French Cruising Details

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Several interesting details to comment on with this aluminum French yacht.

What first caught our eye is the swim ladder integrated into the base  of the radar mast. In particular note the hinge mechanism. Simple and functional.

The wind vane hung off the transom is always vulnerable to damage when tied stern to and from other yachts when at anchor.The sturdy rub rail surrounding and supporting the wind vane provides excellent protection.

And then a detail with which we have had problems, the low life raft installation. It will undoubtedly be doused with following seas. Eventually moisture will find its way inside the cover damaging raft fabric and contents.  Although it is often a hassle to find space for the life raft, we prefer them on deck.

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We like the small cockpit volume shown here. Not what you will find on a yacht designed for the masses, but excellent for a seagoing couple. It reduces the weight of water carried from a boarding sea, and allows more interior space.

Note the sail cover/containment system for the mainsail. A great addition to lazy jacks, but you need to keep the cover zipped when in port to reduce sun damage to the top of the sail.


Posted by Steve Dashew  (June 26, 2010)



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