- From 6,000 euros
- 969 copies from 1982 to 1997
It's true that we don't hear much about him anymore... And yet, from 1982 to the end of the 1990s, he was THE reference monotype. The cessation of production has led to a decrease in the activity of this regatta class, although it was for a time in overdrive on the Spanish coast (Hispanic clubs have bought back dozens of boats).
Fast but demanding, this small low freeboard racer trained hundreds of crew in the regatta. Today, with its pivoting keel, it remains easy to transport on the road and can be used in inter-series. But this solid hull can also be transformed into a coastal cruiser for a couple with little regard for comfort.
And what is your secret technique against seasickness?
The diagnosis of Bateaux.com
Ex glory of Bénéteau, class 8 is indestructible or almost indestructible. The most abused units in clubs are scratched, the listons dented... but the decks remain rigid and the masts in place. Like the swivel pins on the smaller models on site, it is most often on the side of the bronze nut and endless stainless steel rod that the problems come - not to mention the axle and the wedging system. A tip: grease the mechanism regularly!
"At first, we wanted to make a complete boat that could regatta but also take the family out on outings, like a day-boat."
Jean-Marie Finot, First Class 8 architect.
The advantages of the pod
The disadvantages of the pod
But what is it missing?
More softness at the helm... apart from that, this rustic sailor remains an excellent support to skim the water for a low price.
And what is your secret technique against seasickness?
The equivalent today?
The J80 offers precisely this much more pleasant helm feel, a larger cockpit and a huge asy spinnaker... but with its fixed keel and emplaned mast, it is much more demanding to transport on the road.
