Elan Impression 35

Elan Impression 35

Looking for an entry-level cruiser? There are plenty available, so ST finds out what separates the Elan-built Impression 35 from the crowd.

It is evident in this boat's distinctive looks and finish as well as little considerate touches here and there that she has a good dash of character.

The biggest factor, however, is the sheer volume of this little boat. The 35 is basically a reconfigured version of the old 344, first launched in 2007, and until last September was known as the Elan Impression 354. The hull is unchanged, but her deck layout has been tweaked: twin wheels replace the single pedestal, while the cockpit has been enlarged and her transom opened out in the modern style, to reveal great expanses of teak deck.

The overall feeling stepping into this cockpit is that you are on a much bigger boat.

• Impression 35 - an update to the Elan Impression 344

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  The hull is unchanged but her deck layout has been tweaked: twin wheels replace the single pedestal, while the cockpit has been enlarged and her transom opened out in the modern style to reveal great expanses of teak deck. All photos: Matic Klemenc

• A big impression

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  The highly-curved cabin top of the Impression is more harmonious than most and on the 35 adds to the feeling that the yacht is bigger than she is.

• Feeling of space

  http://sailingtoday.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/slideshow-gallery/Impression-35-cockpit.jpg

  The overall feeling stepping into this cockpit is that you are on a much bigger boat. there's ample room to seat six around the (added optional) table.

• IKEA-type styling below

  http://sailingtoday.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/slideshow-gallery/Elan-35-saloon.jpg

  The saloon feels like it belongs to a much larger yacht. The marketing men at Elan claim that this is the smallest production yacht capable of sleeping nine people in comfort.

• A Slovenian creation

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  The Impression 35 is built in the Slovenian Alps - but on water she responded well, even in light winds, pointed to 38 degrees off the apparent wind and the steering was light

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ST's verdict:

If you're after an entry-level cruising yacht, easily handled and comfortable, then the Impression 35 is well up to the mark. Having said that, all of Impression's main competitors in this class could claim likewise. So why would you choose an Impression? The Slovenian yacht has a touch of individuality about them that many of their rivals lack, both in looks, layout and ideas. The quality of build and finish is very good.

Of course, the 35's biggest asset is that roomy hull, so if space is a priority, then this little boat must be the class leader. This also makes you feel reassuringly safe and secure. The trade-off for this is what I feel are slightly dumpy looks, and side decks that are just a little bit too narrow.

These are, however, minor complaints. The general feel is of a well-thought-out all-rounder that will be a forgiving and friendly companion for cruising yachtsmen and women, particularly those with a couple of children in tow.

Performance: 3/5

Comfort: 5/5

Bluewater: 3/5

impressionyachts.com

Price: From £69,000 ex-VAT

Insure this boat from £293.50

This is an edited version of the ST boat test May (issue 217)

Elan Impression 35

Source: https://www.sailingtoday.co.uk/boats/big-boat-review/impression-35-tested/

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