Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Jura 35 MS are defined by its high displacement and a long keel with a protected rudder. While it is not a light-air performer—often requiring the engine to make meaningful progress in winds under 12 knots—it excels when the weather deteriorates. The hull is exceptionally "stiff," a result of a high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which ensures a comfortable, upright motion that minimizes crew fatigue during long passages.
Under sail, the ketch rig (the most common configuration for this model) allows for a versatile range of sail combinations. In heavy weather, the Jura 35 tracks with remarkable precision, a trait inherited from its G.L. Watson pedigree. Owners often report that the boat feels most at home "heaving-to" or power-sailing with the mizzen and a furling genoa to provide stabilization. The hydraulic steering, while lacking the tactile feedback of a racing yacht, is reliable and well-suited for the internal wheelhouse position, allowing the helmsman to navigate in a climate-controlled environment while maintaining visibility through toughened glass windscreens.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The Jura 35 MS was designed with a focus on interior volume and long-term habitation. The most distinctive feature is the raised pilothouse or wheelhouse, which serves as the social and navigational hub of the vessel. This area typically includes a comprehensive helm station to starboard and a dinette or seating area that provides panoramic views of the surroundings—a luxury rarely found on standard sailing monohulls of this era.
Below deck, the layout varies depending on whether the boat was commissioned as an "Aft Cabin" or "Open Cockpit" version. The Aft Cabin variant provides a private master stateroom accessible from the main saloon, while the Open Cockpit version prioritizes a larger aft deck for fishing or lounging. The use of heavy teak or mahogany joinery is a hallmark of Jura Marine’s construction, creating a warm, traditional maritime aesthetic. The galley is usually located midships, designed to be functional even at sea, with deep sinks and ample storage. Headroom is generous throughout most of the vessel, often exceeding 6'3", which contributes to the open, airy feel of the living spaces.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Jura 35 MS should focus on the specific maintenance requirements of a vintage GRP motorsailer.
- Osmosis and Hull Blistering: As with many British-built hulls from the 1970s, the Jura 35 can be prone to osmotic blistering. A thorough moisture meter test of the hull below the waterline is essential during survey.
- Fuel and Water Tank Integrity: These vessels were often fitted with mild steel or galvanized tanks. Over decades, these are prone to internal corrosion. Inspect for "weeping" at the seams or signs of fuel contamination.
- Window Seals: The large windows in the pilothouse are critical to the boat's appeal but can develop leaks as the original bedding compounds dry out. Check for water staining on the interior woodwork surrounding the glass.
- Engine Service History: Because these are motorsailers, the engine (typically a Perkins or Leyland-Thornycroft) likely has high hours. Check the heat exchanger and exhaust elbow for scale buildup or corrosion.
- Teak Deck Wear: If the model is equipped with original laid teak decks, check for thinning wood and failing caulking, as leaks can lead to core saturation in the sub-deck.
Community & Resources
While Jura Marine is no longer in active production, owners of these vessels often find technical support and historical documentation through the broader G.L. Watson design community. The G.L. Watson & Co. Archive remains the primary source for original plans and design specifications. Owners also frequently congregate in regional North Sea and Scottish cruising forums to share specific refit advice for the "Jura" and "Watson" ranges of motorsailers.
The Verdict
The Jura 35 MS is a "little ship" in every sense of the word, offering security and comfort that modern light-displacement yachts cannot match. It is a niche vessel designed for the sailor who values protection from the elements over outright speed.
Pros:
- Exceptional seaworthiness and stability in heavy weather.
- The pilothouse layout offers year-round cruising capability.
- High-quality traditional craftsmanship and interior joinery.
- Substantial storage and tankage for long-distance voyaging.
Cons:
- Sluggish performance in light winds and poor pointing ability upwind.
- Large turning circle and windage make docking challenging without a bow thruster.
- High maintenance requirements for older hull systems and exterior woodwork.
