EXPRESS 34
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 34 ft |
| LWL | 28.33 ft |
| Beam | 10.5 ft |
| Draft | 6 ft |
| Displacement | 8,500 lb |
| Ballast | 3,700.1 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.1 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 44.3 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 13 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 38.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 12.8 ft |
| FLforestay | 13 ft |
| Mainsail | 554.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 288 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 489.5 sq ft |
About the EXPRESS 34
Thanks to Greg Sutherland, owner of hull #1 for providing updated information. According to him, at least 28 were built.
Designed by Carl Schumacher and built by Alsberg Brothers Boatworks (USA) from 1986–1988, the Express 34 is a rare vessel with only 28 hulls produced. This limited production run creates a specialized market where condition varies significantly, requiring buyers to scrutinize structural integrity over cosmetic appeal.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and short-range offshore sailors who prioritize performance and comfort, provided they are prepared for significant structural maintenance. It is less ideal for novice owners due to the critical nature of common age-related defects.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 8500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.06, the boat offers moderate offshore stability, but its bluewater readiness is severely compromised by widespread reports of deck core moisture and keel sump cracking.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 34 and O'Day 36, which share similar beam and displacement characteristics from the same era. However, the Express 34's specific Schumacher design and extremely low build count make it distinct from these more common contemporaries.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(2 certificates)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 4.0 | 5.4 | 6.3 | 6.7 | 6.9 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| 60° | 4.3 | 5.7 | 6.5 | 6.9 | 7.1 | 7.2 | 7.2 | 7.3 | 7.3 |
| 75° | 4.5 | 5.8 | 6.6 | 7.0 | 7.2 | 7.4 | 7.5 | 7.6 | 7.7 |
| 90° | 4.3 | 5.7 | 6.5 | 7.0 | 7.3 | 7.5 | 7.7 | 8.0 | 8.1 |
| 110° | 4.2 | 5.7 | 6.7 | 7.3 | 7.6 | 7.9 | 8.1 | 8.5 | 8.9 |
| 120° | 4.1 | 5.6 | 6.6 | 7.2 | 7.6 | 8.0 | 8.4 | 9.0 | 9.9 |
| 135° | 3.5 | 5.0 | 6.1 | 6.9 | 7.3 | 7.8 | 8.2 | 9.4 | 11.9 |
| 150° | 2.9 | 4.2 | 5.3 | 6.2 | 6.9 | 7.2 | 7.6 | 8.3 | 10.3 |
| Beat VMG | 2.6 | 3.5 | 4.3 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.9 |
| Run VMG | 2.5 | 3.6 | 4.6 | 5.4 | 6.0 | 6.4 | 6.7 | 7.3 | 8.9 |
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the EXPRESS 34 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 34ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
22 reported issues across 10 systems for the EXPRESS 34, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a EXPRESS 34? 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 22 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 EXPRESS 34?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Volvo Penta, Universal — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the EXPRESS 34
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…