J Boats J/35

Very clean and well maintained J35C. Ready to sail away.

Recent updates:

• New batteries 2024
• New engine insulation
• New bottom
• New Genoa / Doyle 2025
• New running rigging 2025
• New Autopilot 2026
• Wax and buff of the hull side and deck done every year.

This is the cruising J35 with a performance aspect to it. This vessel has been cared for and it shows. Ready for it's next adventure.

1992 J/35C: Performance Heritage Meets Cruising Comfort

Few boats capture the balance between race-bred performance and practical cruising capability as well as the J/35C. Introduced as a cruising-oriented evolution of the highly successful J/35 racer, the J/35C carries forward the pedigree that made the original a dominant force on race courses—while offering the comfort and versatility sailors demand for extended adventures.

A Proven Hull with Racing DNA

The J/35 was designed by Rod Johnstone and quickly earned a reputation in the 1980s for its speed, balance, and one-design success. By 1992, the J/35C had refined that winning formula into a more cruiser-friendly package without sacrificing the lively performance that defines the brand.

With a length overall of approximately 35 feet, a beam just under 11 feet, and a deep fin keel, the J/35C remains stiff and responsive under sail. The fractional rig provides excellent upwind performance and allows for precise sail control across a range of conditions. In moderate to heavy air, the boat tracks confidently, rewarding attentive helming with impressive pointing ability and strong VMG.

Downwind, the hull form—relatively light for its size with a fine entry and flat run aft—encourages planing in stronger breezes. It’s a boat that still feels competitive decades after launch.

Designed for Real-World Cruising

Where the J/35C distinguishes itself from its racing predecessor is below deck. The interior was thoughtfully reconfigured to support family cruising and weekend comfort.

A warm teak finish gives the cabin a classic nautical feel. The main saloon features settees port and starboard around a central drop-leaf table, creating a social and functional living space. Forward, a private V-berth cabin offers comfortable accommodations, while aft quarter berths provide additional sleeping space for crew or guests.

The galley is practical and seaworthy, typically arranged with a gimbaled stove, icebox or refrigeration, and generous counter space. Opposite the galley, a navigation station provides a dedicated area for chart work and electronics—an essential feature for passagemaking or overnight racing.

With standing headroom and sensible storage throughout, the J/35C bridges the gap between performance and livability in a way few racer-cruisers of its era managed successfully.

On Deck: Purposeful and Efficient

Deck layout on the J/35C remains true to its racing roots. Primary winches are within reach of the helm, and sail controls are logically led for efficient trimming. The cockpit is spacious enough for active crew work yet comfortable for cruising, with long benches ideal for relaxing at anchor.

Side decks are wide and secure, with well-positioned handholds for safe movement forward. The foredeck remains large enough for confident headsail handling, whether during a club race or while changing sails on a coastal passage.

A Timeless Choice

More than thirty years on, the 1992 J/35C continues to attract sailors who appreciate performance without giving up comfort. It’s a boat equally suited to competitive PHRF racing, spirited daysailing, and extended weekend cruising.

Owners often describe the J/35C as a “sailor’s boat”—responsive, communicative at the helm, and capable of rewarding skill. At the same time, it offers the warmth and practicality that transform a fast hull into a true cruising companion.

For sailors seeking a classic racer-cruiser with enduring appeal, the 1992 J/35C remains a compelling and capable choice—proof that great design never goes out of style.