The Rafiki 35 is a heavy-displacement bluewater cutter designed by Stan Huntingford and built by Lien Hwa Industrial Corp. in Taiwan from 1977 to 1992. At 34.7 feet LOA with a displacement of 16,500 pounds, she carries a displacement-to-length ratio of 354 — firmly in heavy cruiser territory. The generous 41% ballast ratio and low capsize screening factor of 1.7 give the Rafiki 35 excellent stability and motion comfort for ocean passages. Below decks, the Taiwanese teak joinery is a hallmark of the era''s quality. The Rafiki 35 earned a reputation as a no-nonsense offshore boat for experienced sailors who value seaworthiness over speed, and she remains popular among budget-minded bluewater cruisers looking for a sub-$50,000 entry into ocean sailing.
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What is the Rafiki 35's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Rafiki 35 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 12.96. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Rafiki 35's comfort ratio?
The Rafiki 35 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 35.76. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Rafiki 35 safe for offshore sailing?
The Rafiki 35 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.7. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Rafiki 35?
The theoretical hull speed of the Rafiki 35 is 7.03 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Rafiki 35 weigh?
The Rafiki 35 has a displacement of 16,500 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 34.67 ft.
Who designed the Rafiki 35?
The Rafiki 35 was designed by Stan Huntingford, first built in 1977.