Finnclipper 34 Information, Review, Specs

While Fiskars eventually moved toward aluminum powerboats and eventually exited the marine industry entirely, as detailed in the Fiskars Group heritage records, the Finnclipper 34 remains a testament to their early mastery of fiberglass construction. The boat is closely related to its sibling, the Finnclipper 35, which utilized the same hull mold but often featured different interior arrangements or slightly modified deck moldings. These vessels were marketed alongside the more sailing-focused Finnsailer series, providing a spectrum of options for Northern European mariners who required a "proper" ship to handle the short, steep seas of their home waters.

Sailing Performance & Handling

To understand the Finnclipper 34’s behavior at sea, one must first acknowledge its substantial displacement and full-keel profile. This is not a boat that will "ghost" in light airs; rather, it requires a stiff breeze to come alive. With a high Displacement-to-Length ratio, the hull provides a motion that is remarkably sea-kindly, resisting the jerky accelerations found in lighter boats. It tracks with impressive tenacity, a trait praised by owners in various historical Scandinavian yachting journals, making it an excellent platform for long-distance cruising under autopilot or windvane.

Under sail, the Finnclipper 34 is typically rigged as a sloop or occasionally a ketch, though the latter is more common on the larger siblings. It does not point particularly high to windward due to the drag of its long keel and the substantial windage of the wheelhouse. However, when the wind moves to a reach, the boat stabilizes and generates respectable momentum. The primary design intent was to allow the operator to motor-sail effectively; by using the engine at low RPMs in conjunction with the mainsail, the boat achieves a level of stability and fuel efficiency that pure motorboats or pure sailboats cannot match in heavy weather.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Finnclipper 34 is characterized by the warmth of traditional Scandinavian joinery, typically finished in high-quality teak or mahogany. Because the vessel was designed for the cold North Sea and Baltic climates, the interior is optimized for "living in" rather than "living on." The wheelhouse is the heart of the boat, providing a sheltered steering station that allows the crew to navigate in inclement weather without exposure to the elements—a feature that significantly extends the cruising season.

Accommodation usually consists of a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette in the main saloon, and a functional galley. One of the notable variations within the model line involves the cockpit and stern configuration; while most Finnclipper 34s feature a protected central cockpit, some custom layouts or later 35-foot variants experimented with aft-cabin arrangements to increase privacy for family cruising. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding six feet in the main cabin, which was a significant selling point during its production run compared to contemporary British or American designs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Finnclipper 34 today requires a focus on the longevity of 1970s GRP and mechanical systems.

• Osmotic Blistering: Like many hulls from this era, the Finnclipper 34 can be prone to osmosis. While the hulls were laid up heavily and are structurally very thick, a moisture meter test of the hull below the waterline is essential.
• Engine Maintenance: Many of these boats were originally fitted with Perkins 4.236 or Volvo Penta engines. While these are "bulletproof" units, buyers should inspect the cooling systems and exhaust elbows for scale buildup and corrosion, as parts for older Volvo models can be increasingly expensive.
• Wheelhouse Seals: The large windows of the wheelhouse are a defining feature but also a primary source of leaks. Inspect the rubber seals and the surrounding woodwork for signs of water ingress, which can lead to rot in the bulkheads if left unchecked.
• Rudder and Stern Gland: Given the full-keel design, the rudder hardware is robust, but the bearings can wear over decades. Check for excessive "play" in the steering system and ensure the stern gland is not leaking excessively, as access can be cramped in some engine room configurations.

Community & Resources

The Finnclipper 34 benefits from a dedicated following, particularly in Finland, Sweden, and Germany. While there is no longer a centralized manufacturer support system, technical knowledge is preserved through regional groups. The most prominent resource for technical data and historical documentation is the Finnclipper and Finnsailer Owner Community, often found through Nordic sailing forums. These groups are invaluable for sourcing replacement parts for the unique hardware used by Fiskars during the 1970s.

The Verdict

The Finnclipper 34 is a "go-anywhere" vessel for the sailor who values comfort and safety over raw speed. It is a nostalgic reminder of the era when Fiskars applied its legendary engineering standards to the sea, resulting in a boat that feels significantly larger and more secure than its 34-foot length would suggest.

Pros:

• Exceptional sea-keeping and stability in heavy weather.
• Protected wheelhouse allows for comfortable cruising in rain or cold.
• High-quality Scandinavian interior craftsmanship.
• Robust GRP construction that stands the test of time.

Cons:

• Pedestrian sailing performance in light winds.
• Poor windward pointing ability.
• High windage can make docking in crosswinds challenging.
• Potential for high maintenance costs on aging original engines.