Freedom 35 purchase

[[176172]]

After a long time sailing conventional rig I am now considering buying a Freedom 35 unstayed rig.

Anyone who has owned or sailed one or knows anything about them, I would appreciate your advice and guidance.

Thank you

 

[PaulR]

we owned freedom 35 (centerboard - carbon masts- wraparound sails) as family cruiser - happy to chat about it- loved her - were very happy with performance/space and layout inside/flexibility including drying out on legs-ease of handling- loved the individuality- 2 possible negatives depending what you are used to - manouvering in close quarters under engine needed thinking about especially if windy and weight in helm high in any reasonable breeze

 

[awol]

I borrowed Spain and Portugal charts from a Freedom 35 that had sailed south to the mediterranean for my trip north from Lagos. Totally depressing to see his track notching up 6/7+ kts while I was lucky to be making 3.5kts. Off wind they are a joy with the same boat winning overall at WHYW passage races in 2015 and 2017 against over 100 other boats (ain't handicap racing great?).

 

[[176172]]

we owned freedom 35 (centerboard - carbon masts- wraparound sails) as family cruiser - happy to chat about it- loved her - were very happy with performance/space and layout inside/flexibility including drying out on legs-ease of handling- loved the individuality- 2 possible negatives depending what you are used to - manouvering in close quarters under engine needed thinking about especially if windy and weight in helm high in any reasonable breeze

I should know by the end of this month if I will be the owner, I will attach a link for you to see her.
From the photos the space looks what I am looking for, in need of some TLC which is something I have always enjoyed (possibly anti-fouling excepted) Plenty of time before next year to get her as I would wish.

I had a Nicholson 38 ketch for 25 years, manoeuvring particularly in reverse always an adventure, but other boats I have sailed also can be difficult if the wind not taken into account at close quarters. Rushing is usually fatal, slowly always does it. She doesn't appear to have more than usual freeboard, but please do further pass on your experience with the model, which will be most appreciated.
Regards
Mike

 

[[176172]]

I borrowed Spain and Portugal charts from a Freedom 35 that had sailed south to the mediterranean for my trip north from Lagos. Totally depressing to see his track notching up 6/7+ kts while I was lucky to be making 3.5kts. Off wind they are a joy with the same boat winning overall at WHYW passage races in 2015 and 2017 against over 100 other boats (ain't handicap racing great?).

I have read of similar comparisons, I do so hope mine will prove to be the same, especially in light airs as often happens in the Med.
Mike

 

[[176172]]

Hi Paul,
I have sent the link in a private message.

Mike

 

[dgadee]

I was thinking of one a few years ago. Price of new sails made me think again (really, 4 main sails). Was not sure about assessing carbon mast. One owner I met said his boat was practically unsaleable. Nice idea but dark inside and cockpit too small. But everyone to their own.

Don't want to be negative but those were my thoughts.

 

[[176172]]

Hi Paul, Not sure if my message got to you about my being away until tomorrow will call you then.
What timeframe suit you best on Monday
Speak soon
Mike