STARLIGHT 35
PRICE £35,000-£50,000 YEAR 1990-1995
The Sadler Starlight 35 was launched shortly after her larger sister, the 39, and with all the same seaworthy features. The yacht was designed with a solid GRP hull and an inner furniture moulding, between which closedcell foam was injected to provide enough buoyancy to enable the boat to float even when flooded.
It also provided excellent insulation, virtually eliminating condensation and deadening the sound of the waves under way. On the water she’s a powerful thoroughbred and as close-winded as most modern 35ft production cruisers. Stephen Jones’ experience in designing racing yachts meant she was a superb performer, particularly with his renowned lead-ballasted wing keel. Mounted on a GRP stub, it helps keep her stiff, stable and on course.
Though she had a masthead sloop sail plan, her 110% genoa is easy to handle and having all sail controls leading aft greatly assists shorthanded sailing.
Being only a foot narrower than the 39 means the accommodation is spacious. The layout is traditional, yet practical, and getting around below decks when under sail is made easier by numerous well-placed handholds.
The saloon is bright and airy with good seating around a wellfiddled table. Headroom is 1.9m (6ft 3in) in the main cabin and there are numerous lockers, although the seat cavities contain the fuel tank and batteries. The forecabin is roomy and sports a large vee berth with sliding infill. There’s also a washbasin and hanging locker. The galley is well proportioned, as is the nav station opposite, which has a large, forward-facing chart table and seat. There’s a double aft cabin through the galley and access to the heads in the opposite quarter. The latter is fully lined and has ample room for showering. 50 35s were built between 1990 and 1994.