Why the Cabo 35 Express Is a Standout Sportfishing Yacht for Orange Beach and Ono Island
By Meredith Amon | Gulf Coast Real Estate Advisor – Licensed in Alabama & Florida
Living on Ono Island and spending countless hours on the water here in Orange Beach, I’ve come to appreciate the boats that strike the perfect balance between performance, function, and beauty. One vessel that consistently turns heads—and delivers on every front—is the Cabo 35 Express. Whether you’re chasing marlin in the Gulf or cruising over to Robinson Island, this sportfishing yacht is a true standout.
What Makes the Cabo 35 Perfect for the Gulf Coast
The Cabo 35 Express was built with both offshore performance and coastal comfort in mind. At 37'6" overall with a 13' beam and a draft of just 3 feet, it’s incredibly versatile—capable of slicing through deep water offshore but also nimble enough to navigate the back bays and channels around Ono Island.
It comfortably sleeps four, features a full galley, enclosed head with shower, and a climate-controlled interior that’s ideal for weekend stays or hosting guests dockside.
Performance and Fishing Capabilities
As a sportfishing platform, the Cabo 35 is a serious contender. Here’s what stands out:
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Twin diesel engines (commonly 435–540 HP each)
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Cruising speed around 27 knots
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Top speed up to 35 knots
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400-gallon fuel capacity for extended trips
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Massive cockpit with 100+ sq ft of fishing space
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Livewell and two large fish boxes
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Integrated tackle prep station and rod storage for 15–17 rods
You’ll see boats like this pulling into Zeke’s Landing, Perdido Pass, and into tournament weigh-ins—it’s that respected in the offshore scene.
Ideal for Both Fishing and Leisure
Here’s why I recommend the Cabo 35 for Orange Beach buyers:
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Robinson Island Ready: The shallow 3-foot draft means you can anchor near sandbars and explore the islands with ease.
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Ono Island Lifestyle: With deep water access and protected canals, a Cabo 35 fits comfortably in most slips on Ono—especially on big-water streets like Shoalwater and Ono Boulevard.
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Entertaining: The cabin is finished with hardwood, leather, and full galley equipment—perfect for hosting after a long day on the water.
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Durability: Cabo’s legendary construction holds up well in saltwater environments, making it a smart long-term choice.
Comparable Boats and Pricing
If you’re shopping for something similar to the Cabo 35, here are a few worthy alternatives:
| Model | Length | Used Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabo 35 Express | 37.5 ft | $225,000 – $400,000 | Offshore-ready with premium interior |
| Viking 38 Open | 38 ft | $400,000 – $600,000 | A bit larger with similar power and layout |
| Pursuit OS 355 | 37 ft | $350,000 – $575,000 | Known for comfort and family cruising |
| Tiara 3600 Open | 36 ft | $250,000 – $475,000 | Solid cruiser-fisher hybrid, stylish interior |
Boat Slip Sizing and Maintenance Costs
If you’re planning to dock at your home or a local marina, you’ll need:
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A 40-foot slip minimum
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13.5-foot beam clearance
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Minimum 3.5–4 feet of water depth at low tide
Annual Maintenance Costs:
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Fuel (moderate use) | $12,000–$15,000 |
| Engine servicing (yearly) | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Bottom cleaning/paint | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Dockage & Insurance | $8,000–$12,000 |
Maintenance will vary based on engine hours, salt exposure, and how often the boat is lifted or dry-stored.
Final Thoughts from Meredith Amon
The Cabo 35 Express checks every box for coastal boaters—speed, comfort, style, and capability. It’s equally at home running 60 miles offshore as it is tied up behind a canal-front home on Ono Island. If you’re considering upgrading your boating experience or relocating to a waterfront property with room for a sportfisher, let’s talk. I’d love to help you find the right fit—on land and water.
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