Elliott 35 SS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Elliott 35 SS are defined by its canting keel and twin rudder configuration. The canting keel allows the vessel to generate massive righting moment without the weight penalty of a deep, heavy fixed bulb, which results in a boat that planes early and stays on the step even in moderate breeze. Handling is described by owners as "skiff-like" in its responsiveness; however, the twin rudders ensure the boat remains tractable and easy to steer when pressed hard reaching or running in heavy seas.

Technical performance data suggests a yacht that thrives on apparent wind sailing. With a high Displacement/Length ratio and a powerful square-top mainsail, the 35 SS is capable of double-digit speeds both upwind and down. In editorial tests by Boating New Zealand, Greg Elliott's designs are frequently noted for their "sea-kindliness" despite their high-speed potential, a trait attributed to the refined entry and carefully calculated buoyancy distribution. The use of a retractable carbon bowsprit allows for the deployment of massive asymmetric spinnakers, transforming the boat into a formidable platform for "down-the-mine" offshore legs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

In keeping with its "Super Sport" moniker, the interior of the Elliott 35 SS is minimalist and functional, prioritizing weight savings over luxury. The layout is optimized for offshore racing, featuring pipe berths for weight-shifting (stacking) and a centralized navigation station that allows the skipper to monitor performance data and weather routing with ease. While the boat does provide basic amenities, including a small galley and a marine head, these are integrated as lightweight modules.

There are notable variations within the 35-foot Elliott family. While the 35 SS features the canting keel, its sibling, the standard Elliott 35, is often configured with a fixed T-bulb keel for owners who prefer simpler maintenance or different racing handicap optimizations. Another variation includes the Elliott 35 Tourer, which utilizes the same high-performance hull but features a significantly more appointed interior and a raised coachroof for cruising comfort. For the SS model, however, the focus remains on the "work-center" cockpit, which is designed for efficient line handling during shorthanded maneuvers.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Elliott 35 SS has a significant cultural footprint in the Southern Hemisphere racing scene, particularly through the exploits of the yacht Crusader. This specific vessel became a benchmark for the class, dominating New Zealand shorthanded racing circuits and demonstrating the design's ability to compete with boats ten feet longer in offshore conditions. The exploits of the Elliott 35 SS are frequently chronicled in regional publications like Sail-World, where it is often cited as the gold standard for 10.5-meter performance.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Elliott 35 SS must approach the purchase with the mindset of a professional race team. The technical complexity of the vessel requires a higher level of scrutiny than a standard production cruiser.

• Canting Keel Hydraulics: The hydraulic ram and seals that power the canting keel are high-wear components. Buyers should inspect for fluid leaks and ensure the system has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
• Hull/Deck Core Integrity: Given the high-load nature of carbon/E-glass racing hulls, professional moisture testing and "tapping" of the hull around chainplates and rudder bearings is essential to check for delamination or core compression.
• Rigging Loads: The high-tension nature of the 35 SS’s fractional rig means that standing rigging and the mast step area undergo significant stress. Careful inspection of the carbon mast for hairline cracks or UV degradation is vital.
• Rudder Bearings: The twin-rudder system requires precise alignment. Any "slop" or play in the helm should be investigated, as it often points to worn self-aligning bearings.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and design history is the Elliott Marine website. While there is no large-scale "owners' club" in the traditional sense, the community is tightly knit within the New Zealand and Australian offshore racing associations. Owners often exchange technical data through the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) and similar high-performance racing hubs where Greg Elliott’s designs are a staple of the fleet.

The Verdict

The Elliott 35 SS is a uncompromising racing tool that offers an entry point into the world of canting-keel technology and elite-level speed. It is not a boat for the casual weekend cruiser, but for the serious competitor, it offers unmatched thrills.

Pros:

• Exceptional speed and planing potential in almost all wind ranges.
• Sophisticated canting keel technology provides incredible stability for its size.
• Designed by a world-class architect with a proven track record in offshore racing.
• Optimized for shorthanded sailing with an ergonomic cockpit layout.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for the hydraulic and electronic systems.
• Spartan interior offers very little comfort for non-racing guests.
• Requires a high level of sailing skill to extract maximum performance safely.
• High-performance construction materials make repairs more complex and costly.