Built during Chris-Craft's ambitious foray into serious sailboat construction, this Sparkman & Stephens-designed cruiser represents a fascinating chapter in American boatbuilding history. Produced from 1965 to 1976 with only 100 hulls completed, the Caribbean 35 emerged during an era when powerboat manufacturers were exploring the growing cruising sailboat market. The design showcases classic S&S proportions with a traditional long keel configuration that prioritizes directional stability and seakindly motion over racing performance. With a substantial displacement of 18,000 pounds and a comfort ratio of 39.21, this masthead sloop was clearly intended for extended coastal cruising and offshore passages rather than weekend racing. The conservative sail area to displacement ratio of 13.49 reflects this cruising orientation, favoring manageable sail handling over outright speed. The long keel design provides excellent tracking and predictable handling characteristics, making it well-suited for shorthanded sailing and long-distance cruising. While the moderate beam and traditional lines may sacrifice some interior volume compared to modern designs, they contribute to the boat's reputation for seaworthiness and classical sailing qualities that Sparkman & Stephens designs are renowned for.
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What is the Caribbean 35 Chris Craft's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Caribbean 35 Chris Craft has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.49. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Caribbean 35 Chris Craft's comfort ratio?
The Caribbean 35 Chris Craft has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 39.21. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Caribbean 35 Chris Craft safe for offshore sailing?
The Caribbean 35 Chris Craft has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.68. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Caribbean 35 Chris Craft?
The theoretical hull speed of the Caribbean 35 Chris Craft is 6.90 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Caribbean 35 Chris Craft weigh?
The Caribbean 35 Chris Craft has a displacement of 18,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 35.18 ft.
Who designed the Caribbean 35 Chris Craft?
The Caribbean 35 Chris Craft was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, first built in 1965.