(Les Sables d'Olonne, France)- Launched this past week, the J/108
fulfilled lofty goals to continue the tradition of legendary J
performance in a shoal-draft cruising boat. The combination of the
J/108's twin rudders and unique keel/ centerboard design have proven so
far to exceed performance expectations. In moderate to strong breezes
and enormous three meter swell running from North Atlantic storms into
the Bay of Biscay, the J/108 performed admirably, easily sailed upwind
by two people (see photo) in what could be described as "difficult"
conditions for shoal-draft boat going to windward. Reports from the
builder Didier LeMoal and J/Boats' Florida dealer, CrossCurrent Marine's
Craig Crossley, were that upwind "she steers like a dream, the
twin-rudders permit you to point the 108 anywhere you want,
instantaneously, with no lag in response to the wheel- a remarkable
attribute of this particular shoal-draft design". Like her smaller
twin-sister, the 108 can do a "hockey-stop", turning 90 degrees within
half a boat-length. And, going backwards under power it's easy to
"parallel-park" onto a dock or back into a slip with ease, inspiring
enormous confidence in maneuvers that cause many anxiety.
The J/108 will be spending time in Florida and Key West during Race Week
at the Galleon Resort. Learn more about it now, contact your local J
Dealer or J/Boats- ph# 401-846-8410 or info@jboats.com. For demos you
may also contact Craig Crossley at CrossCurrent Marine-
craig.crossley@gmail.com or phone +1-401-330-6135. For
more J/108 sailboat information.