We Say: Living space aboard a 35-foot express like Sessa’s C35 is most often a compromise. If you want privacy, you opt for a boat with two staterooms separated by a bulky doorlike hatch forward that swings into the wrong space at the worst time. Those who like a more open layout wind up with a boat that sleeps a second couple on a no-privacy pullout settee.
I discovered a smart solution aboard the C35, an idea that’s so simple you just shake your head. It’s a sliding pocket door that separates the midcabin (with a nice athwartship queen berth) and the forward convertible lounge area. Each has convenient access to the well-equipped galley and head.
In the cockpit, you’ll love the double-wide chaise adjacent to the helm. On the water, the C35 proved smart too, besting 42 mph at 3,550 rpm powered by twin 260 hp Volvo Penta diesel sterndrives. Sometimes visibility can be challenging in an express-style boat, but I found clear sight lines from my test boat’s helm.
Like the salon’s, I deemed the C35 cockpit’s layout thoughtful and found the boat’s engine compartment serviceable. The Sessa C35 is one boat chock full of good ideas.
Who’d Want One: A cruising couple or small family seeking private, ergonomic belowdecks accommodations.
Another Choice: Regal’s 35 Sport Coupe ($320,724, with twin 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 Duoprop sterndrives).
Bottom Line: $340,000 with test power; sessamarine.com
