Hull speed
7.15 kn

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Ciclon 110 S is characterized by its significant displacement and traditional underwater profile. With a displacement of approximately 12,125 lbs (5,500 kg), the boat carries a high Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 346, placing it firmly in the "heavy cruiser" category. This weight, combined with a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel with a spade rudder, results in a vessel that is exceptionally stable and comfortable in a seaway.

Sailing characteristics are marked by a high Motion Comfort Ratio (approximated at 33.0), indicating that the 110 S is less prone to the "jerky" motions found in lighter, modern flat-bottomed designs. While it may not possess the light-air acceleration of its contemporary French rivals, it excels when the wind rises above 15 knots, where its momentum and high capsize screening value (approximately 1.83) provide a sense of security during offshore passages. Owners often report that the boat tracks well and feels "stiff," thanks to a generous ballast ratio that allows it to carry its 645 square feet of sail area deep into a blow before needing the first reef.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Ciclon 110 S was designed with an emphasis on "habitabilidad," or livability, catering to the Spanish market’s preference for comfortable family cruising. The 12-foot beam is quite substantial for a 35-foot boat of this vintage, allowing for a voluminous main salon that features a traditional layout with a central table and flanking settees. The use of heavy wood joinery was a hallmark of the Astilleros Ciclón yard, giving the interior a darker, more classic nautical feel compared to the lighter veneers found in modern production boats.

The vessel typically features a two-cabin layout with a dedicated V-berth forward and a large aft cabin, though some variations in the galley and nav station arrangements exist among the few units produced. Headroom is reported to be excellent throughout the main cabin, accommodating sailors up to 6'2" with ease. A notable sibling variation is the Ciclon 110 (without the "S" suffix), which was often configured as a ketch. While the ketch version offers more options for sail plan balancing in heavy weather, the "S" (Sloop) version is widely considered the better performer for upwind work and simplicity of handling.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As with many Spanish-built vessels of the 1980s, prospective buyers should focus on the following technical areas:

  • Osmosis Risk: The fiberglass layup of this era sometimes suffered from early osmotic blistering. A thorough hull inspection or moisture meter test is essential, especially for boats that have remained in Mediterranean waters year-round.
  • Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder on the 110 S is a high-load component. Inspect for play in the rudder stock or stiffness in the steering cables, as these are common wear points for a boat of this age and displacement.
  • Rigging and Chainplates: Since many of these boats were used for offshore cruising, the original masthead rigging should be scrutinized. Pay close attention to the chainplates and their deck seals, as water ingress can lead to core saturation in the surrounding deck areas.
  • Original Engines: Most units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta or Perkins engines. Buyers should verify the service history of the heat exchangers and sail drives (if equipped) or shaft seals, as parts for older marine diesels are becoming increasingly difficult to source.

Community & Resources

Due to the limited production run, there is no large-scale international owner’s association. However, the Ciclon 110 S remains a recognized classic within the Spanish nautical community. Technical discussions and owner insights can occasionally be found through the Real Liga Naval Española or via technical threads on Spanish-language sailing boards like La Taberna del Puerto, where the model is respected for its suitability for the Patrón de Embarcaciones de Recreo (PER) licensing requirements.

The Verdict

The Ciclon 110 S is a specialist’s cruiser, offering a level of build solidity and sea-kindliness rarely found in modern light-displacement hulls.

Pros:

  • Excellent motion comfort and stability in heavy weather.
  • Spacious, traditional interior with high-quality woodwork.
  • Designed by the reputable Michael Pocock, ensuring balanced sailing manners.

Cons:

  • Heavier displacement leads to sluggish performance in very light winds.
  • Extremely limited availability on the used market.
  • Requires careful inspection for era-specific fiberglass issues like osmosis.

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