MP 35/351 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The MP 35 is defined by what European sailors frequently refer to as a "needle" hull. With a remarkably slender beam of just 8.86 feet (2.70 meters) relative to its 34.78-foot length, the boat exhibits a length-to-beam ratio that is significantly slimmer than 95% of contemporary designs. This geometry allows the vessel to slice through chop with minimal resistance, though it necessitates a high ballast ratio to maintain stability. The boat carries a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 54%, a figure that indicates extreme stiffness and a high resistance to heeling despite the narrow footprint.

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig, the MP 35 is designed for active handling. The sail area-to-displacement ratio of approximately 20.1 suggests a vessel that transitions into a performance bracket, especially in light airs. According to technical assessments found on Sailboat-Cruising (which discusses the lineage of Matti Pulli’s designs), the MP series was engineered for "needle-like" efficiency. At the helm, sailors can expect a highly responsive feel from the spade rudder and fin keel, providing the maneuverability of a racer with the tracking stability required for coastal passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the MP 35/351 reflects the high standards of Finnish woodworking typical of the era. The 351 variant, appearing in the early 1990s, often featured more refined factory-made cabinetry and updated upholstery. Despite the narrow beam, the layout is efficiently managed to accommodate up to five berths. A traditional arrangement typically includes a V-berth forward, a central salon with twin settees, and an aft quarter-berth.

Headroom is respectable for a performance-oriented hull, though the "needle" design naturally limits the lateral volume found in more modern "fat-stern" cruisers like those from Beneteau or Catalina. The 351 model is reported by some Finnish registries to have a slightly deeper draft (1.85m) and higher displacement (approximately 4,300 kg) compared to the original MP 35, which aimed for a lighter, more agile 3,300 kg displacement. These variations mean the 351 is often viewed as a more robust coastal cruiser, whereas the original 35 leans toward club racing performance.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an MP 35 with the understanding that these are low-production, specialized hulls. Primary areas for inspection include:

• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the high ballast ratio and the leverage exerted by the fin keel on a narrow hull, the keel bolts and surrounding laminate should be checked for "smile" cracks or signs of stress.
• Fractional Rig Tension: The performance nature of the rig means it has likely been sailed hard. Inspect the chainplates and standing rigging for fatigue, particularly if the boat has been used for regional racing.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Like many GRP boats of this vintage, the core material around high-load winches and cleats should be moisture-tested to ensure no delamination has occurred.
• Engine Maintenance: Many units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta 2002 series engines. While reliable, these units are now decades old and require verification of the heat exchanger and raw-water cooling systems.

Community & Resources

The most significant repository of technical knowledge for these vessels is the MP Boats Owners Association, based in Finland. This group maintains records on Matti Pulli’s various designs and provides a network for sourcing parts that may be specific to the Veleiro Oy builds. Technical specifications for the lineage can also be cross-referenced through archives of Finnish maritime architecture.

The Verdict

The MP 35/351 is a "sailor’s sailboat," prioritizing efficiency and windward ability over the voluminous "caravan" interiors of modern production boats. It is an ideal choice for the purist who values the aesthetics of a slim hull and the thrill of a stiff, high-ballast performer.

Pros:

• Exceptional windward performance and light-air agility.
• High-quality Finnish interior craftsmanship with beautiful wood finishes.
• Extremely stiff and stable due to a high ballast-to-displacement ratio.
• Striking "needle" aesthetic that stands out in any marina.

Cons:

• Narrow interior volume compared to modern 35-footers.
• Rarity makes finding specific replacement parts or model-specific advice difficult.
• Fractional rig requires a gennaker or spinnaker for competitive downwind speed.