Nothing has changed in terms of shape: a generous width, but still a sporty day cruiser. The proportions of the Bavaria 35 Sport are still just right, especially as the large window fronts now make the waist appear narrower. In terms of the overall workmanship and the technical and electrical installations, we can once again attest to an improvement in all areas. However, the water alarm sensors on the fuel pre-filters and the (absolutely essential) ladder with platform leading into the engine compartment still have to be ticked off the list of accessories.
Driving and manoeuvring
Thanks to the joystick (extra) installed on our test boat, manoeuvres in any direction at slow speed are child's play. Otherwise, the boat requires no more than three boat lengths when both gear levers are in the "out" position. At slow speeds (1100 rpm), it is advisable not to exceed 7 knots so that the waves generated by the boat remain acceptable. The transition from displacement to planing speed is associated with a brief visual disturbance because the foreship and horizon form a line. At around 2000 rpm (13 knots), the test boat begins to planing, with the sterndrives fully trimmed and the trim tabs in the neutral position. The same conditions also apply to the lowest glide speed. We determine the most economical planing speed at a speed of 25 knots when both engines are turning 2500 rpm. At full speed, both engines turn 90 rpm less than the manufacturer allows, which indicates that the propellers are too steep. The maximum speed logged on the GPS is 38 knots.
A full fuel tank (520 litres) is sufficient for a theoretical range of around 290 nm at slow speed plus 15% reserve. At fast, economical gliding speeds, the non-stop distance is calculated at almost 175 nm and at full throttle at around 146 nm until the reserve is utilised. This is suitable at all speeds and means a "good". In the tighter bends, the Sport 35 slows down to the lowest glide speed on its own and picks up speed again after steering out. The 180° turns are almost three boat lengths long and are completed without rocking or hooking. On the slalom course, the test boat is made to swing safely along its longitudinal axis. The joystick aquamatic influences the steering angles of the drives; on the test boat, it takes almost a second between actuating the rudder and the drives reacting, which prevents extreme manoeuvres. Nothing objective can be said about the behaviour of the test boat in rough water, as the Mediterranean off Palma was calm. However, we know from the predecessor Sport 34 that rough water sailing is safe and reasonably comfortable.
The driver sits (now) elevated and, as before, safely on a longitudinally adjustable bucket seat, the seat surface of which can be partially folded up for driving while standing. In front of him is a clearly laid out dashboard that contains everything we need for navigation. Everything is in view and within easy reach, only the reflections in the windscreen are distracting. A windscreen wiper is standard, but no windscreen washer or defroster nozzles. The front passenger also sits higher and uses the grab handle on the companionway to the cab. Bavaria has done its homework when it comes to noise insulation: Even at full throttle, the sound pressure in the cockpit does not exceed 83 dB/A. That's good.
Engine, tank, electrics
At the touch of a button, the engine compartment lid, which doubles as a stowage tray and stern sunbed, folds up to reveal the engine compartment, where you can see two easily accessible diesels. The fuel tank is located in front of the bulkhead to the aft cabin; the batteries are located in a ventilated box. The associated main switches are remotely controlled by relays at the helm station, and the fuses are located either at the helm station or on the port side above the berths in the aft cabin. Solenoid valves switched via the ignition regulate the fuel flow.
Security
A few small details have been effectively changed compared to the Sport 34, but the high safety standard - wide side decks, stable railing, electric and manual bilge pumps plus automatic fire extinguishing system - and the good handling characteristics have been retained. What is missing is a grab handle on the cockpit bar. The teak flooring in the cockpit and on the side decks and bathing platform prevents slipping.
Living and cockpit
Nothing has changed in terms of dimensions compared to the 34, and consequently the floor plan, rooms and storage spaces have not changed either. What has increased is the overall finishing touches and cosiness. The separate bow cabin with V-berth remains, as do the galley and dinette in the saloon, where there is plenty of room for four people. The edges of the furniture are now more rounded, handle mouldings provide a good grip on the furniture and the upholstery has become thicker and more comfortable. The large side windows in the saloon are a highlight. The bathroom with shower and toilet remain unchanged, as does the aft cabin with bench seat. The optimised wardrobe is new. The positive impression of space, the storage space under the berths, the fact that light and air enter through portholes or skylights, the different standing heights and the space for tall people in the entrance area have remained. The fact that the upholstery on the berths and seating is ventilated is standard, as are the sturdy handrails on both sides on the way from the saloon to the cockpit. The equipment carrier is still enthroned above the cockpit with cockpit galley and U-shaped seating and table. As before, the aft sunbed can be enlarged using the folding backrest of the seating area. New: not only has the cover of the stern sunbed been made lighter, it is now easier to sit on the cushion and has good support next to you. You can access the boat either by climbing over the railing onto the side decks or from aft, from the bathing platform, through the stern entrance on the starboard side. Access to both side decks is secured with handholds. Part of the U-shaped bench seat or the large tub under the sun lounger can be used as storage space for equipment.
Equipment
The price policy determines the standard equipment package, but you can get by with it. This includes certified navigation lights as well as LED lights below deck. There is just as little to criticise about the mooring cleats as the self-draining anchor locker with bow fitting. Electric winch, chain and anchor cost extra. Analogue compass and depth sounder are standard, but the canopy and tarpaulin are not.
The shipyard says
A perfect appearance is guaranteed with the Sport 35. Families will also feel right at home here. This is ensured by the well thought-out room concept and the high safety standards. Below deck there is a bright, friendly ambience - the wide hull windows allow plenty of light into the interior. Generous storage space and many intelligent details make every stay on board an unforgettable experience.
We say
The Sport 35 is a consistent further development of the Sport 34, even if only in the details. But these are more than successful. In terms of quality, the shipyard has taken another step forward, which increases the overall value. We repeat what is also true here: the best Bavaria to date.
Standard equipment
Adjustable steering wheel, stainless steel bow fitting with anchor roller, GRP gear rack, anchor locker, 6 stainless steel cleats, teak on bathing platform with telescopic bathing ladder, stern shower, cockpit bar with washbasin, starboard windscreen wiper, analogue compass, cockpit table, two single berths convertible into double bed, V-berth in bow cabin, galley with ceramic hobwindscreen wiper, analogue compass, Bidata-Sumlog echo sounder, cockpit table, two single berths convertible into double bed, V-shaped double bed in forward cabin, galley with ceramic hob, 12 V refrigerator 80 L and stainless steel sink, CE fire extinguishing system, 2 fire extinguishers and fire blanket, certified navigation lights, electric pressurised water pump, pump toilet with holding tank, electric engine compartment opening, manual bilge pump, electric bilge pump, 230 V shore power connection, 2 starter batteries and 1 consumer battery, engine instrumentation with consumption display.
Data sheet: Bavaria Sport 35
Shipyard: Bavaria GmbH
Type designation: Bavaria Sport 35
CE category: B - Outside coastal waters
Material of hull and deck: Plastic
Length: 10,80 m
Width: 3,59 m
Displacement: 6,20 t
Price: 205.632,00 €
