1978 Rafiki 35 Boat in Everett, WA 98201 US
Built in 1978
35
1 Engine (Yanmar)
35 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
FOR SALE: 1978 Rafiki 35 - A Legendary Blue-Water Cruiser Ready for Your Next Chapter
Turn heads in every harbor with this classic, heavily built offshore cruiser. Designed by the esteemed Stan Huntingford and masterfully crafted at the renowned Lien Hwa shipyard, the Rafiki 35 is a rare breed of traditional elegance, robust construction, and serious blue-water capability. With her distinctive double-ended hull, proud lines, and warm, rich teak interior, she is as beautiful as she is sea-kindly.
Why the Rafiki 35 Stands Out:
Built for the Open Ocean: Features a thick, solid fiberglass hull with a cutaway full keel and protected rudder, offering an incredibly smooth, forgiving, and safe ride in heavy seas.
The Warmth of a Custom Yacht: Step below deck to find an expansive, solid teak interior that modern production boats simply cannot replicate. Offers excellent headroom, a proper sea galley, a dedicated navigation station, and comfortable berths for extended voyaging.
Versatile Cutter Rig: Highly adaptable sail plan designed to easily balance the boat in all wind conditions, making short-handed or solo cruising a breeze.
Specifications & Key Details:
Year: 1978
Length Overall (LOA): 34.67 ft
Beam: 10.83 ft | Draft: 4.50 ft (Perfect for exploring shallow anchorages without sacrificing offshore stability)
Displacement: 16,500 lbs (Heavy displacement cruiser)
Ballast: 6,800 lbs
Auxiliary Power: Equipped with dependable diesel power to get you home when the wind drops.
Whether you are dreaming of a classic liveaboard lifestyle, weekend coastal exploration, or setting sail for the South Pacific, this Rafiki 35 is a proven, capable partner that will keep you safe and comfortable wherever the wind takes you.
Don't miss the chance to own a true sailor's yacht with timeless pedigree. Contact us today to schedule a private viewing.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 10/15/26 | Initial price | $25,000 |
Overview from around the web 1978 Rafiki 35
The 1978 Rafiki 35 has garnered a positive reputation among boating enthusiasts and owners alike
Many customers appreciate its solid build quality, which reflects the craftsmanship typical of the era in which it was constructed. The long-keel design offers excellent stability in various sea conditions, making it a reliable choice for both coastal cruising and offshore adventures. Users often highlight the boat's spacious interior layout, which maximizes comfort while accommodating the needs of families or cruising couples. The galley is functional and efficient, with ample storage and workspace, while the sleeping quarters are cozy, allowing for restful nights onboard. Owners have also pointed out the Rafiki 35's performance under sail. With a balanced rig and well-designed hull, this vessel handles well in a variety of wind conditions, providing a rewarding sailing experience. Many appreciate the ease of maintenance due to the accessible engine compartment and the straightforward systems onboard. Overall, customers find that the 1978 Rafiki 35 delivers a charming blend of classic aesthetics and practical functionality, making it a beloved choice among those looking for a dependable sailing vessel.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Rafiki 35, launched in 1978, is a well-regarded cruising sailboat known for its sturdy design and comfortable sailing experience. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:
Pros
Solid Construction: The Rafiki 35 features a heavy displacement hull, offering excellent stability and durability, making it suitable for offshore cruising.
Comfortable Interior: Designed with comfort in mind, the cabin layout provides ample living space with a functional galley, spacious salon, and private berths, perfect for extended voyages.
Sailing Performance: With a balanced sail plan and a good keel design, the Rafiki 35 is praised for its ability to sail well in various wind conditions, making it an enjoyable vessel for both novice and experienced sailors.
Value for Money: Typically priced competitively within the used sailboat market, the Rafiki 35 offers a lot of boat for the money, attracting cruisers looking for a reliable vessel without breaking the bank.
Strong Community and Support: Owners of Rafiki vessels often form a supportive community, making it easier to find information, parts, and advice for maintenance and upgrades.
Cons
Age and Maintenance: As a 1978 model, some Rafiki 35s may require considerable maintenance and updates to systems, which can be a drawback for potential buyers concerned about the upkeep of an older vessel.
Limited Performance Against the Wind: While the Rafiki 35 performs well in many conditions, some sailors report it may not point as high to the wind as newer designs, potentially affecting its tacking ability.
Heavy Displacement: While this contributes to stability, the heavy weight can also mean slower speeds and a little more effort needed for maneuverability, especially in lighter winds.
Outdated Features: Depending on the specific boat and previous ownership, some features may be dated and lack modern conveniences or technology that newer models offer.
Space Constraints: While the interior is comfortable, some may find the headroom and overall space constraints to be less accommodating compared to larger, more modern cruising yachts.
Made For
The 1978 Rafiki 35 is an excellent choice for a variety of sailors, whether you’re a seasoned mariner or a newcomer to the sailing world. This robust and well-designed vessel appeals to those who appreciate classic craftsmanship and a seaworthy performance. 1. Cruisers: With comfortable accommodations and a spacious cockpit, the Rafiki 35 is perfect for those looking to embark on long-distance cruising adventures. Its strong hull and reliable design make it suitable for offshore sailing. 2. Families: The spacious layout and thoughtful design make this boat ideal for family outings. Ample sleeping arrangements allow for comfortable trips with loved ones, while storage space ensures all gear and supplies can be accommodated. 3. Weekend Warriors: For sailors who enjoy weekend getaways or day sailing, the manageable size and ease of handling make the Rafiki 35 a practical option. Its forgiving nature under sail allows for relaxed outings on the water. 4. Adventure Seekers: Those looking to explore coastal waters or remote islands will find the Rafiki 35 equipped for adventure, offering a good balance of performance and stability. 5. Restoration Enthusiasts: Given its age and classic design, the Rafiki 35 attracts those interested in boat restoration. It offers the opportunity to work on a timeless yacht, bringing it back to its former glory. In summary, the 1978 Rafiki 35 caters to a diverse range of sailors, from adventurous cruisers to families and restoration aficionados, making it a versatile choice for anyone seeking a reliable and stylish sailing experience.
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Boats For Sale in Washington, United States Similar to the 1978 Rafiki 35
Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.
 1978 Rafiki 35 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $25,000 | $29,500 | $15,000 | $15,000 | $42,000 | $49,900 |
| Location | Everett | Seattle | Everett | Port Townsend | Poulsbo | Seattle |
| Nominal Length | 35' | 32' | 33' | 35' | 36' | 39' |
| Beam | 11' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Draft | 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Yanmar | - | - | Perkins | Yanmar | Pisces |
| Total Engine Power | 30 hp | - | - | - | 35 hp | 40 hp |
| Days on Market | 0 | 478 | 436 | 108 | 22 | 701 |
| Get in touch |
Meet the Broker
Address
Want to update the details or images for this boat? Claim this listing by getting in touch.
Boat Location
Contact Everett Yachts about 1978 Rafiki 35
1728 West Marine View Drive, Suite 222, Everett, WA, 98201
Login with Google