DEFENDER 35
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 35.27 ft |
| LWL | 29.1 ft |
| Beam | 10.76 ft |
| Draft | 5.51 ft |
| Displacement | 8,999 lb |
| Ballast | 4,199.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.2 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 42.32 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 14.27 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 37.4 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10.33 ft |
| FLforestay | 14.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 510.6 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 302 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 513.3 sq ft |
About the DEFENDER 35
Design as IOR 3/4 ton racer.
Designed by Eva M. Hollman and built by F Dekker & Son (NL) between 1978 and 1985, the Defender 35 is a rare vessel with only 9 hulls constructed. This limited production run creates a unique market position, requiring buyers to rely heavily on owner-reported data for condition assessment.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and short-range offshore sailors who prioritize a comfortable, stable platform with a high comfort ratio of 18.98. Its moderate displacement and fin keel design make it well-suited for those seeking a balance between performance and livability without the complexity of heavy bluewater rigs.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 8999.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.07, the Defender 35 offers moderate offshore stability, though its limited build count and reported structural issues suggest it is better suited for protected waters than extreme bluewater passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other Dutch-built cruisers from the late 1970s and early 1980s with similar displacement and beam characteristics, such as the Hallberg-Rassy 35 or Beneteau 36. These vessels share similar era-specific construction techniques and maintenance profiles, particularly regarding deck core integrity and engine bay layouts.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DEFENDER 35 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 35.27ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 7 systems for the DEFENDER 35, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DEFENDER 35? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your DEFENDER 35?
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Used sails that fit the DEFENDER 35
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…