Sailing Performance & Handling
Under sail, the Friendship 35 is widely regarded for its stiffness and predictable tracking, traits largely attributed to the design philosophy of Koos de Ridder Design, who prioritized seaworthiness for the often-choppy conditions of the North Sea and the IJsselmeer. The boat was typically offered in two primary configurations: the standard version with a fin keel and the "Sport" version, which featured a deeper keel and a taller, more aggressive rig. There was also a "Free" variant equipped with a wing keel, allowing for a shallower draft (approximately 1.15m to 1.35m) without a catastrophic loss of upwind performance.
Owners and historical reviews in Dutch publications like Zeilen suggest that the 35 excels in mid-to-high wind ranges. Because of its relatively high displacement and moderate ballast ratio, it does not "slam" into head seas as lighter contemporary designs might. The steering is typically responsive, though versions equipped with a wheel rather than a tiller can lose some of the subtle tactile feedback in light airs. The masthead sloop rig is robust, and the wide side decks provide a secure platform for crew moving forward to handle headsails.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Friendship 35 reflects the high standard of Dutch craftsmanship common in the 1980s, featuring extensive use of solid teak and high-quality veneers. The layout is traditional but maximized for a vessel of its waterline length. It typically features a V-berth forward, a spacious saloon with twin settees and a central folding table, and a dedicated navigation station to starboard. The L-shaped galley is positioned to port, offering security for the cook while underway.
One of the 35's most lauded features is its aft cabin, which provided significantly more headroom and floor space than the 33, making it a viable option for long-term cruising couples. Headroom in the main saloon is generous, often exceeding 1.90 meters, which was a competitive selling point against other 35-footers of the time. While most units followed a standard layout, some late-model variations saw updates to the upholstery and cabinetry finishes as the yard attempted to modernize the aesthetic in the early 1990s.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a Friendship 35 on the secondary market, prospective buyers should focus on several age-related technical areas common to GRP boats of this vintage.
- Saildrive Diaphragm: Most Friendship 35s were powered by Volvo Penta engines (often the 2003 series) paired with a saildrive. The rubber hull seal (diaphragm) should be replaced every seven years per manufacturer recommendations; if the service history is unclear, this is a priority.
- Deck Core Integrity: Like many production boats of the 1980s, the 35 uses a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around the mast step and stanchion bases, which can indicate water ingress and delamination.
- Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder can develop play over decades of use. While not a structural failure, significant "clunking" in the helm often requires the replacement of the bushings or bearings.
- Keel-to-Hull Joint: In the wing-keel "Free" versions, the leverage exerted by the wider footprint of the keel can lead to hairline cracking in the gelcoat at the joint if the boat has suffered a grounding.
Community & Resources
The Friendship 35 benefits from a dedicated European following, largely centered around the IFC (International Friendship Club), an owner’s association based in the Netherlands. This organization serves as the primary repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and communal knowledge regarding repairs and modifications. Because the builder, Friendship Jachtbouw, went through various ownership changes and relocations to Balk and later Lemmer, the IFC is often the only reliable source for historical build specifications.
The Verdict
The Friendship 35 is a robust, "honest" cruiser that offers a higher level of build quality than many mass-produced alternatives from the same era. It is an ideal choice for sailors who prioritize structural integrity and traditional aesthetics over modern open-transom designs.
Pros:
- Exceptional Dutch build quality with high-grade teak joinery.
- Versatile draft options, including a wing keel for shallow-water cruising.
- Predictable and seaworthy handling in heavy weather.
- Strong owner support via the International Friendship Club.
Cons:
- Standard Volvo Penta engines of that era can be expensive to source parts for.
- Balsa-cored decks require diligent maintenance to prevent moisture issues.
- The design is relatively heavy by modern standards, leading to slower performance in very light winds.
