Built by Mooney Marine starting in 1979, this Charles Whittolz-designed 35-footer represents classic American cruising boat philosophy with its robust steel construction and traditional long keel configuration. The single-chine steel hull design offers exceptional durability for serious cruising sailors, though it requires more maintenance vigilance than fiberglass alternatives. With a generous beam of 11 feet and substantial displacement of 16,480 pounds, the Departure 35 provides impressive interior volume and seaworthiness. The cutter rig configuration enhances versatility in varying wind conditions, making it particularly well-suited for offshore passages and extended coastal cruising. A comfort ratio of 33.92 indicates excellent motion characteristics in rough seas, while the capsize screening formula of 1.73 suggests good stability for ocean work. The long keel with transom-hung rudder delivers predictable handling and excellent tracking, though maneuverability in tight quarters may be more challenging than modern fin-keel designs. The 658 square feet of sail area provides adequate power for the boat's displacement, though performance will favor comfort over speed. This design appeals to sailors prioritizing strength, seaworthiness, and traditional sailing characteristics over racing performance or ease of handling.
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What is the Departure 35's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Departure 35 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.32. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Departure 35's comfort ratio?
The Departure 35 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.92. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Departure 35 safe for offshore sailing?
The Departure 35 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.73. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Departure 35?
The theoretical hull speed of the Departure 35 is 7.22 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Departure 35 weigh?
The Departure 35 has a displacement of 16,480.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 35.00 ft.
Who designed the Departure 35?
The Departure 35 was designed by Charles Whittolz, first built in 1979.