B I G C AT S

The Bertram 35 sports 500 hp Caterpillar C7.1 diesels with ZF drives. With a 20,800-pound displacement, my test vessel hit a top speed just over 36 knots in 2-footers. The 35’s solid fiberglass bottom and cored hull sides with Kevlarreinforced keel and strakes make for a relatively lightweight yet strong bluewater vessel. custom look, while the standard outfitting feels more contemporary. Engine-box cushions create sun-pad and lounge areas.

Up top, the flybridge is uncluttered. The optional wooden helm pod with Palm Beach controls is a nice touch to the raised console that houses multifunction displays and the Caterpillar engines’ 7-inch display. Ancillary systems such as switches, a VHF radio, thruster controls and more are in a recessed helm box to starboard. A cooler box is to port. Three Pompanette helm chairs keep the captain and spotters together. The options list includes interior colors and materials, thrusters, a Seakeeper gyro, electronics, fishing gear and tower/hardtop choices.

The spirit of Bertram lives on in the 35. Although she’s a new design, being on board feels like cruising with a legend.