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Considering a Bristol 35.5 vs a Bristol 35.5c . Are the sailing characteristics that different because of the cb. Any other advice about the boats, differences etc. Heard that the 35.5c is very tender. but fast in light air. Is that not true for the 35.5.
The centreboard is an added complication, so it is mainly worth having if you can take advantage of the shoal draft. I suggest choosing according to the depths in which you will be sailing.
Both boats though, compared to a modern Hunter et al, have a roundish hull with narrower beam. The result is less initial form stability, but the boat will stiffen up after heeling initially, and find its groove. This behaviour is actually more seaworthy than that of a modern boat with more form stability, as the Bristols will lose their righting moment at a higher angle.
Behaviour upwind is superb, when they track well and slice through chop like it isn't there. The downside is downwind performance, when a modern boat with flatter sections and beam carried further aft will behave better with a following sea. My 31.1 will tend to roll in a beam sea, and hobby horse in a following sea, when without sail up. Having the sails up stabilises her well.
Finally, they have a larger foretriangle / smaller main (even more so on my 31.1) so it is essential not to overpower them with foresails that are too large for the conditions.
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