Participant II

Racing Sailboat Participant II

The J/97 is the first J in over two decades under 32 feet to combine headroom and family cruising accommodations in a high performance, easily driven hull. With the handling ease of an asymmetric spinnaker and non-overlapping headsails, the J/97 promises to be J Boats' most versatile design yet under 35 feet to fit the needs of today's sailing families, both young and old alike.

The key to creating a versatile sailboat is staying focused on the quality of the sailing experience, a trait shared by all J designs. Boats that are easily driven, easily handled, and genuinely fun to sail provide greater long-term sailing value to their owners than designs driven by the latest rating rule or designs that are over-compromised to meet the latest styling trends.

Form usually follows function in good sailboat design, and the J/97 is no exception. The cockpit features full length seats with back rests, tiller steering, and a unique, partially open transom that incorporates life-raft storage. All sailing controls are within reach of the helmsperson to make the boat very easy to manage.

A retractable bow sprit with masthead asymmetric spinnaker allows great all-around performance without the need for numerous skilled crew. The low VCG keel provides exceptional upwind stability while being cruising friendly with swept back leading edge and moderate draft.

The interior layout is open and airy and is ideal for one couple cruising with room for more. It includes a spacious main cabin with two settees, galley, forward-facing navigation station: plus, an enclosed aft head, V-berth, and aft owner's cabin. Cruising stowage includes a large "garage" aft of the head (accessed through the cockpit seat locker).