In Stock
Cleveland, Ohio

1988 J Boats J/35 | 35ft

$43900
Turnkey racer-cruiser with updated maintenance, full interior, and recent survey. Ready for racing or weeklong cruising!
1988 J Boats J/35 | 35ft

Turn Key 1988 J35 with complete interior ready for a a week long cruise or racing around the buoys. Meticulously cared for, maintenance up to date, and a recent survey.

The 1988 J/35 sailboat maintains a strong reputation as an excellent performer in both racing circuits and cruising adventures. Here’s a comprehensive review of this sailboat, looking at its design, performance, comfort, and overall value:

Design and Build Quality

The J/35, designed by Rod Johnstone, is a testament to thoughtful naval architecture that emphasizes performance without compromising durability. Its fiberglass hull with a balsa core construction ensures a lightweight yet sturdy build, which is an asset in competitive racing. The boat’s design, with a fractional rig and a sleek hull form, facilitates good handling and speed, making it a favorite in the racing community.

Performance

One of the standout features of the J/35 is its performance capabilities. The boat excels in both light and heavy wind conditions, providing a responsive and agile feel at the helm. Its well-balanced spade rudder and fin keel contribute to its impressive maneuverability and upwind ability. The sail plan is versatile, allowing sailors to optimize performance based on varying wind conditions. This has made the J/35 a popular choice in regattas and has contributed to its enduring presence in competitive racing.

Interior and Comfort

While primarily designed as a race boat, the J/35 also offers a reasonable level of comfort for cruising. The interior, though utilitarian, includes enough amenities for weekend trips or short cruises. It can sleep up to six people with a traditional layout of V-berth forward, settees in the main salon, and quarter berths aft. The galley, though compact, is functional with basic necessities such as a stove, sink, and storage. The boat also features a practical marine head with a privacy door, which is a plus for longer stints on the water.

Maintenance and Upkeep

As with any boat of its age, the condition of a 1988 J/35 can vary significantly based on previous ownership and maintenance. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to common issues like osmosis in the hull, the condition of the standing and running rigging, and the functionality of onboard systems. However, the J/35 is generally regarded as a boat that ages well if properly maintained.

Market Value and Availability

The J/35 holds its value remarkably well in the used sailboat market, reflecting its popularity and demand among sailors. Its strong racing pedigree and suitability for cruising make it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers. Availability can vary by region, with higher concentrations in areas with active racing communities.

Conclusion

The 1988 J/35 is a well-rounded sailboat that offers a great blend of performance, simplicity, and utility. It appeals to serious racers and cruising enthusiasts alike, thanks to its strong build and adaptable layout. While it may require some updates and maintenance to meet modern standards, its fundamental qualities as a fast and fun sailboat remain undisputed. For those looking for a competitive edge in club racing or a capable cruiser that can handle the rigors of longer voyages, the J/35 is a compelling choice.

ENGINE
Yanmar
ENGINE HOURS
500
CLASS
Racer
LENGTH
35.42ft