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Pdq 34
Designer: Ted Clements  ·  Builder: Pdq Yachts Inc. (Can)  ·  First built: 1988
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About the Pdq 34

Built during a brief but productive four-year run from 1988 to 1991, this Canadian-designed catamaran represents Ted Clements' approach to accessible multihull cruising. Pdq Yachts Inc. constructed these fiberglass catamarans with twin centerboards, creating a versatile shallow-draft vessel that could explore skinny waters while maintaining decent windward performance. At nearly 35 feet overall with an 18-foot beam, the design strikes a balance between interior volume and trailering practicality that made it appealing to coastal cruisers seeking catamaran advantages without extreme size. The fractional sloop rig provides manageable sail handling for shorthanded crews, while the modest 2.75-foot draft opens up countless anchorages denied to deeper-keeled monohulls. With 8,000 pounds of displacement spread across twin hulls, this catamaran delivers the stability and motion characteristics that draw sailors to multihulls—reduced heeling, faster passages, and spacious accommodations. The centerboard configuration allows for easy beaching and launching from shallow ramps, making it well-suited for coastal exploration, weekend getaways, and protected water cruising. Though production ceased in 1991, these boats developed a loyal following among sailors who appreciate their practical size, shoal draft capabilities, and the comfort advantages inherent in catamaran design.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 34.67 ft / 10.57 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 32.58 ft / 9.93 m
Beam 18.25 ft / 5.56 m
Max Draft 2.75 ft / 0.84 m
Displacement 8,000.00 lb / 3,629 kg
Design & Construction
Hull Type Catamaran Twin Cbrd.
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Ted Clements
Builder PDQ Yachts Inc. (CAN)
First Built 1988
Last Built 1991
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Performance Ratios
Comfort Ratio Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
7.72
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
3.66
Hull Speed Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions. 7.65 kn
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 12.74 pounds/inch
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