Nauticat 351 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Unlike the earlier long-keeled motorsailers from the Nauticat stable, the 351 utilizes a modern underwater profile featuring a moderate fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder. This configuration grants the boat a tighter turning circle and significantly better upwind performance than the iconic Nauticat 33. On the water, the 351 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable motion in a seaway; with a displacement of approximately 7,500 kg (16,500 lbs), it possesses enough mass to punch through chop without the jarring motion found in lighter contemporary cruisers.

The sail plan is typically configured as a sloop, though many were delivered with in-mast furling to simplify shorthanded handling from the safety of the cockpit or the internal helm. While the boat is not a "light-air flyer"—a reality dictated by its substantial wetted surface area and pilothouse windage—it comes into its own in Breezes above 12 knots. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well, thanks to the lateral stability provided by its hull shape. According to technical documentation from the Nauticat Association, the transition from the 35 to the 351 also involved subtle refinements to the ballast ratio to improve righting moments, ensuring the vessel maintains its Category A (Ocean) rating for offshore passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nauticat 351 is a masterclass in Finnish joinery, utilizing solid teak and high-quality veneers that create a warm, ship-like atmosphere. The defining feature is the raised pilothouse and deck saloon, which offers 360-degree visibility. This allows the navigator to steer from the internal helm station during inclement weather, a luxury that extends the cruising season into the shoulder months. The layout typically includes a large U-shaped settee to port, positioned so that guests can enjoy the view while seated.

Accommodation is split between a V-berth forward and a voluminous owner’s cabin aft. The 351 improved upon the original 35's layout by refining the companionway access and increasing the storage capacity for long-term liveaboards. The galley is located "down," yet it remains connected to the social flow of the pilothouse, benefiting from the natural light pouring through the large toughened-glass windows. Because the 351 was built on the same core hull as the original 35, sibling variations are rare in terms of footprint, though later hulls often featured updated electronics consoles and more contemporary upholstery materials compared to the early 1980s aesthetic of the predecessor.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Nauticat 351 should focus their inspections on several high-signal areas common to the marque and this specific design:

• Teak Deck Longevity: Nauticat traditionally utilized thick teak planking bedded in sealant and screwed to the deck. On older 351 models, these screws can become points of water ingress into the core if the bungs have worn down or the caulking has failed. A moisture meter test of the sub-deck is essential.
• Pilothouse Window Seals: The large windows provide excellent views but are subject to significant thermal expansion. Checking for evidence of "weeping" around the frames or water staining on the internal teak joinery is a priority, as re-bedding these units is a labor-intensive process.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: Due to the skeg-hung design, the lower bearing can experience wear over decades of use. Buyers should check for excessive "play" in the helm and inspect the skeg-to-hull joint for any signs of stress cracking.
• Engine Access and Maintenance: Most 351s are powered by Yanmar or Perkins diesel engines. While the engine room is generally well-insulated, the internal helm linkages (cables or hydraulics) should be inspected for corrosion or stiffness, as the dual-station setup adds complexity to the steering system.

Community & Resources

The Nauticat 351 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the maritime world. The Nauticat Association provides an extensive technical library, including original wiring diagrams and plumbing schematics that are invaluable for refit projects. Additionally, the brand's transition to Nauticat Yachts SIA has allowed for continued, albeit limited, factory support for parts and historical data.

The Verdict

The Nauticat 351 is an uncompromising offshore cruiser that excels in temperate and high-latitude environments where protection from the elements is paramount. It manages to balance the "go-anywhere" ruggedness of a motorsailer with the dignified lines and sailing capabilities of a modern cruising yacht.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Superior Finnish craftsmanship and heavy-duty GRP layups.
• True All-Weather Capability: Dual helm stations allow for comfortable passage-making in rain, cold, or heat.
• 360-Degree Visibility: The pilothouse design is safer for watch-keeping and more pleasant for guests.
• High Resale Value: Nauticats are known for holding their value better than mass-produced Mediterranean cruisers.

Cons:

• Windage: The high pilothouse profile can make docking in strong crosswinds challenging without a bow thruster.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and moderate sail area mean the engine will likely be engaged in light winds.
• Maintenance Intensity: Extensive exterior teak and complex dual-station systems require more upkeep than a simpler "plastic" boat.