Creekmore 34 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Creekmore 34 are defined by its high displacement-to-length ratio and its deep, full-keel or cutaway-forefoot configuration. On the water, this translates to a vessel with high directional stability and a very "soft" motion in a seaway. Unlike modern light-displacement cruisers that may "pancake" against waves, the Creekmore 34 tends to slice through chop, making it a preferred choice for coastal passages where comfort is prioritized over absolute speed.

Anecdotal reports from historical racing archives suggest that the 34 was surprisingly weatherly for its time, pointing well thanks to its narrow hull form. However, the heavy displacement means it requires a significant breeze—typically 10 knots or more—to truly wake up. In light air, the large wetted surface area of the full keel creates drag that modern fin-keel boats easily overcome. Owners often note that the boat tracks exceptionally well under sail, often holding a course with minimal input from the helm, a trait highly valued by single-handed sailors.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Because Ray Creekmore frequently sold these boats as "semi-custom" or kit boats, the interior of a Creekmore 34 can range from basic, utilitarian "workboat" finishes to high-end joinery featuring mahogany and teak. The standard factory layout generally followed the traditional plan of the mid-20th century: a forward V-berth, a midships salon with settee berths, and a compact galley located near the companionway for ventilation.

The narrow beam of the design, while beneficial for sailing performance, does limit the interior volume compared to modern 34-footers. Headroom is generally adequate for sailors up to six feet tall, but the cabin can feel intimate. Sibling models, such as the Creekmore 30 and the larger Creekmore 42 and 45, utilized similar design languages. The 42-foot variant, in particular, was often used for serious bluewater voyaging, and much of the interior DNA from those larger ocean-crossers was distilled down into the 34-foot hull. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the quality of the "owner-finished" interiors, as the ergonomics and electrical routing can vary wildly between hulls.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Creekmore 34, the primary focus should be on the age of the materials and the nature of early fiberglass construction.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, Creekmore utilized wood coring (often plywood or balsa) in the decks. Moisture ingress through poorly bedded deck hardware often leads to soft spots and delamination. A thorough "percussion test" with a phenolic hammer is essential.
• Chainplate Anchors: On many Creekmore models, the chainplates were glassed into the hull or bolted to bulkheads that may now be suffering from rot. Because these are critical structural points, they must be inspected for "bleeding" rust or movement.
• Osmotic Blistering: While the hulls are incredibly thick, early resins were prone to osmotic blistering. While rarely structural on a boat this heavily built, a surveyor should check for significant "osmotic pox" below the waterline.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: Many Creekmores were fitted with integral fiberglass tanks or aluminum tanks that may now be reaching the end of their service life. Replacing a leaking tank in these hulls often requires significant cabinetry removal.
• Owner-Finishing Voids: For boats sold as kits, check for "voids" in the secondary bonding where bulkheads meet the hull. If the original builder did not properly prep the hull surface before glassing in the furniture, these bonds can fail over decades of racking stresses.

Community & Resources

While there is no longer an active manufacturer, the Creekmore legacy is maintained by a dedicated group of classic plastic enthusiasts. Information is frequently exchanged through the Creekmore Owners Association (a loose-knit group often found via classic yacht forums) and historical archives maintained by Florida-based maritime historians who document Ray Creekmore's contributions to the Miami boat-building scene.

The Verdict

The Creekmore 34 is a "sailor’s sailboat" that appeals to those who value traditional aesthetics and heavy-duty construction over modern interior volume and "condo-maran" amenities.

Pros:

• Exceptional hull strength due to thick, early-era fiberglass laminates.
• Graceful, classic lines that stand out in a sea of modern production boats.
• Superior tracking and a comfortable motion in heavy weather.

Cons:

• Narrow interior living space compared to modern standards.
• Inconsistent interior build quality due to many being sold as kit boats.
• Heavy displacement results in sluggish performance in light wind conditions.