1988 Silverton 34 Convertible

By: Mike Burns

The origins of Four Winns date back to 1962, when the company – then called Safe-T- Mate Boat Company – manufactured a series of small fibreglass runabouts. In 1975, Bill Winn and his three sons (hence the name “Four Winns”) purchased the Safe-TMate line and resumed production under the Four Winns banner.

Silverton can trace its roots back to depression-era New York City, where Henry Luhrs began a boat building company. By the 1960s, Luhrs was building over 1,000 boats a year, which is quite a significant feat for the time.

In 1969, Luhrs’ sons purchased a small New Jersey manufacturer called Silverton Sea Skiff. They renamed the operation Silverton Marine and the company steadily grew in the 1970s. In 1978, the company introduced the Silverton 34 Convertible, which turned out to be their all-time best-selling model. This version of the 34 Convertible had a 10-year production run – we’re going to check out a 1988 model.

When boarding from the back aft, the first thing I noticed on our test boat was the transom door. Originally, these models were not fitted with one, so someone at some point has added one. Although I do question the design of it somewhat, it is functional and does provide easy access to the cockpit.

The cockpit itself is quite spacious with over 70 square feet of space and large compartments in the cockpit sole allow for easy storage for larger items, such as spare lines and fenders. Another handy feature is the removable steps that can be mounted to either port or starboard for easy access to the dock or side decks.

Access to the bridge is via a ladder to port. Although somewhat steep, this ladder configuration is very common for a boat of this vintage. The bridge itself is laid out with the helm mounted amidships with the gauges and controls neatly laid out in a compact dash. The operator, as well as TWO passengers, can enjoy the comfort of individual swivel seats. Additional seating is found on a small bench aft and to starboard.

A large sliding glass door from the cockpit leads to the main salon. While not expansive, there is enough room for a sofa bed to port and, if you desired, some modular furniture could also be added. Large windows surround the cabin, which allows in an abundance of light and offers good cross ventilation. The light oak wood interior enhances the light and airy feel of the cabin. For those days when it is too warm or too cold, our test boat also featured reverse cycle heat and air conditioning.

A set of steps leads down to the galley area, where you’ll find a compact, yet functional working space. Several recent upgrades have been done to our test boat, including new countertops, new under counter fridge, and new ceramic cook top. A microwave is conveniently mounted in a cabinet above the counter, and plenty of storage is found in ample cabinets and drawers both above and below the counter.

Adjacent to the galley, you’ll find a dinette that can accommodate four adults.

Again, more upgrades can be found with the refinished table to match the galley counters, as well as updated upholstery. Additional storage space is found under the bench seats. This area can also be converted to a compact double berth, but it would be more suitable for kids – or adult guests who you may be encouraging to leave the boat!

Off to port, the head is fitted with the usual amenities you’d expect to find with the exception of the separate shower stall. Many boats in this size range and of this vintage would have a combination head/shower stall. However, Silverton’s engineers made good use of the space available to add this feature.

Up forward, the master stateroom features a good-sized berth with plenty of headroom. Ample storage is found in a variety of compartments and, again, the light finish of the oak interior is a welcome touch.

A variety of power plants powered the 34 Convertible over the years, including V-drive configuration that powered the earlier models. Our test model however was fitted with the most common engine package, a pair of direct drive 350 ci Crusaders. These units produced 270 hp each – which, in my opinion, is very adequate power for this model. In fact, our sea trial seemed to confirm this.

Running with a 3⁄4-full fuel tank, I pushed the throttles forward and we registered a quick hole shot of 3.6 seconds; very respectable for a boat of this size (and weight). At 3400 rpm, we cruised along effortlessly in a good chop at 22.8 mph. Unfortunately the wave action did not allow us to achieve a top end reading for our speed run, but this boat would top out at just over 30 mph.

One thing I particularly like about this model is its sea-keeping characteristics. With a significant flare of the bow and a moderate (for its size) dead rise of 15 degrees, this model can handle a good-sized chop. Another interesting thing about this model is the lack of trim tabs – and they weren’t even offered as an option. For the conditions that I’ve put this model through, they haven’t been missed at all. Another thing I like about this model is its close quarter handling characteristics. Prop thrust is significant, which makes for nimble handling when docking.

I can see why Silverton has such success with the 34 Convertible. It is a great running boat with good sea-keeping characteristics. On top of that, it has a bright and airy interior with a comfortable layout. Some people may prefer to have a second stateroom, but having only one stateroom does have its advantages, especially if a quiet weekend on board is in order.

POWER / PERFORMANCE
TEST BOAT ENGINE: Twin 350 ci Crusaders,
270 hp, V8 direct drive gas
engines
TOP SPEED: Not available (due to
water conditions)
CRUISING SPEED (rpm/mph): 2400 /
12.1 ; 2800 / 17.4 ; 3900 / 22.8
PLANING SPEED: 3.6 seconds