Feedback from owners, most of them experienced cruisers, and careful study of the predecessor Swift Trawler 34’s (few) warranty claims indicated that a refresh was in order. Thus, the new Swift Trawler 35. It offers valuable refinements and new features, from major — a stronger Dometic air-conditioning system, stashed beneath the galley — to small but convenient — fuel and waste deck-plate access side-by-side, handy to the pilothouse side door. The galley includes more freezer capacity and a neat little work surface that converts to a cushioned seat opposite the double helm seat. The head now provides a comfortably sized separate shower stall — the commode is in there too, under a teak seat. The entire dashboard is set into a hinged panel that swings back for easy access to electronics and controls. A larger Onan 7.5 kW genset keeps the battery banks charged.
The most obvious change is the ST 35’s two-panel transom door that opens the cockpit wide to the swim platform, creating an attractive outdoor space at anchor, with a retractable awning above. The salon’s table is just heavy enough to keep it planted but light enough to move it easily to the cockpit for morning coffee or an evening sundowner. Cushioned jump seats complement folding cockpit chairs. To complement the transom doors, Beneteau’s engineers spec’d a pair of telescoping dinghy davits that can hold up to 400 pounds (say, a 10-foot RIB with a 9.9 hp outboard), with easy boarding from the swim platform. That feature opens considerable space aft on the flybridge (paddleboards? kayaks?) where the dinghy used to ride. The ST 35 also sports contemporary styling touches, such as a pair of large side windows with vent portlights for the master cabin.
Mechanically, the ST 35 is similar to its predecessor, with a well-proven 425 hp Cummins QSB6.7 inboard diesel swinging a large five-blade propeller through a 2.5-to-1 reduction for efficient running at both trawler speeds and semi-planing high cruises. With all that blade surface, a large rudder and a bow thruster, maneuverability in tight spaces is a snap.
High Points
- Proven model improved by customer feedback, with features like increased air conditioning, refrigeration and genset capacity.
- Cockpit opens level with the swim platform for entertaining and easy dinghy launching from the telescoping transom brackets.
- Lazarette has nonskid plating over the genset and a step to keep you from stepping where you shouldn’t.
Low Points
- Slightly heavier, so slightly slower than the previous model.
- With the foldout lounge for guest accommodations, consider converting the guest cabin into a compact office.
Toughest Competitor
The American Tug 365 ($465,500) is roughly comparable in size and power (36 feet 6 inches and 18,700 pounds, with a 380 hp Cummins QSB). It too has a semidisplacement hull.
Price: $393,100 (with test power)
Available Power: Inboard
How We Tested
Engine: 425 hp Cummins QSB 6.7 diesel inboard
Prop: 24″ x 24″ 5-blade bronze
Gear Ratio: 2.5:1 ZF
Fuel Load: 211 gal.
Water Load: 0 gal.
Waste Load: 0 gal.
Crew Weight: 360 lb.
More Information
Beneteau Powerboats – Annapolis, Maryland; beneteau.com
