Design and Construction
What distinguishes the Lagoon 35 from later Lagoon cruising cats is the engineering intent. Morrelli and Melvin chose a light-displacement hull anchor built by TPI in the USA using the SCRIMP resin-infusion process with biaxial glass and a balsa core. The under-wing surface between the hulls is fair and free of any protrusions that might snag waves and slow the boat, while under-wing clearance sits at roughly two feet when unloaded. Jeanneau backed the structure with a 10-year blister warranty and a 5-year structural warranty, terms the period review regarded as among the best in boatbuilding. Molded-in transom steps ease boarding or a swim, and a forward trampoline spans the hulls clear of lines and sails.
Rig and Handling
The sail plan is compact rather than towering: a single-spreader rig carries 620 square feet of canvas including the roller-furling jib. All halyards, sheets, and reefing lines lead aft into the cockpit, and four self-tailing Lewmar winches sit aft — three were standard, with owners adding the fourth for extra purchase. That arrangement gives a genuinely shorthanded sailing experience. Owners report the 35 CCC is very simple to sail and operate, and the light hull lets it ghost along at 6–7 knots in light winds, with one owner logging 12 knots held on the screen in stronger conditions. Under the twin Yanmar diesel inboards the boat cruises at 7–8 knots, larger engines being optional.
Accommodations
Below, the Lagoon 35 abandons the performance purism above deck for a sociable split-level "Galley Up" layout. Large saloon windows — a Lagoon signature — flood the main space, where an L-shaped settee wraps a two-piece dining table that converts to an extra berth. The galley itself holds a refrigerator/freezer, a two-burner stove with oven, and a generous sink. Two large queen berths sit aft, and the starboard hull houses a notably large head. Headroom reaches 6 feet 3 inches, and buyers could choose from four different layouts. The emphasis on volume and light makes the interior feel larger than the 35-foot length suggests.
Known Issues
One operational caveat comes from owner experience rather than survey: when the boat is loaded down heavily, seas can strike the nacelle between the hulls and produce loud banging. This is a function of load and sea state, not a structural defect, but it is worth knowing for anyone planning full cruising payloads.
The Verdict
The Lagoon 35 is a rare, purpose-built expression of Lagoon's early performance ethos — a light, infusion-built cat that sails and motors with unusual verve for its size, wrapped around a bright and roomy cruising interior. Eleven boats total means the model is scarce, but for the sailor who finds one, it delivers a shorthanded-capable platform with real speed and a forgiving shallow draft.
Pros
- Light-displacement hull and fair under-wing deliver high single-digit speeds under sail and 7–8 knots under twin diesel power
- All lines lead aft to four self-tailing winches for easy shorthanded handling
- Bright, split-level "Galley Up" interior with two aft queen berths, large saloon windows, and 6'3" headroom
- Strong factory warranty terms and SCRIMP/balsa-core construction
Cons
- Only eleven built, limiting availability
- Nacelle can bang loudly between hulls when heavily loaded in seas
- Smaller 620 sq ft rig prioritizes manageability over ultimate passage-making power
