Designed by Bruce Kelley and built by Hooks Yacht & Marine starting in 1982, this 34-footer represents a well-balanced approach to coastal cruising and club racing. The fiberglass construction features a fin keel with rudder mounted on a skeg, providing good directional stability while maintaining reasonable maneuverability in tight quarters. With a displacement of 10,150 pounds and 4,200 pounds of ballast, the Kelley 34 strikes a moderate balance between performance and comfort. The masthead sloop rig carries 538 square feet of sail area, delivering respectable sailing performance with a theoretical hull speed of 7.03 knots. The sail area to displacement ratio of 18.42 suggests spirited performance in moderate conditions without being overpowered in fresh breezes. The boat's comfort ratio of 21.47 indicates a motion that favors performance over ultimate stability, making it well-suited for sailors who enjoy an engaging helm feel. The capsize screening formula of 2.07 falls within acceptable limits for coastal cruising with experienced crews. At nearly 34 feet overall with an 11.16-foot beam and moderate 4-foot draft, this design offers practical accommodations while remaining trailerable to many sailing venues. The reliable 24-horsepower auxiliary provides adequate power for maneuvering and motorsailing in light conditions.
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What is the Kelley 34's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Kelley 34 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.42. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Kelley 34's comfort ratio?
The Kelley 34 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 21.47. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Kelley 34 safe for offshore sailing?
The Kelley 34 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 Kelley 34?
The theoretical hull speed of the Kelley 34 is 7.03 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Kelley 34 weigh?
The Kelley 34 has a displacement of 10,150.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 33.83 ft.
Who designed the Kelley 34?
The Kelley 34 was designed by Bruce Kelley, first built in 1982.