Racing a J Class Yacht

“No other class requires a crew of 30 plus experienced sailors to manage more than 10,000 square feet of sail driving a 200 ton hull at 16 knots around the course”
In the 1930s they were the ultimate racing yachts. Now, with advanced rigging, hydraulics, carbon masts, PBO ropes and electronic navigation systems, the new Js still represent the most demanding yachts in the world. Sailors just off TP52s and Volvo yachts declare their awe at the power, loadings, size, skill and management required to race these monsters which are around 40 metres (140 feet) long and draw 5 metres (16 feet).
Changing a genoa on a downwind leg takes 10 minutes and commits almost all the crew to lift and reposition sails, making every tactical decision critical.
Yet these yachts are incredibly maneuverable and with no guardrails, spectacular to watch, making them probably the ultimate big yacht racing platform.
“Being aboard a J is about the power and glory of sailing. It provides a unique link with another era dominated by one of the most visually stunning classes ever to take to the water”.
David Glenn, Yachting World
“It’s fantastic to see these magnificent giant J Boats back on the water racing after some 70 years and especially to have so many new replicas of the Golden J Boat era under construction”
Erle Williams, Helmsman
“I had the chance to be on the start line with two other Js for the first time in 50 something years. Now I’m hooked on the power, performance and challenge of racing Velsheda against other J’ as well as modern Maxis”. Tom Dodson, North Sails