Najad 355 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The transition to Judel/Vrolijk design fundamentally changed the sailing DNA of the brand. While older Najads were known for their "steady as she goes" motion, the Najad 355 is a far more spirited performer. According to editorial reviews by Yachting Monthly, the boat exhibits impressive speed and pointing ability, largely due to its modern underwater profile and efficient T-shaped keel.

The 355 was typically equipped with a 9/10 fractional Seldén rig and was often specified with a self-tacking jib. This configuration, paired with all lines led aft to the cockpit, makes the vessel exceptionally easy to sail single-handed or shorthanded. In a breeze, the epoxy-infused hull feels rigid and responsive, lacking the "creaks" sometimes found in older polyester builds. The boat's displacement-to-length ratio is lower than the traditional Najad 34 or 361, allowing it to accelerate more quickly in light winds while maintaining enough ballast to feel secure in a seaway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 355 was a collaboration with Dick Young Designs, moving the brand toward a brighter, more minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic while retaining the warmth of African mahogany. The layout is a classic two-cabin arrangement that prioritizes a spacious feel over cabin count. The "L" shaped galley to port is well-appointed for offshore use, providing secure bracing for the cook.

A notable feature of the 355 is the generous headroom and the use of flush-mounted hatches, which flood the cabin with natural light—a significant improvement over the more enclosed feel of the older center-cockpit models. The forward cabin features a large V-berth, while the aft cabin offers a surprisingly wide double berth for a 35-footer. The head compartment is located aft to starboard and includes a dedicated wet locker area, a practical touch for serious cruisers. While the 355 was the primary aft-cockpit entry in this size range, it shares design elements with its larger siblings, such as the Najad 380, which offered a center-cockpit alternative for those seeking more deck protection.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Najad 355 gained international recognition shortly after its release, being nominated for the prestigious European Yacht of the Year award. It has since become a staple in the high-end brokerage market for sailors downsizing from larger yachts who do not want to sacrifice build quality. The model is frequently cited in cruising literature as a benchmark for the "performance cruiser" category, bridging the gap between pure racing hulls and heavy-displacement cruisers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Najad 355 is widely considered one of the best-built boats in its class, prospective buyers should focus on several specific areas during inspection:

• Saildrive Diaphragm: The Volvo Penta engines in these models utilize a saildrive. The rubber diaphragm has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval (typically 7 years). Check the service logs to ensure this has been addressed.
• Teak Deck Maintenance: Najad used a vacuum-glued teak method for the 355, which avoids the thousands of screw holes found in older boats. However, the condition of the caulking and the thickness of the teak should still be verified, as heavy-handed cleaning can wear down the soft grain over time.
• Electronic Integration: Many 355s were fitted with Raymarine systems of the era. If the plotters and instruments are original, they may be reaching the end of their operational life and require upgrading to modern NMEA 2000 standards.
• Rigging Tension: Because the 355 uses a more high-performance rig than older models, the standing rigging is under higher loads. A professional rig survey is essential to check for fatigue at the swage terminals and spreader roots.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 355 are supported by a dedicated community of Swedish yacht enthusiasts. The Najad Owners Association provides a wealth of technical documentation and a forum for sharing maintenance tips specifically for the Orust-built fleet. Additionally, because the 355 shares many components with Arcona Yachts (due to the shared ownership history of the yards), technical support for the epoxy hulls remains readily available through Swedish service centers.

The Verdict

The Najad 355 is a premium cruising yacht that successfully combines traditional craftsmanship with modern performance. It is an ideal choice for the discerning couple who prioritizes build integrity and ease of handling over maximum berth capacity.

Pros:

• High-Tech Hull: Vacuum-infused epoxy construction offers superior strength and durability.
• Performance: Judel/Vrolijk design ensures the boat is rewarding to sail in various conditions.
• Ease of Handling: Self-tacking jib and cockpit layout make it perfect for shorthanded crews.
• Resale Value: Najad yachts traditionally hold their value exceptionally well compared to mass-production brands.

Cons:

• Initial Cost: Even on the used market, the 355 commands a significant premium over similar-sized competitors.
• Aft Cockpit: Some traditional Najad fans may miss the extreme protection of the classic center-cockpit design.
• Limited Living Space: With only two cabins, it is less suited for large families or groups compared to beamier Mediterranean cruisers.