Another Market Leader
By Chris Kourtakis
Following on the success of the C52, C37 and C43, the all-new Carver C34 could potentially crush the competition. The C34 doesn’t sacrifice comfort, living space, or seaworthiness with its’ unique design and layout.
Some of the unique features that you wouldn’t expect to find on a mid-sized express cruiser are 11’6” beam and 6’5” head room throughout. Being 6’2” there was no reason for me to duck trying to get in and out of anwhere. Another cool feature is that you can opt to have the entire lower level built into one big suite. No bulkheads, just a wide open owner’s suite. This standard layout is ideal for someone who is looking to downsize from a 40’ something into something smaller, without having to sacrifice the living space. You can option to include a bulkhead creating a private aft guest stateroom.
The standard layout provides functionality and comfort combined. The v-berth layout isn’t your traditional front to back configuration. The bed was at an angle from port to starboard giving you a larger bed and more storage space around the edges. The head is well lit and the gunnel windows are functional. The separate shower isn’t something that you would expect to find in a 34’ yacht, but not only services its purpose, but gives you ample room to do it.
What separates the Carver C34 from others in its class is the panoramic view from the expansive main deck, single level cockpit, salon and galley layout. There is no center pillar to block your forward view, providing a spectacular view no matter where you are sitting. The carbon fiber hard top is home to a glass sunroof that easily opens with the touch of a button. Aft there’s a fixed mounted moon roof with screen and sunshade. The salon opens from the aft through the large sliding glass door that seamlessly combines the outside and inside seating into one open area.
The single deck design allows everyone aboard to enjoy cocktail hour, alfresco dining or the ability to soak up some rays when the outside table is lowered providing sun seekers a large aft sun pad. The galley is simplistic, has all the amenities that you would need and is very easy to use.
Carver’s Infusion Technology combined with their CAD designed stringer system reinforces each and every compartment on the C34. What does this mean for you? Less weight, more strength and better performance at all speeds. With a dry weight of just over 17,000 lbs. and a pair of Mercuiser 6.2L HP I/O’s, the C34 gets up and goes with little hesitation. Her time to plane was just under 7 seconds and topped out at 41 mph at 5,300 rpms. You won’t want to run to long at WOT, as she will consume around 45 gph. At a cruising speed of 25 mph at 3,800 rpms, the C34 consumed a respectable 22.8 gph according to the Smart Craft gauges.
SPECS:
LOA (with Swim Platform): 34’ 0” / 10.36 m
Beam: 11’ 6” / 3.5 m
Weight (Standard Engines): 17,300 lbs. / 7,847kg
Draft (Full load, Sterndrive): 37” / .94 m
Fuel Capacity: 200 gal. / 909 L
Water Capacity: 78 gal. / 295 L
Holding Tank: 30 gal. / 113.6 L
Bridge Clearance: 10’ / 3.05 m
Sleeps: 6
MSRP: $335,715 USD
For More Information: Carver Yachts
www.carveryachts.com
Running across Lake St. Clair on a Monday afternoon, the C34 handled the 2 foot chop with little hesitation. The ride was smooth, dry and very quiet. This was very surprising considering the low profile of the design. The wrapping window design made every moment on the water visually safe, including around the docks.
The helm is simplistic, yet very well laid out with room for two large Ray Marine displays. The switches are easy to reach and provide stylish functionality. The captain’s chair is large; high backed and has nice fold down arms on either side. Joystick docking controls were to the immediate left of the wheel and placed perfectly for easy use in tight quarters.
Carver has yet again created a game changer and market leader. From performance to functionality the C34 has it all in one perfect package for a great day on the water or weekend trip across Lake Ontario. Whether you are looking to downsize or step up into a 30’ something yacht, the C34 will not only meet your needs, but exceed it.