Built during an era when sailboat design emphasized seaworthiness over speed, the Defender 35 represents classic cruising yacht principles that prioritized safety and comfort for extended passages. This moderate-displacement cruiser gained recognition among sailors seeking a reliable platform for coastal and offshore adventures. The Defender 35's design philosophy centers around traditional sailing characteristics, featuring a full keel configuration that provides excellent tracking and stability in challenging conditions. Her sturdy construction and conservative sail plan make her particularly well-suited for cruising couples or small families who value predictable handling over racing performance. Notable for her spacious cockpit and well-protected helm position, the Defender 35 offers the kind of secure feeling that builds confidence during longer passages or when weather conditions deteriorate. The interior layout typically maximizes living space while maintaining the structural integrity needed for serious cruising. While not breaking any speed records, this yacht has earned respect among the cruising community for her ability to handle varied conditions with grace. Her reputation rests on delivering dependable performance whether exploring coastal waters or undertaking extended offshore voyages, making her an appealing choice for sailors who prioritize seaworthiness and comfort over pure sailing performance.
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What is the Defender 35's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Defender 35 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.37. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Defender 35's comfort ratio?
The Defender 35 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 18.98. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Defender 35 safe for offshore sailing?
The Defender 35 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.07. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Defender 35?
The theoretical hull speed of the Defender 35 is 7.23 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Defender 35 weigh?
The Defender 35 has a displacement of 8,999.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 35.27 ft.
Who designed the Defender 35?
The Defender 35 was designed by Eva M. Hollman, first built in 1978.