Faurby 335 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Faurby 335 is defined by its exceptional stiffness and directional stability. With a ballast ratio approaching 40%, the boat carries its sail area with remarkable poise, rarely requiring an early reef. This high ratio is a hallmark of the yard's design philosophy, allowing the 335 to maintain a narrow, low-drag hull form while still providing the righting moment necessary for offshore performance. On the helm, the 335 is typically fitted with a balanced spade rudder and a tiller, providing the sensitive feedback required for fine-tuning trim.

The hull’s narrow beam—measuring just 3.0 meters—is a deliberate choice that enables superior upwind tacking angles compared to wider, modern hulls. According to technical assessments from Yacht.de, the German authority on European sailing, the Faurby 335 demonstrates a level of craftsmanship and sailing precision that rivals larger, more expensive yachts. The boat tracks with an "on rails" sensation, making it an ideal choice for short-handed crews who value a predictable and forgiving motion. The rig is powerful yet manageable, often featuring a 9/10 fractional setup with a large mainsail and a slightly overlapping genoa or self-tacking jib, the latter being a popular option for ease of handling.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to the Faurby bespoke ethos, the interior of the 335 is handcrafted to a standard that borders on cabinet-making. The layout is traditional, featuring a high-quality V-berth forward, a central saloon with two longitudinal settees, and a functional L-shaped galley to starboard. Because Faurby operates as a semi-custom builder, the level of finish is significantly higher than industry standards, with owners often choosing between mahogany or light oak joinery.

While the hull remains consistent, the internal variations are where the 335 truly shines. The yard offers different configurations for the navigation station and aft cabin. Some owners opt for a larger dedicated chart table, while others prefer to expand the aft sleeping quarters. The sibling models, such as the older Faurby 330, shared the same hull DNA but featured more traditional, slightly heavier interior moldings. The 335 introduced more modern amenities and improved weight distribution, moving heavy components closer to the center of the boat to reduce pitching. Despite the narrow beam, the use of light-colored materials and strategic overhead hatches ensures the cabin feels airy and welcoming rather than cramped.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Faurby 335 should approach the survey with a focus on the boat’s specific high-end construction details and performance equipment:

• Rudder Bearings and Tiller Play: Given the high loads generated by the performance-oriented rig and deep keel, the rudder bearings should be inspected for any play. Ensure the tiller connection is solid and that the balanced spade rudder shows no signs of delamination or moisture ingress.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Faurby yachts are often equipped with premium deck gear. Check the bedding of the tracks and winches, particularly if the boat has been campaigned in club racing, as high-load points can occasionally develop hairline gelcoat stress cracks that may require sealing.
• Sail Drive Seal: Most 335 models are powered by Volvo Penta or Yanmar engines with sail drives. Ensure the rubber diaphragm seal is within its manufacturer-recommended replacement window (usually every 7-10 years).
• Teak Deck Condition: Many Faurbys are specified with vacuum-bonded teak decks. While these are generally more durable than screwed decks, inspect for any thinning of the wood or failing caulk lines, as replacement on a yacht of this quality is a significant financial undertaking.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Faurby 335 are supported by a dedicated, though relatively small, international community. The primary hub for technical exchange is the Faurby Klubben (Faurby Club), based in Denmark, which serves as the official association for owners. This group maintains close ties with the shipyard, often hosting rallies and technical workshops that allow owners to discuss maintenance and upgrades directly with the builders. Information regarding specific hull numbers and historical modifications can often be retrieved by contacting the yard directly in Lunderskov, as they maintain detailed records of every bespoke build.

The Verdict

The Faurby 335 is a connoisseur’s yacht, offering a level of sailing refinement and build quality that mass-produced boats cannot match. It is designed for the sailor who enjoys the journey as much as the destination.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and heavy-weather stiffness.
• Bespoke, world-class interior joinery and finishing.
• Strong resale value due to the brand’s "True Boat Builder" reputation.
• Responsive, tactile handling that rewards a skilled helm.

Cons:

• Narrow beam results in less interior volume than modern 33-foot competitors.
• Higher initial purchase price and maintenance costs for premium materials.
• The tiller-led cockpit, while great for sailing, may feel more exposed in heavy weather than a center-cockpit design.