35s5 and the Temple of Doom

[Bobs...@aol.com]

This is my review of the Beneteau 35s5, which is being added to our 35s5 webpage over the next couple of weeks...Comments welcome!

 

 

 

 

 

There are very few boats like the Beneteau 35s5, even from Beneteau themselves. On the surface of the design we find a fast looking hull, a large swim platform and odd squared off ports that continue from the sides of the cabin trunk to the coach roof. These ports are incredibly thick, more so than the ports on the Swan 36 which has a similar port arrangement. The boat is modern looking, perhaps a bit harsh from some angles, but generally pleasing to the eye. Very few off the rack boats offer this level of distinctiveness. It's a welcome site in a world of mostly generic designs.

 

Her tall fractional rig is deck stepped and fitted with discontinuous rod rigging. Her adjustable backstay is led to the swim platform and is difficult to adjust. Many owners have improved the original design with better purchase.

 

The helm is a huge wheel that spans the width of the cockpit well. It's design focuses on outboarrd use, with the helmsman seated on the high side. There is not much room to stand behind the wheel and most folks under power will stand on the aft cockpit seat, which works fine and gives good visibility forward. Below deck the Whitlock wheel is a rack and pinion system. No sloppy cables for this machine.

 

The deck is uncluttered and all lines run under deck, guided by simple and reliable deck organizers. The primary winches may seem a bit small for a 35 footer, but this is a fractional rig and her headsails are easily managed. The mainsheet system is mid-boom forward of the companionway hatch. Some racers have moved the mainsheet back to the cockpit with good results.

 

Drop the aft lifelines and you have easy access to the large sugar scoop swim platform. This is not some dinky platform and there is room for two people to sit comfortably. The swim ladder is completely hidden beneath a hatch. This is a popular spot on warm days, even under sail. The length of the platform gives good security and the backstay adds to this, without really getting in the way. Very nicely done!

 

Thick SS rails carve a path the length of the cabin trunk. Forward of the mast is the hatch over the V Birth and the anchor locker, which big enough for a single primary anchor, chain and 200 feet of rode. Unique to the 35s5, the roller furling drum rests beneath the foredeck, but is easily accessible through the anchor locker.

 

Her cockpit storage is cavernous, perhaps the largest I have ever seen. There is room for sails, gear and even a packed inflatable to starboard. The port storage can handle smaller gear, charts, lines and so on. If that's not enough, two aft hatches on either side of wheel lead to even more storage.

 

Down below is perhaps an even more dramatic statement. Philip Stark's interior work is easily recognizable by anyone who's studied modern design. Our interior features light teak veneer's over honeycomb bulkheads to safe weight. Most of the trim is solid teak and there is aluminum trim throughout. The aft doors to the head and aft cabin are gently curved and fitted with frosted glass ports. The aesthetic result feels both modern and old-world all at once. Everyone simply loves the interior. There are a total of 7 opening ports and 3 hatches on the 35s5. There are two non opening circular ports aft.

 

The aft cabin is short on headroom, but generous for sleeping. I'm 6'3 and my wife is 5'6 and we both fit easily. The lack of headroom can present some challenges to a sexually active couple, but where there's a will there's a way! A single closet and good storage make this very usable area. There are two opening ports to provide ventilation, but many folks will leave the door open on hot nights.

 

The navigation area of the 35s5 is well thought out and amazingly....a full size chart table slides out with storage beneath. There is ample storage here and the station is flanked by AC/DC panel and other instruments

 

The head of the 35s5 is one of the largest ever on a 35 footer. There is a real sink/vanity with great storage and a wet locker as well. The shower is of the sit down variety. There is an opening port in the head and an exhaust vent.

 

The galley is small, but very functional. Most boats have an oven/range which is gimbaled with a stout bracer bar. A slide away cutting board reveals the hatch to the 12V refrigeration and to the right of that, dual round SS sinks. Storage for the galley is fair and in our boat the large under-sink cabinet houses the air conditioning.

 

Forward of the galley is the traditional twin settees and the folding dining table. After owning a C&C 32, I learned to really appreciate the benefits of the dinette layout and miss it aboard the Beneteau. Still, there is comfortable seating here for 4 or 5. The center of the table has hidden wine storage below. Forward of the dining area is the forward cabin. It's small and I'm actually too tall for the V-birth. There are two small closets and more storage under the bunk.

 

Fit and finish of the 35s5 is above that of other Beneteaus. Sorry to say that, but the 35s5 was in another league compared to the boats that followed. Beneteau has let interior quality slip in recent years. Step aboard a 36.7 and compare the fit an finish. The 35s5 is better and our interior is in astounding shape. Cabinets and doors all shut as they should and fit-lines can be sighted as near perfect. We did not observe this level of quality even aboard the newer Tartans and Sabres we looked at. Some might complain about the use of veneers, but you can't have low weight honeycomb bulkheads and solid teak. The point here was to save weight. The execution of this design approach is excellent.

 

Under power the 35s5 gives no surprises. The Volvo diesel runs smoothly and pushes the boat easily even at lower RPMs, though the engine controls should have been mounted on the pedestal.

 

Under sail....ahhh, this is what it's all about! Hoist the impressively large mainsail and the 35s5 comes to life. Under main alone, she sails like a big dinghy, accelerating smartly even in lighter air. Balance is excellent. Pop the genoa and boat really takes flight. Upwind performance is excellent. Though light on her toes this is not an uncomfortable ride. Of the wind the boat remains impressively quick and she responds to the smallest helm inputs and trimming. If you like to play and adjust, the 35s5 will be a load of fun. Depower the rig a bit and the boat is more forgiving. Dead downwind the boat suffers somewhat, especially with her wing keel (Very serious racers should seek out the deep fin version). This is not to say she's slow downwind, but some newer racer/cruiser designs fare better. In heavier air it's important to have her rig properly tuned or she can misbehave when sailed hard.

 

I don't race, but a detailed look at the 35s5's race history tells a clear story. The 35s5 has a tough time with her rating. The fin version is often rated at 114, but the boats that can handle that must be expertly crewed and perfectly tuned. More casual racers can have a tough time. The wing version generally rates between 125-129 and that is also a low rating, which can be a tougher nut to crack, since wing keel owners may be less serious about racing to begin with. With that said, the 35s5 wins plenty of races and with a good crew and proper tuning she's a true racing machine.

 

For us, a family of 3, the Beneteau First 35s5 is many things. She's fast and fun to sail, even under main alone. She can also be sailed in a very relaxed fashion and her stunning interior and comforts make her a wonderful coastal cruiser. She's simply more fun than a Tartan, Catalina, Hunter or Sabre and sails better when winds dwindle. As the wind builds, so does the fun factor. The 35s5 is sort of like owning a J35 with the interior of a real cruising boat. 5 or 6 people can enjoy the spacious cockpit and her deckspace is truly usable. Few boats can wear so many hats with such grace and quality.

 

And so...we're quite happy with our 35s5...a fast and fun design that has Swiss Army knife-like versatility. The 35s5 is certainly one of Beneteau's most original designs. No sailor walks by without taking a long hard look and most love her lines and daring design elements. In the end, with all of the pretty bits and pieces, she's a sailors boat with the type of performance most of us crave.

 

 

Robert & Suzanne

First 35s5    HEART OF GOLD

City Island, NY

 

 

[dl...@aol.com]

COMMENTS

well you obviously were wearing your rose tinted glasses when you wrote
that loving review - certainly not an unbiased review - you love the
boat so much so that what many people see as drawbacks of this
particular Beneteau model you see as advantages - there are some
factual mistakes in there too - highlighting only one - this is not the
only Bennie with the foresail furling drum in the anchor locker - in
addition you gloss over this boats terrible handling when the wind gets
up - this is one of the most difficult boats that Beneteau have ever
made to get to sail well - for sure the 35s5 is not for a novice sailor
- i take issue with your assertion that " she's a sailors boat with the
type of performance most of us crave." she is a cranky boat that is
difficult to sail and very difficult to sail at anything close to her
maximum available performance. I would suggest that most sailors
want a easy boat to sail that when they are in the mood and with a
bunch of sailing buddies they can make perform - and hopefully win
with- should they decide to race - a boat with inherrent abilities
that when they are in crusing mode and in racing mode will make them
smile. We had a First ClassTen of around the same era i have pictures
of my wife sailing that at 10 and 18 knots 'my wife was a total novice
sailor great crew but not 100% comforable on the helm' she could not
sail a friends 35s5 in any decent breeze she thought it was her
inabilities not the boats cranky behaviour. I am not sure how many
Beneteau made of this particular model (35s5) but for sure it was not
one of the popular boats - i really dont know why they went for
'design' rather than evolution - trying to be different i suppose and
stand out from the crowd - they sure took a jump into a black hole and
while that worked for boats like the 45f5 and 53f5 it did not seem to
work for the smaller boats and the 's' range. You like the 35s5 i
dont - you have one and you sound delighted with her i dont and i am
equally delighted with my Bennie - horses for courses really.

regards

David

[Rick Donovan]

Why do you have to dump on this guy??
It is HIS review and HIS opinion?

If you don't agree keep it to yourself by using the delete key.

Rick Donovan
Biddeford, Maine
Beneteau 473 #29
Turn the Page

[Dean Forbis]

I thought it was great review. I like the 35s5. I have been on Ivars boat
and almost bought one. I love my 36.7 and Bill has a nice 42s7 too. The 36s7
is pretty cool too. There is a new 361 that I will get to see this weekend
as well and I bet I like it too...

Everyone have a nice weekend, even you DLM.

Dean

[Bobs...@aol.com]

In a message dated 6/16/2006 8:11:26 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, dl...@aol.com writes:

well you obviously were wearing your rose tinted glasses when you wrote
that loving review - certainly not an unbiased review -

 

Well that goes without saying. You were one of the few negatives I heard before I bought the boat, but I test sailed them and spoke to many owners. While some said they needed to learn the boat, no one had your experience and owners and guests alike raved about the boat. I really could find no factual basis in your comments about how the 35s5 sailed from people who owned or sailed them often, including local crews.

in
addition you gloss over this boats terrible handling when the wind gets
up - this is one of the most difficult boats that Beneteau have ever
made to get to sail well - for sure the 35s5 is not for a novice sailor

 

I'm not a novice sailor, but my wife is. It's VERY important to research a boat carefully if you want any chance of understanding it's design goals and limits. In this case I was well informed than a 35s5 must have a well tuned rig to sail properly. It is NOT forgiving of poor tuning and trim. I'm sorry to say that if you could not sail the boat well in heavy air then you were doing something wrong. We sailed in 20-25 knots last week and blasted along with an Express 35 at our side, no problem. My wife was able to sneak the boat upwind with ease and the only problem we had was with the klunky backstay (which we'll fix soon!). Our positive experience was the result in help from a local racer who helped get the rig setup right.

  I would suggest that most sailors
want a easy boat to sail that when they are in the mood and with a
bunch of sailing buddies they can make perform - and hopefully win
with-  should they decide to race - a boat with inherrent abilities
that when they are in crusing mode and in racing mode will make them
smile. 

 

I'm not going to debate what sailor's "want." We've had quite a few friends aboard (J24, J29 and J30 racers) and no one has yet to be underwhelmed by the 35s5 handling. In fact, when we were out in heavy air, the fellow at the helm preferred the handling to his C&C 37...a boat that I love to sail. While sailing on a reach, a reasonable amount of playing brought great rewards. Ignore her and she sails fine...loafs along like any other boat. Play with her rig, experiment and the rewards are great.

he could not
sail a friends 35s5 in any decent breeze she thought it was her
inabilities not the boats cranky behaviour. 

 

My wife is a novice. She finds the 35s5 easier to sail than the C&C 32 we owned, and that was a more forgiving boat and a good sailor. Frankly, after sailing 3 35s5's I can't imagine anyone having a hard time unless something was way out of tune or the boat simply overcanvassed. Any time anyone claims a boat is "cranky" I know they probably don't know the "tricks" that make the boat sail well. A J30 is a good example of this...tougher to sail well than a J29, but more practical to own and a heck of a lot of fun once you get it down. Still, I find many folks who've never owned a J30 call the boat "cranky" or "squirrely."

 

I am not sure how many
Beneteau made of this particular model (35s5)  but for sure it was not
one of the popular boats - i really dont know why they went for
'design' rather than evolution >>>

 

I believe they made more than 400 of them, with about half coming to the USA. We have 3 of them local to us and more further up the LIS. I think if you research comments by owners and by others who have sailed the 35s5 you'll come to realize that your experience is not exactly the common reaction.

- trying to be different i suppose and
stand out from the crowd - they sure took a jump into a black hole

 

The 35s5 was part of an ongoing successful evolution. Sadly, the quality interior work did not extend into future models. Even my local Beneteau dealer says the 345 and 35s5 have the best built interiors.

You like the 35s5 i
dont - you have one and you sound delighted with her i dont and i am
equally delighted with my Bennie - horses for courses really.

 

Perhaps...but I don't try to judge sailing performance of any design without many, many hours and days at the helm. When I first began sailing a J30 I thought pretty much what you think of the 35s5. Then, after a while and with the help of those who knew the boat, I learned how to sail it. I think there's an envelope of sailing performance that most builders try to stay within, dialing as much performance in as possible for a broad range of experience. Some boats don't do this as well and require a bigger learning curve. While my wife and I have had no trouble sailing the 35s5, we also had the good fortune of having her setup correctly from the start. This was something I was told was KEY for the 35s5 a year before I bought one.

 

By the way, We've owned the following boats: Catalina 27 (5 years), Pearson 30 (3 Years), C&C 32 (3 years). These WERE more forgiving boats to be sure. As a part time broker, I've also sailed quite a few Beneteau's, Catalinas and all the rest! I think I know what you mean by "forgiving" but not all sailors want that as an inherent trait. We make the 35s5 forgiving when required...quite easy. But inherently she is very sensitive and requires attention to sail at her best. I agree that's not a quality everyone likes or they wouldn't be selling Nonsuch and Freedom's to plenty of families, right?

 

While my review is "glowing" it's also based on the sailing feedback from experienced sailors aboard my boat who make no bones about what they like and don't like. Do I think the 35s5 is perfect? Nope...not even close. But I do think it's one of the best values around, though more as a fast coastal cruiser than an all-out racer. If you want "cranky" on an even higher level, try a J35 on a run through some slop and you'll find the 35s5 will track better. J35's are still great though...you just need to learn those tricks. Honestly, I've yet to sail any fast boat, including the 36.7 that didn't need careful attention. I had a harder time with the 36.7 upwind, but then I only sailed the boat twice. It takes much more than that.

 

 

Robert & Suzanne

[dl...@aol.com]

I thought - NO in fact i am 100% sure - he asked for comments - in fact
i thought the post was posted here specifically to get opinions - if
that was not the case a simple link to the web site woiuld have been
all that was needed. Are you saying (you and using your crystal ball -
he) only wanted to hear people who agreed with what he wrote - how sad
- but how typical of far too many vocal Americans at this moment in
time - glad to see your with the - your either for us or against us
group - even sadder - maybe you want to go read your constitution - but
no you want to change that as well - since it does not fit your way of
looking at things.

Why have a go at me for voicing my comments maybe you should read what
i wrote without reading into it anything more than me voicing my
opinion - that was in actual fact requested.

David

-----Original Message-----
From: Rick Donovan <richard....@verizon.net>
To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com

Sent: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 08:48:22 -0400
Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

[Bobs...@aol.com]

In a message dated 6/16/2006 9:02:04 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, dfo...@customcorr.com writes:

I thought it was great review. I like the 35s5. I have been on Ivars boat
and almost bought one. I love my 36.7 and Bill has a nice 42s7 too. The 36s7
is pretty cool too.

 

 

I don't mind Dave's comments at all. Dave has written his opinion on the boat before. But his opinion and experience with it are just not typical, so it had no effect on me buying the boat. When I sailed a 35s5 in Florida, it was blowing beyond 20 knots. Several times I rounded up and it felt like I'd never get the boat under control. I tried easing the main, with limited success. That would have been all that was required to depower my C&C. But the owner yanked on the backstay and retrimmed the main...and we were flying...probably surfing somewhat touching 9 knots as we head took off on a close reach. He knew the boat of course. My learning curve with her has gone well, but I'm still learning. We took her out in moderate air with our two year old. I hoisted the main, and sailed around as if she was a big Laser! I couldn't believe how much fun we were having barely trimming and just flopping her about...still sailing pretty fast!

 

 

Robert & Suzanne

35s5 Heart of Gold

NY

[Bobs...@aol.com]

In a message dated 6/16/2006 9:09:56 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, dl...@aol.com writes:

I thought - NO in fact i am 100% sure - he asked for comments - in fact
i thought the post was posted here specifically to get opinions -

 

 

I said COMMENTS WELCOME

 

I should have said, "ONLY GLOWING COMMENTS AGREEING WITH ME IN EVERY WAY WELCOME!"

 

Okay, guys. They are just boats. Chill out. Someone buy me a new Mac26!

 

 

 

 

Robert & Suzanne

35s5

NY

 

 

 

 

[Ivars]

David,

You must be into the rocket polish again :=)

Drop that kilt and lighten up

> [Original Message]
> From: <dl...@aol.com>
> To: <Benetea...@googlegroups.com>
> Date: 6/16/2006 9:10:22 AM

> Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom
>
>

> I thought - NO in fact i am 100% sure - he asked for comments - in fact

[Bobs...@aol.com]

Man...I'm off to North Carolina in about two hours to sail Hobie cats! I'm gonna miss this thread. Ahh well...I'll read it all when I get back!

 

 

 

"I like the Beneteau 35s5 better than the Swan 47 in almost every way."

-Dennis Connor-1996

 

"The 35s5 is probably the best boat ever built and if I could use two of them as a multi, I'd break every record for crossing oceans."

-Isabelle Autissier-2001

 

"If I was still alive, I'd be sailing a 35s5 every day!"

-Carl Alberg-2006

[Dean Forbis]

Bob,

 

Where in NC?

 

Dean

-----Original Message-----
From: Benetea...@googlegroups.com [mailto:Benetea...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Bobs...@aol.com
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 9:24 AM
To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com
Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

[David Egen]

It's not what said but the manner of saying. Solution? My message routing
now directs "dlm48"

directly to the delete folder.

D. Egen

-------Original Message-------

From: dl...@aol.com

Date: 06/16/06 09:11:43

To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com

Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

I thought - NO in fact I am 100% sure - he asked for comments - in fact

I thought the post was posted here specifically to get opinions - if

that was not the case a simple link to the web site woiuld have been

all that was needed. Are you saying (you and using your crystal ball -

he) only wanted to hear people who agreed with what he wrote - how sad

- but how typical of far too many vocal Americans at this moment in

time - glad to see your with the - your either for us or against us

group - even sadder - maybe you want to go read your constitution - but

no you want to change that as well - since it does not fit your way of

looking at things.

Why have a go at me for voicing my comments maybe you should read what

I wrote without reading into it anything more than me voicing my

[Noble, Milner E.]

Dean wrote: Everyone have a nice weekend

I'm going to have a GREAT weekend! Sun at last, and the boat went in
the water yesterday. :-)
--Milner

-----Original Message-----
From: Benetea...@googlegroups.com
[mailto:Benetea...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Dean Forbis
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 9:12 AM
To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com
Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

I thought it was great review. I like the 35s5. I have been on Ivars
boat and almost bought one. I love my 36.7 and Bill has a nice 42s7 too.

The 36s7 is pretty cool too. There is a new 361 that I will get to see

this weekend as well and I bet I like it too...

Everyone have a nice weekend, even you DLM.

Dean

-----Original Message-----
From: Benetea...@googlegroups.com
[mailto:Benetea...@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Rick Donovan
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 8:48 AM
To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com
Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

Why do you have to dump on this guy??
It is HIS review and HIS opinion?

If you don't agree keep it to yourself by using the delete key.

Rick Donovan
Biddeford, Maine
Beneteau 473 #29
Turn the Page

Confidentiality Notice:
This message, and any attachments, may contain information that is confidential, privileged, and/or protected from disclosure under state and federal laws that deal with the privacy and security of medical information. If you received this message in error or through inappropriate means, please reply to this message to notify the Sender that the message was received by you in error, and then permanently delete this message from all storage media, without forwarding or retaining a copy.

[dl...@aol.com]

-----Original Message-----
From: Bobs...@aol.com
To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com

Sent: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 09:02:49 EDT
Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

In a message dated 6/16/2006 8:11:26 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,
dl...@aol.com writes:
well you obviously were wearing your rose tinted glasses when you
wrote that loving review - certainly not an unbiased review -
Well that goes without saying. You were one of the few negatives I
heard before I bought the boat, but I test sailed them and spoke to
many owners. While some said they needed to learn the boat, no one had
your experience and owners and guests alike raved about the boat. I
really could find no factual basis in your comments about how the 35s5
sailed from people who owned or sailed them often, including local
crews.

+++++++
well at least you will note i am consistent and hey it is so easy to
say nice things and say all Bennies are wonderful.
+++++++

in addition you gloss over this boats terrible handling when the wind
gets up - this is one of the most difficult boats that Beneteau have
ever made to get to sail well - for sure the 35s5 is not for a novice
sailor
I'm not a novice sailor, but my wife is. It's VERY important to
research a boat carefully if you want any chance of understanding it's
design goals and limits. In this case I was well informed than a 35s5
must have a well tuned rig to sail properly. It is NOT forgiving of
poor tuning and trim. I'm sorry to say that if you could not sail the
boat well in heavy air then you were doing something wrong. We sailed
in 20-25 knots last week and blasted along with an Express 35 at our
side, no problem. My wife was able to sneak the boat upwind with ease
and the only problem we had was with the klunky backstay (which we'll
fix soon!). Our positive experience was the result in help from a local
racer who helped get the rig setup right.

+++++
I still stand by what i wrote that this is one of the most difficult
boats to sail well that Beneteau have ever built Beneteau are i would
suggest building boats for the masses - i never suggested that we had
any problems sailing her ( my friends boat) it is just a boat that you
have to be on top of ever every second of the race and a boat that will
bite you hard in the bum if you are not switched on totally with her -
you like her i dont - when i want to sail like that i will go out in an
out and out racing boat a well sailed Sigma33 a boat you probably wont
know will take a F35s5 apart on the race course both on the water and
handicap our First 35 the Beret boat would beat the 35s5 day in day out
which was why i was skippering the 35s5 in the winter series.
+++++

I would suggest that most sailors want a easy boat to sail that when
they are in the mood and with a
bunch of sailing buddies they can make perform - and hopefully win

with- should they decide to race - a boat with inherent abilities
that when they are in cruising mode and in racing mode will make them

smile.
I'm not going to debate what sailor's "want." We've had quite a few
friends aboard (J24, J29 and J30 racers) and no one has yet to be
underwhelmed by the 35s5 handling. In fact, when we were out in heavy
air, the fellow at the helm preferred the handling to his C&C 37...a
boat that I love to sail. While sailing on a reach, a reasonable amount
of playing brought great rewards. Ignore her and she sails fine...loafs
along like any other boat. Play with her rig, experiment and the
rewards are great.

+++++
not going to debate it but willing to write it in your review of the
F35s5 interesting mindset mmmmmmmm
+++++

she could not sail a friends 35s5 in any decent breeze she thought it

was her inabilities not the boats cranky behaviour.
My wife is a novice. She finds the 35s5 easier to sail than the C&C 32
we owned, and that was a more forgiving boat and a good sailor.
Frankly, after sailing 3 35s5's I can't imagine anyone having a hard
time unless something was way out of tune or the boat simply
overcanvassed. Any time anyone claims a boat is "cranky" I know they
probably don't know the "tricks" that make the boat sail well. A J30 is
a good example of this...tougher to sail well than a J29, but more
practical to own and a heck of a lot of fun once you get it down.
Still, I find many folks who've never owned a J30 call the boat
"cranky" or "squirrely."

I am not sure how many
Beneteau made of this particular model (35s5) but for sure it was not
one of the popular boats - i really dont know why they went for
'design' rather than evolution >>>
I believe they made more than 400 of them, with about half coming to
the USA. We have 3 of them local to us and more further up the LIS. I
think if you research comments by owners and by others who have sailed
the 35s5 you'll come to realize that your experience is not exactly the
common reaction.

++++++
comes down to horses for courses again - you think the boat is
wonderful - i dont it is that simple - and i would suggest that no
amount of writing will change either of our positions - i can live with
that.
++++++

- trying to be different i suppose and stand out from the crowd - they
sure took a jump into a black hole
The 35s5 was part of an ongoing successful evolution. Sadly, the
quality interior work did not extend into future models. Even my local
Beneteau dealer says the 345 and 35s5 have the best built interiors.

+++++

again we disagree in two areas the evolution came to an sudden end and
Beneteau went back to designing their own interiors and left the design
element to 'yacht designers' like Frers, Farr, Beret now B&R and Finot.

as to quality of construction i cant agree with your assertion their
either but as this is subjective unlike the evolution i would take up
more time and bandwidth i listing what i think are some of the best
quality interiors.
+++++

You like the 35s5 i dont - you have one and you sound delighted with
her i dont and i am
equally delighted with my Bennie - horses for courses really.

Perhaps...but I don't try to judge sailing performance of any design
without many, many hours and days at the helm. When I first began
sailing a J30 I thought pretty much what you think of the 35s5. Then,
after a while and with the help of those who knew the boat, I learned
how to sail it. I think there's an envelope of sailing performance that
most builders try to stay within, dialing as much performance in as
possible for a broad range of experience. Some boats don't do this as
well and require a bigger learning curve. While my wife and I have had
no trouble sailing the 35s5, we also had the good fortune of having her
setup correctly from the start. This was something I was told was KEY
for the 35s5 a year before I bought one.

++++++
NO perhaps there at all of one fact in all of this of that i am sure -
and you do further confirm that the 35s5 is cranky when you say you
have her set up correctly
+++++

By the way, We've owned the following boats: Catalina 27 (5 years),
Pearson 30 (3 Years), C&C 32 (3 years). These WERE more forgiving boats
to be sure. As a part time broker, I've also sailed quite a few
Beneteau's, Catalinas and all the rest! I think I know what you mean by
"forgiving" but not all sailors want that as an inherent trait. We make
the 35s5 forgiving when required...quite easy. But inherently she is
very sensitive and requires attention to sail at her best. I agree
that's not a quality everyone likes or they wouldn't be selling Nonsuch
and Freedom's to plenty of families, right?

+++++

I am not going to banter sailing CV's with you - i dont think i used
the word "forgiving" what i was attempting to say was a boat that
responds to you sailing her well trimming the sails well in giving
increased performance but will respond to an 'lazy' sailor in a middle
of the road way - without giving them any moments of feeling the boat
is in control and they are not - is a much more relaxing way to sail
and what the masses seek from their boats - and where Beneteau is
positioning themselves now - Remembering that there was not the
cruising Oceanis and the racing First line in those days with the
Firsts being the out and out racers that they are much more like these
days- i dont have a problem saying sail the 35s5 well and she will
reward you at all - but be careless and she will bite you in the bum -
and i dont have a problem saying the 35s5 is a very individual boat -
probably for those who want something a little different either.
++++++

While my review is "glowing" it's also based on the sailing feedback
from experienced sailors aboard my boat who make no bones about what
they like and don't like. Do I think the 35s5 is perfect? Nope...not
even close. But I do think it's one of the best values around, though
more as a fast coastal cruiser than an all-out racer. If you want
"cranky" on an even higher level, try a J35 on a run through some slop
and you'll find the 35s5 will track better. J35's are still great
though...you just need to learn those tricks. Honestly, I've yet to
sail any fast boat, including the 36.7 that didn't need careful
attention. I had a harder time with the 36.7 upwind, but then I only
sailed the boat twice. It takes much more than that.

++++++

well you would say all of that would you not :-) it takes a brave man
to give equal air and status to their boats good and bad points being
that it is probably a decision that they have laboured long over and
spent considerable dollars on as well - Finally you are a broker as
well ;-)

++++++

Robert & Suzanne
35s5 HEART OF GOLD
City Island, NY

regards

David

[dl...@aol.com]

send that to RD i am one of the most laid back people you will ever
meet - that does not mean i dont have strongly held views :-)

why some people get so worked up :-) well lets not go there

owell

thanks for calling me David Ivar i HATE being called Dave ;-)

regards

David

[dl...@aol.com]

well only he wont get this - unless you reply he he

its YOUR mindset not words on screen that create your perceptions

going sailing soon

David

PS how did he know i said something if my posts go into the delete
folder is he a secret night time reader of his delete folder or is
there another more serious explanation i heard that the CIA now read
all of my mails :-) mmmmm STRANGE!!!!!

[dl...@aol.com]

How come not one of you out there with Bennies with the furling drum in
the anchor locker did not say i have one on my Bennie xxxx so it is not
an unique feature of the 35s5.

inquiring minds would like to know.

Also if you really really like a 35s5 your going to hate an Oceanis 361
chalk and cheese come to mind But if you do buy an O361 i can totally
understand you 'saying' i like a 35s5 - but by voting with your wallet
you are just being a bit more honest in deciding what boat you really
like or the admiral will let you have :-)

regards

David

[Bobs...@aol.com]

Beneteau are i would
suggest building boats for the masses - i never suggested that we had
any problems sailing her ( my friends boat) it is just a boat that you
have to be on top of ever every second of the race and a boat that will
bite you hard in the bum if you are not switched on totally with her - >>>

 

Keep in mind that we bought this boat as a PERFORMANCE CRUISER. I really don't believe in handicap racing...not my cup of tea. Unless all of the boats are identical, I don't see it as much of a race. But that's another debate!

As a performance cruiser the 35s5 provides good comfort and quite a bit of speed. Sailed in such a manner she's not likely to bite one on the bum...hasn't bitten us yet. My review mentions that I don't race and so the focus of the review is certainly not on racing. If I was serious about racing I'd buy a J or Melges...boats that can compete in a class.

 

<<<Sigma33 a boat you probably wont
know will take a F35s5 apart on the race course both on the water and
handicap our First 35 the Beret boat would beat the 35s5 day in day out
which was why i was skippering the 35s5 in the winter series>>>

Both the sigma and the First 35 lack the family oriented elements (swim platform and nice interior for starters) that the 35s5 has. First 35's are also pretty rare around here and usually trashed. The 345 is a more likely suspect.

 

<<<as to quality of construction i cant agree with your assertion their
either but as this is subjective unlike the evolution>>>

As a broker I get to inspect a lot of boats. Some interiors are overrated...others not. Many of the Beneteau interiors now are motorhome grade or lower. If you're friendly with any US dealers, they'll tell you it's a top complaint. The interior fit and finish of the 35s5 is really in another league. My boat is 16 years old and the fit still blows away any new Beneteau, Catalina or Hunter...and Hunter has made mighty strides to improve their craftsmanship. As for overrated boats...a 1990 Sabre 34 we sailed had surprisingly poor fit and finish.

 

<<<and you do further confirm that the 35s5 is cranky when you say you
have her set up correctly>>>

No, I confirmed that she was as cranky as any other fast boat that I later came to know and  sail well...as in the example of the J30. When the skills improve and the beast is tamed...who was the cranky one? Me or the boat?

 

<<<without giving them any moments of feeling the boat
is in control and they are not - is a much more relaxing way to sail
and what the masses seek from their boats >>>

I've sailed J35's, C&C 34XL, J29, J30 and a host of boats that will bite you on the bum quite hard when sailed hard...if you make a mistake. The 35s5 is no different except that it offers better cruising comforts than most boats with her turn of speed.

I don't now where you're located, but if you care to try my boat her rig is tuned correctly and any 10 year old can helm her on heavy air. I know because my wife sails like a 9 year old...okay that was uncalled for!

 

<<<and i would suggest that no
amount of writing will change either of our positions >>>

 

 

 Ahhh but you haven't heard the story of how we had a girl aboard, who lost both arms in a shark attack and sailed the boat easily with just her feet. She said the 35s5 had plenty of sole.

[dl...@aol.com]

yeah yeah yeah and she came back as an octopussy so she could sail
single handed

regards

David

-----Original Message-----
From: Bobs...@aol.com
To: Benetea...@googlegroups.com
Sent: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 10:48:41 EDT
Subject: {Beneteau Owners} Re: 35s5 and the Temple of Doom

________________________________________________________________________
Check out AOL.com today. Breaking news, video search, pictures, email
and IM. All on demand. Always Free.

[Larry Cohan]

David, I personally find your review of Bob's review (and subsequent comments):

• Overly aggressive
• Insulting (e.g. your comments on "vocal Americans")
  
• Bitter
• Anti-social
• Egotistical
• and totally unnecessary.  None of us were so naive as to take Bob's review as being independent, unbiased, or even totally factual.  We took it for what it was.  A proud owner's comments about his loved one.  Most of us feel that way about our boats.  Having some self-declared referee pick holes in our pride is, in a word, unhelpful.
  

HO HUM, OWELL and TSK TSK,

Larry

[Jim Martin]

Because I'm just now reading the thread. Yes, our 32s5 has below deck furling. Still not sure I'm that crazy about it after owning the boat 7 years. The previous owner had clearance problems with the drum rubbing the deck. After we purchased the boat Beneteau replaced the 9-year old furler at no charge. Unfortunately the rubbing also ate away some of the deck aperture, which still looks bad. I've improved the looks with some aftermarket binding but it really needs some glass work. I built a couple of whitewater C-1's in a former life but I know if I try this repair it will give new meaning to the term "butt-ugly".

Anyway, I'm not so sure a deck-sweeper genoa is that much of an asset except in light wind situations when close-hauled. If the boat is heeled very much, the bow blocks the wind from the foot of the sail. If sailing other than close-hauled the lifeline puts a kink in the sail's foot. Our furler rarely tangles but when it does, I have to open the anchor locker to untangle it.

I'll admit the 32s5, and maybe larger members of the Berret/Stark family, can be difficult to sail well. I don't pretend to be able to sail it to its potential. But even with my modest skills it is a fast 32 footer. I prefer it to the affordable alternatives (insert Hunter, Catalina or even Oceanis here). It can be tender, too. I just need to reef early, before the wind gets above 17-18 knots.

Jim Martin
32s5 Aquila

_ _

Jim Martin

Peachtree Laser, Inc.

404-352-2565

email: mailto:ptl...@bellsouth.net

website: peachtreelaser.com

[Michael]

DEAN
Nice 42s7.It is the greatest boat ever made. Now go to confession.Tethys
will seek you out.
Mike Roper Ropabull B42s7