Design and Construction
The Maxus 35 shows an intriguingly modern hull line defined by a pronounced upturned aft section and an elevated bow, with a heightened freeboard that is especially prominent forward anchor. The elevated cabin superstructure runs forward with a continuous window strip in the manner of a deck saloon, and a deckhouse surrounded by a long black porthole protected by a small cap reinforces the contemporary profile. Northman builds the hulls and decks meticulously by hand using solid fiberglass, and the yard's construction approach extends to an iron ballast and a solid fiberglass hull and deck. At 35.04 feet overall with an 11.15-foot beam and a displacement of 13,669 pounds, the boat carries a 45.93-foot mast and 629.69 square feet of sail area on a fractional sloop rig, yielding a sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 17.62 and a capsize ratio of 1.87.
Rig and Handling
On deck, the Maxus 35 uses a mast with two spreaders and shrouds affixed directly to the hull exterior, and the rigging mechanisms are concealed beneath a double canopy that hides most of the ropes. The cockpit carries two steering wheels and a dual steering system, with the steering wheel and rudder assembly entrusted to Jefa and a very deep rudder blade fitted to the spade rudder. Its stern folds down to form a swimming platform and a delphiniere integrated into the forward deck round out the exterior, while the standard 29-horsepower diesel may be installed on a shaft line or in a saildrive. Keel options span a long L-shape at 1.95-meter immersion and a short L-shape at 1.50 meters, with alternative chine keels available to facilitate dry berthing and land storage anchor.
Accommodations
Below, the Maxus 35 is offered in two- or three-cabin layouts, and the two-cabin version adds a dedicated shower cabin with the toilet separate from the shower — a notable arrangement in a boat of this size. The saloon is spacious with good headroom, a lighted mess, and a minimalist chart table raised to free space for a berth. The interior is bathed in natural light and entirely covered with LED lighting that gives a cosy, modern feel, while a fully functional kitchenette provides an induction hob, refrigerator, sink, and ample storage. From the shower, a hatch gives access to a large hold, and the aft locker is separated from that hold by an opening panel anchor.
The Verdict
The Maxus 35 is a purpose-built ocean-category cruiser that pairs a distinctive modern hull with a flexible interior and a concealed, twin-wheel cockpit. Its multiple keel and cabin configurations make it adaptable to both coastal and offshore plans, though the deep freeboard and novel styling will not suit every traditionalist eye.
Pros
- Category-A ocean-class cruiser with modern, hand-laid solid fiberglass construction
- Two- or three-cabin layouts with a separate shower and toilet in the two-cabin version
- Concealed rigging, twin wheels, and Jefa steering for a clean and controlled cockpit
- Long, short, and chine-keel options for draft flexibility and dry storage
Cons
- Elevated bow and heightened freeboard produce a non-traditional profile
- Twin-keel version remained under study at launch rather than offered
