Southerly 35 RS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Southerly 35 RS are defined by its variable draft, which ranges from a mere 0.72 meters (2’ 4”) with the keel fully retracted to a deep 2.18 meters (7’ 2”) when fully extended. This deep-draft configuration gives the 35 RS a significant advantage over many fixed-keel cruisers of similar length, which typically draw between 1.5 and 1.8 meters. According to technical assessments by Yachting Monthly, the boat exhibits a light and responsive helm, largely due to its twin-rudder configuration. These rudders are designed to remain effective even when the boat is heavily heeled, as the leeward blade stays vertical and deep in the water.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "moderate-heavy" category, the 35 RS is not a light-air flyer, but it carries its momentum well in a seaway. The swing keel is operated by a 12-volt hydraulic system, allowing the helmsman to adjust the profile of the boat for different points of sail—fully down for upwind work to minimize leeway, and partially or fully raised for downwind surfing or navigating estuaries. In owner anecdotes documented by the Southerly Owners Association, the boat is frequently praised for its sea-kindliness in "Force 6-plus" conditions, where the heavy grounding plate provides a low center of gravity that dampens motion.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "Raised Saloon" architecture is the defining feature of the 35 RS's interior, designed to provide 270-degree visibility from the seating area. This layout is particularly advantageous for long-distance cruisers who wish to keep a lookout from the warmth of the cabin while at anchor or under motor. The interior joinery is typically finished in light American cherry or teak, maintaining the high-level craftsmanship Northshore was known for before its transition to Discovery Yachts.

The standard layout features a large master aft cabin with a transverse double berth, which is remarkably spacious for a 35-foot boat because the engine is tucked forward under the companionway. The forward cabin serves as a guest V-berth. A key variation found in the 35 RS is the galley configuration; most hulls feature a linear galley to port, which allows for a larger seating area to starboard, though some bespoke versions adjusted the nav station's size. Because the keel box is integrated into the interior furniture, it is cleverly disguised as a bulkhead or table support, ensuring it does not obstruct movement through the cabin—a common complaint in smaller swing-keel designs.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Southerly 35 RS gained significant industry attention upon its release, earning a nomination for the European Yacht of the Year in the "Family Cruiser" category. It was widely featured in the European marine press as the "modern face" of Northshore Yachts, moving away from the more traditional, heavy aesthetics of the older 115 and 105 models. While it does not have a single "famous" solo-circumnavigator owner, the model is a staple in high-end cruising vlogs and articles focusing on "ditch crawling" in the Bahamas or the French canals, where its unique combination of blue-water capability and ultra-shallow draft is unmatched.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their survey on the specific mechanical systems that make a Southerly unique.

1. The Keel Pendant and Hydraulics: The stainless steel wire (pendant) that raises and lowers the keel is a service item. If the history of its replacement is unknown, it should be changed immediately. Listen for any straining in the hydraulic pump during operation.
2. Grounding Plate Integrity: Inspect the sealant and the massive bolts connecting the cast-iron grounding plate to the GRP hull. While these are over-engineered, any sign of weeping or "rust bleeding" suggests the plate may need to be dropped and re-bedded.
3. Rudder Bearings: Because the twin rudders are relatively exposed and used as "legs" when the boat is dried out on a beach, the bearings can experience lateral stress. Check for excessive play in the steering linkage.
4. Raised Saloon Windows: The large deck-saloon windows are stylish but are a potential source of leaks if the sealant has perished due to UV exposure. Check for water staining on the interior woodwork beneath the frames.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Southerly Owners Association, which maintains an extensive archive of manuals, technical drawings, and a member-run forum. This group is instrumental for owners looking to source specific parts for the Northshore-built hydraulic systems. Additionally, the brand legacy is supported by the Discovery Shipyard, which took over the Southerly molds and can occasionally provide historical build data.

The Verdict

The Southerly 35 RS is a rare breed of yacht that refuses to compromise between the conflicting goals of deep-water performance and shallow-water exploration. It is a premium-category cruiser built to a standard rarely seen in contemporary mass-production boats.

Pros:

• Unrivaled versatility; can explore shallow rivers or cross oceans.
• Exceptional interior light and visibility via the raised saloon.
• High resale value due to the niche market and quality of build.
• Excellent heavy-weather stability with the keel fully deployed.

Cons:

• Increased maintenance requirements for the hydraulic keel system.
• Higher initial purchase price compared to fixed-keel competitors like Westerly or Beneteau.
• Twin rudders can be less effective than a single deep rudder during low-speed backing in tight marinas.