J Boats J/120

Additional Information

The J/120 is an impressive 12-meter, high-performance sailboat with a cruising interior and equipment. Her size will appeal to both sailors who want to go fast around the buoys and those who appreciate fast cruising with a thrilling sailing sensation without sacrificing real comfort once they arrive at an anchorage or in port. TPI shapes the hull with its resin infusion process, using resin-infused vacuum bagging, to achieve a 65-70 percent glass-to-resin ratio and minimal environmental impact during construction. The Baltek fine-grain balsa core is covered with biaxial and unidirectional glass skins; the outer hull uses vinylester resin, structural bulkheads and a structure of solid glass L-beams that reinforce the hull. The mast rests on an aluminum I-beam keel step. All windows are carefully finished. The lightweight hull is powered by a large mainsail mounted on a Hall spars carbon fiber mast and boom with double spreader rigged with rods, a retractable carbon fiber bowsprit. The traveler, with its double-ended mainsheet, is positioned next to the binnacle, which makes it easy for a helmsman to steer and manage the mainsail from either side or when positioned on the centerline. Fast and easy to handle, it reaches excellent speeds both upwind, with a good tight angle to the wind, and downwind where it can take advantage of a gennaker mounted on a retractable bowsprit that is comfortable and quick to open. The engine, a 50 HP Yanmar, is abundant and easily takes the boat to the hull's limit speed. Engine control is good both forward and reverse, although the large paddle rudder requires you to keep a steady hand on the wheel when going in reverse, but it does provide excellent control and reaction when sailing. Below deck, the cabin is bright, open and liveable, with plenty of portholes and opening hatches for ventilation and well-placed handrails for safety. There are, inevitably, some compromises between performance and elegance, such as a bit of intrusion into the foredeck by the retracted bowsprit and a fair amount of linearity in the interior furniture. Overall, however, it is a very liveable interior with good storage, clearly designed by sailors for sailors. For example, the chart table has a thoughtfully divided shelf inside to organize pencils, dividers, rules and other essentials. The boat can be handled with ease by a reasonably fit couple, making it a serious choice for any sailor who wants to cruise quickly without sacrificing creature comforts. For owners who want to enjoy some real sailing on a voyage and then have a pleasant vacation spot on the water when they arrive, this boat provides an excellent answer.