Express 35 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Express 35 are defined by its high-performance pedigree, featuring a hull form that favors speed and responsiveness. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio typically in the mid-190s and a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio hovering around 18.5, the boat is categorized as a moderate-light displacement cruiser with plenty of "get-up-and-go" in light air. According to historical technical summaries from Steve Killing Yacht Design, the vessel was engineered to be stiff and weatherly, a trait supported by a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 40%.

On the water, the Express 35 is known for its balance. The deep-fin keel version (drawing nearly 7 feet) provides exceptional lift and tracking when beating to windward, while the shoal-draft alternative (roughly 5' 5") caters to those in thinner waters without sacrificing too much stability. Owners often report that the boat feels like a "big dinghy" in its responsiveness to the helm, yet it maintains a predictable motion in a seaway. The fractional rig option, seen on some hulls, allows for easier headsail handling and more precise mast-bend control, making it a favorite for short-handed sailors who still want a boat that rewards active trimming.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many of its contemporaries that sacrificed headroom for a sleek profile, the Express 35 offers a surprisingly voluminous interior. The layout is a classic arrangement of the era but executed with a level of joinery that reflected Goman’s commitment to quality. The salon features a U-shaped dinette to port and a straight settee to starboard, with a high-quality teak finish that avoids the "dark cave" feel often associated with older fiberglass boats.

The vessel was primarily offered in a two-cabin configuration. The forward V-berth is generously sized for a 35-footer, while the aft section typically houses a large quarter berth or an enclosed aft cabin, depending on the specific production year and custom order. The galley is positioned at the base of the companionway for optimal ventilation and features deep sinks and a standard icebox or refrigeration unit. One of the notable variations is the "Tall Rig" version, which, while affecting performance, often coincided with interior upgrades intended for more serious offshore cruising. Compared to its sibling, the Express 30, the 35 provides significantly more elbow room in the head and a dedicated navigation station that allows for full-sized chart plotting.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an Express 35 with the standard diligence required for Canadian-built boats of the 1980s.

• Deck Core Saturation: Like many production boats of this era, the Express 35 utilized a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, handrails, and the windlass area is a common finding. A professional moisture meter reading is essential to ensure the core remains dry and structural.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The "Smile." Given its performance orientation, some hulls may have been raced hard. Inspect the forward leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint for signs of stress or separation, which may indicate a history of groundings or the need for re-torquing keel bolts.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder on the Express 35 is known for being balanced and light, but over time, the bearings can wear, leading to "slop" or vibration in the wheel. Testing for lateral play while the boat is hauled out is highly recommended.
• Original Plumbing and Wiring: Many Express 35s still carry their original gate valves and electrical panels. Upgrading to modern seacocks and tinned copper wiring is a standard recommendation for those looking to take the boat beyond local day-sailing.

Community & Resources

While Goman Boat Ltd. is no longer in operation, the legacy of the design is preserved through the Steve Killing Yacht Design archives, which remain a primary resource for technical inquiries and original design intent. Owners often find a sense of community through regional Canadian yacht clubs on the Great Lakes, where "Express" models still participate in club racing and organized cruises.

The Verdict

The Express 35 is a rare find on the used market that successfully bridges the gap between a nimble racer and a sturdy cruiser. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who values the design language of the 1980s—specifically the influence of C&C—but desires a boat with the modern volume and performance-oriented hull of a Steve Killing design.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and windward ability.
• High-quality interior joinery compared to mass-market contemporaries.
• Pedigree design from a renowned America’s Cup naval architect.
• Balanced handling that is rewarding for experienced sailors.

Cons:

• Limited production numbers make finding one on the market difficult.
• The deep draft on standard models may limit access to some shallow cruising grounds.
• Susceptibility to deck core issues if hardware has not been re-bedded.