The hull is characterized by a traditional full keel, a heavy displacement of approximately 20,000 pounds, and a distinctive clipper bow with a generous bowsprit. Because many of the Dekleer-built units were completed by their owners, the Endurance 35 exhibits a wider range of finishes and system complexities than most production yachts. However, the foundational build quality of the Dekleer hulls is widely regarded as robust, featuring thick laminates designed to withstand the rugged conditions of the British Columbia coast and beyond.
Sailing Performance & Handling
The Endurance 35 is a quintessential "heavy-metal" cruiser, favoring stability and momentum over raw speed. With a high Displacement-to-Length ratio, the boat is remarkably sea-kindly, resisting the jerky motions of smaller, lighter yachts in a seaway. According to editorial analysis from Yachting Monthly, the boat excels in heavy air and offshore conditions where its weight allows it to punch through head seas without losing significant headway.
The cutter rig is the most common configuration found on the Endurance 35, providing a versatile sail plan that is easily managed by a solo sailor or a couple. Under sail, the boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to its long keel, though this same feature makes it less maneuverable in tight marinas compared to modern fin-keel designs. Sailors often report that the boat requires a stiff breeze—typically 12 to 15 knots—to truly come alive, but once moving, it maintains its speed with deceptive ease. It is a "destination boat" rather than a buoy-racer, designed to keep the crew safe and comfortable over thousands of miles.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Endurance 35 is defined by its substantial beam and a layout that prioritizes safety at sea. Most variations feature a large "U-shaped" galley and a dedicated navigation station located near the companionway for easy communication with the helm. Because Dekleer Brothers provided these boats as both finished yachts and kits, the interior aesthetics can range from professional joinery in teak or mahogany to more utilitarian, owner-built plywood finishes.
The "pilot house" or "raised deck saloon" version is particularly popular in the Pacific Northwest, as it provides a sheltered steering station and expansive views of the horizon, a necessity for the rainy climates of British Columbia and Alaska. The standard layout typically includes a large V-berth forward, a head with an integrated shower, and a main saloon with a drop-down table that converts into a double berth. Storage is a hallmark of the Ibold design, with deep lockers and bilge space intended for long-term provisioning. The Endurance 37, a sibling model built on a slightly stretched version of the same lines, offered even more volume, though the 35 remains the most iconic of the series.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Endurance 35 earned its place in sailing lore by winning the 1970 design competition for a 35-foot cruiser, a victory that propelled Peter Ibold to international fame. The model has been featured in numerous cruising memoirs, as it was a frequent choice for those embarking on circumnavigations during the "golden age" of fiberglass boat building. While it does not have a single "celebrity" owner, it is often cited in technical cruising literature as a benchmark for what a traditional long-keel cruiser should be.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Dekleer-built Endurance 35 should focus their inspections on the quality of the individual build, particularly for "owner-finished" kits.
- Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are often glassed into the hull or bolted through heavy knees. In older units, deck leaks at the chainplate entry points can lead to moisture ingress into the bulkheads.
- Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid fiberglass, many decks utilized a balsa or foam core. Use a phenolic hammer to test for delamination, especially around aftermarket deck hardware installations.
- Rudder Bushings: The heavy barn-door rudder is supported by a substantial skeg or the end of the keel. Over decades, the bushings and the pintle-and-gudgeon assembly can develop play, leading to vibration under power.
- Osmotic Blistering: Early fiberglass builds from the 1970s and 80s are prone to osmotic blistering. While rarely structural on a hull this thick, a moisture meter survey is essential.
- Engine Access: Depending on the interior layout chosen by the builder, engine access can be cramped. Check the condition of the motor mounts and the stern gland, which can be difficult to reach in some configurations.
Community & Resources
The most significant repository for technical data and owner support is the Endurance Yacht Owners Association (EYOA). This group maintains records of the various builders globally and provides a platform for owners to share technical drawings and refit advice. For Canadian-specific inquiries, the Council of BC Yacht Clubs often has members with historical knowledge of the Dekleer Brothers yard and the specific nuances of Richmond-built hulls.
The Verdict
The Endurance 35 is a purposeful, rugged cruiser that prioritizes safety and sea-kindliness over modern performance metrics. It is an ideal vessel for a couple planning to cross oceans or explore remote, high-latitude coastlines.
Pros:
- Exceptional Sea-Kindliness: The heavy displacement ensures a comfortable ride in rough conditions.
- Robust Construction: Dekleer hulls are known for their "bulletproof" fiberglass layups.
- Versatile Rig: The cutter sail plan is easily reefed and balanced for offshore work.
- Timeless Aesthetic: The clipper bow and traditional lines remain highly regarded in any harbor.
Cons:
- Maneuverability: Challenging to handle in reverse and tight quarters due to the long keel.
- Light Air Performance: Requires significant wind to reach hull speed.
- Build Variability: Kit-built interiors vary wildly in quality and system complexity.
