Ericson 34-2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Ericson 34-2 is widely regarded as a "sailor’s boat," characterized by its responsiveness and speed in a variety of conditions. With a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 17.28, it sits firmly in the performance-cruising category, capable of maintaining nearly 7 knots on a reach in moderate breezes. Bruce King’s design utilizes a moderate fin keel and a semi-balanced spade rudder, which Practical Sailor notes allows the boat to track exceptionally well, even during the "dinghy-like" surges of downwind sailing.

On the water, the boat is often described as "tender" by those accustomed to heavier, beamier cruisers. This is a deliberate design choice; its sporty, high-aspect masthead rig and moderate displacement-to-length ratio of 238 mean the boat heels early to find its "groove." Sailing Magazine highlights that while the boat is stiff enough for offshore coastal work, owners typically tuck in a reef when gusts exceed 15-18 knots to maintain optimal control and comfort. Its PHRF rating of roughly 125 makes it a formidable competitor in local regattas, where its ability to point high and accelerate quickly in light air gives it a distinct advantage over more traditional cruisers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 34-2 was ahead of its time, utilizing a "tri-cabin" layout that maximizes privacy in a vessel under 35 feet. One of the most distinctive features is the placement of the head and a dedicated double quarter berth aft. This configuration allows for a spacious, L-shaped galley to port and a large navigation station to starboard without sacrificing a proper aft sleeping area. The use of a T-shaped cockpit overhead provides the necessary vertical clearance for the aft cabin and lazarette storage.

Materials are traditional and high-quality, featuring a teak-and-holly sole and extensive teak joinery that Practical Sailor compares favorably to higher-end Maine-built yachts. The main salon is centered around a fold-down table that surrounds the keel-stepped mast, creating an open social area when not in use. Sibling variants are notable: the Pacific Seacraft-built 34-200 versions often feature refined electrical and plumbing systems, while the nearly identical Ericson 35-3 shares the same hull but utilizes a different deck mold and interior arrangement. Prospective buyers should also distinguish this model from the older "34T" (the IOR version) and the "Olson 34," which was a lighter-displacement racing design built by the same factory.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Ericson 34-2 is fundamentally robust, several technical areas require scrutiny during a pre-purchase survey:

• The Tri-axial Force Grid (TAFG): Ericson utilized a sophisticated internal fiberglass grid system to support rig and keel loads. Owners on technical forums have documented instances where the mast step or the grid itself shows signs of compression or cracking, particularly if the boat was raced hard or the rigging was over-tensioned.
• Rudder Moisture: The spade rudder is a foam-cored fiberglass structure over a steel frame. It is notorious for developing voids or internal delamination over time. Indicators include "weeping" of rusty water or a dull "thud" during a percussion test.
• Anchor Locker Leaks: A common design flaw involves the anchor locker seal. Water can bypass the locker lip and migrate into the V-berth, leading to wet cushions and core rot in the surrounding foredeck.
• Deck Core Health: Like most balsa-cored boats of this era, the 34-2 is susceptible to moisture intrusion around deck hardware. Particular attention should be paid to the stanchion bases and the bow pulpit, where neglected re-bedding can lead to significant core deterioration.

Community & Resources

The definitive hub for technical support is EricsonYachts.org, which hosts an extensive archive of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and a deeply knowledgeable community of owners. This association provides a critical resource for maintaining the specific systems of the 34-2, including the Universal M25 series engines common to many hulls.

The Verdict

The Ericson 34-2 remains one of the most successful "sweet spot" designs of the late 20th century, offering a level of sailing performance that few modern cruisers can match without sacrificing an elegant, wood-rich interior.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind pointing ability.
• Clever interior layout with a functional aft cabin and aft head.
• High-quality Bruce King design with a timeless, graceful aesthetic.
• Strong owner support and technical documentation via a dedicated association.

Cons:

• Standard Universal 21-hp engine can feel underpowered in heavy head-seas.
• Tendency to heel early requires active sail trimming and early reefing.
• Risk of expensive repairs if the internal structural grid or rudder shows damage.