(Seattle, Washington)- The first J/Boat created after the revolutionary
24-footer was the J/30 in 1979. The Johnstone team saw a place in the
market for a fast 30-foot +/- racer-cruiser, and the J/30 fit that bill
nicely. They're still great boats.In 2009, J/Boats introduced the J/97 (31.5'), which targeted that same racer-cruiser market with a much more modern design paradigm. Much had changed in the nearly 30 years since the J/30. The new boat, though heavier, was dramatically faster and arguably more comfort-able with an aft double and aft head.
With the asymmetrical spinnaker and non-overlapping headsails, it was also easier to sail shorthanded. The new J/97E hull design may not be new, and the general arrangement and target market not much different from the J/97, but when the "e" (take your pick, either evolution or elegance) is added, there are some meaningful changes. The interior still features an aft head and double berth under the cockpit. The galley to port and nay station to starboard are both compact but definitely practical, and with port and starboard settees, the whole crew can gather together for drinks when it’s raining (note- you can tell a Seattle sailor is thinking smartly!). Read more of the NW Yachting review here.
Please note, the NEW J/97E (with wheel option) will be featured at the Newport Boat Show, September 17-20, and the Annapolis Boat Show, October 8-12.
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