Ericson 35-3 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Ericson 35-3 are defined by its moderate displacement and a relatively high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 17.5. This allows the boat to remain competitive in light-air conditions where many contemporaries of the 1980s struggle. Bruce King utilized a modern underbody for the time, featuring a fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, which contributes to a nimble feel at the helm and excellent tracking.

According to technical reviews from Practical Sailor, the boat is notably "stiff" due to its 5,200-pound lead keel, allowing it to carry full sail longer than lighter designs. One of the structural hallmarks that influences its handling is the Tri-Axial Force Grid (TAFG). This internal fiberglass grid system, bonded to the hull, distributes loads from the mast, engine, and keel, preventing the hull from flexing under high rig tension. This rigidity translates to better upwind performance and a more responsive feel when navigating choppy seas. While the boat is not a dedicated racing machine, it is a perennial favorite in PHRF fleets, typically rating around 120–130 depending on the specific rig and keel configuration.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 35-3 was considered revolutionary for a 35-foot boat in the early 1980s, primarily due to its innovative aft cabin and head placement. While most boats of this size still utilized a traditional "quarter berth" or a cramped V-berth, the 35-3 offered a genuine aft double cabin tucked under the cockpit, providing privacy for two couples. The main salon is characterized by a "U-shaped" dinette to port and a straight settee to starboard, all finished in the high-quality teak joinery that was a hallmark of the Santa Ana factory.

The galley is located at the base of the companionway, featuring a deep sink, a two-burner stove with an oven, and a large icebox (often converted by owners to refrigeration). One significant variation in the model line involves the keel; while the standard fin draft is approximately 6' 2", a shoal-draft version (roughly 4' 11") was produced for the Florida and Chesapeake markets. The 35-3 shares a strong family resemblance to its siblings: the smaller Ericson 32-3, which utilizes a nearly identical interior layout on a smaller scale, and the larger Ericson 38, which expanded the concept into a true blue-water voyager. A later variant, the Ericson 34, was introduced to bridge the gap between the 32 and 35, often utilizing similar design cues but with a slightly more modern stern.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Ericson 35-3 should focus their surveys on a few specific areas common to the aging fleet. While the TAFG grid is a structural asset, some owners on technical forums have noted instances where the bonding between the grid and the hull can hairline fracture if the boat has suffered a hard grounding.

• The "Ericson Smile": Like many boats with lead keels bolted to a fiberglass stub, the 35-3 can develop a crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it should be inspected to ensure the keel bolts are torqued correctly.
• Chainplate Leaks: The chainplates pass through the deck and are bolted to the TAFG or bulkheads. If the sealant fails, water can track down and rot the interior wood or cause corrosion on the plates themselves.
• Portlight Gaskets: The original aluminum-framed portlights are prone to leaking over decades. Many owners replace these with Newfound Metals or similar stainless-steel units.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder is robust, but the upper and lower bearings can wear, leading to "play" or a vibrating sensation at the helm.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the 35-3 is preserved by a very active and technically proficient owner community. The Ericson Yachts Association serves as the primary repository for the brand’s history, housing original brochures, wiring diagrams, and a comprehensive database of Bruce King’s design notes. This community is instrumental for current owners seeking to maintain the original performance specifications or source replacement parts for the specific TAFG system.

The Verdict

The Ericson 35-3 remains a premier choice for sailors who refuse to compromise between a boat that is "fast enough to be fun" and "comfortable enough to live on." Its construction quality outstrips many of its high-volume production contemporaries, making it a durable value on the used market.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind tracking.
• The TAFG system provides a rigid, high-performance feel.
• Innovative interior layout with a private aft cabin.
• High-quality teak joinery and interior finishing.

Cons:

• Spade rudder and fin keel require more attention in thin water or lobster-pot-heavy areas.
• Standard aluminum portlights are prone to leaking if not re-bedded or replaced.
• Access to the engine (typically a Universal diesel) can be tight for major repairs.