J/35C

Description

The J/35C (often stylized as J/35c) is an American performance cruiser-racer designed by Rod Johnstone (of the J/Boats family) and built by J/Boats in partnership with Tillotson-Pearson (later TPI Composites) in the United States, using advanced fiberglass construction (balsa-cored sandwich laminates via SCRIMP infusion for lightness, strength, and durability). Introduced around 1989–1990, it was named Sailing World's Boat of the Year in 1990 for its exceptional sailing performance combined with a classic American cruising yacht interior—emphasizing a long waterline for speed, efficient high-lift fin keel (standard rather than winged), balanced spade rudder, responsive 40" wheel steering, compact adjustable traveler, and a hull form with short ends, well-distributed beam, and ultra-clean lines for minimal pitch/roll and effortless handling in waves. It's suited to short-handed or family cruising with good accommodations (sleeps 6, full interior, abundant storage, sea berths), while retaining racer-like traits (large sail plan for light winds, stability, and speed). The J/35C is a variant of the earlier J/34C, featuring an extended stern, added coachroof for interior volume, and a slightly different rig. Production was limited (dozens built in the early 1990s before the line phased out), making surviving examples rare and valued as capable classics with strong resale in areas like the Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes.