J-121: A RACING 12-METRE BOAT FOR A SMALL CREW

What’ s the first problem if you want to enjoy regattas but you aren’t an expert? Crew, of course. Not only because it’s difficult to find a skilled one but also because it’s really difficult to find “arms” and people who manages to stay at sea. Therefore, J Boats has just unveiled the first pictures and technical details of its new 12-metre-boat, designed for crew made up of just 5 people. The first aim is easy handling, in addition to high performances.

To solve the stability matter with so few people aboard, Alan Johnstone adopted some ballasts, for 400 litres in total: a real revolution for the American yard. This solution is the same as having four “big boys” aboard.

Always from the perspective of an easy handling and easy manoeuvres, the boat will be provided with fore roller sails (jib, fore stay sail, Code O and two Top Down A-Sails are available, too), a totally free cockpit  and a double rudder blade. Basic layout is the traditional successful one of J 111.

Mast, boom and bowsprit are made of carbon, while hull and deck are vacuum-sealed using infusion technology. The boat will be equipped with electric main and extra winches and jibs which can be regulated by carriages and barbers. Unfortunately, displacement, sailing area and price are still unknown. The primary aim is to create a new affordable monotype  class designed for low management costs and no-professional crews.

Lines are very thin and volumes are not too generous in the traditional V-shaped fore cabin. A second cabin is on the stern, on the left, while a bathroom and a large technical locker are located forward. The mid-boat houses a dinette, two berths, a table and a U-shaped kitchen. The boat is available in two different versions: a total white one and Herreshoff Classic, with wood elements.