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 follows function in good sailboat design, the J/97E is no exception.

The NEW J/97E cockpit is similar to the award-winning cockpit found on the J/111.  It features full length seats with back rests, wheel or tiller steering, and an open transom. 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 J/97E’s new interior layout conveys a feeling of extraordinary of a wide, spacious living room with windows looking out to the sea.  With large overhead hatches, enormous cabin windows and large portligths over the settees, it feels like you’re outdoors!  It’s ideal for one couple cruising with room for more.  The enormous main cabin has 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).