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A regatta classic refurbished for modern coastal sailing
The First Class 8 is far from having said its last word. In La Rochelle, the Flotte shipyard has taken on the task of completely redesigning this one-design boat, well known to regatta sailors, to offer an updated version designed as a simple, fast and silent dayboat. Renamed Kwal 8, this model retains the fine lines and load-bearing plan of the original design, while incorporating modern materials and an electric motor.
The project was based on a simple observation: too many solid but aging hulls are destined for the scrap heap, for lack of buyers. Damien Ribadeau-Dumas's team decided to carry out a thorough restoration, using a craftsman's approach and a selection of new or refurbished equipment. The idea behind this refit is not to do a "one-shot" restoration, but to industrialize a circular economy process based on a healthy unit, which has demonstrated excellent marine qualities, and which is widely available on the second-hand market.
A streamlined cockpit for day trips or local regattas
Each Kwal 8 starts with a complete stripping-down. The hull is inspected, reinforced if necessary, then coated and repainted. The standing rigging is replaced, portholes are changed, mast and boom are dismantled, waterproofed and repainted. The deck layout was simplified, notably by eliminating the aft beam that supported the upper rudder shaft. To achieve this, the team shapéd and restraté a module to take the rudder forces, while integrating a swim ladder. The result is a clear cockpit with direct access to the water.
Gone, too, is the mainsail track that obstructed circulation. The mainsheet clew is now located on a chainplate at the bottom of the cockpit, which can be easily removed to overhang the boom when the boat is at anchor.
The aluminum fargue rail, which has martyred the buttocks of several generations of sailors, is a thing of the past. The scantlings have been replaced by exotic wood, and the glulam helm echoes neo-classical dayboats. The whole design retains the sporting spirit of the original boat, while gaining in sobriety and comfort.
On-board electric drive
The Kwal 8 abandons the chair-mounted thermal outboard in favor of electric inboard propulsion: a 1 kW Epropulsion pod, powered by a 1,200 Wh battery. An option allows the addition of a more powerful battery or a fast charger. The motor is discreet and clean, and provides noiseless, reject-free cruising, perfectly suited to coastal areas, anchorages and harbor maneuvers.
Preserved velocity
Although it has had to accept some concessions compared with the Class 8, Le Kwal does not deny the performance under sail that made the famous one-design such a success. With its new sail area (20.3 m² for the mainsail, 18.5 m² for the Furlex furling genoa), the boat retains its playful performance. The hull is 8.50 m long and 2.49 m wide, with a ballast of 515 kg and a draught varying between 0.70 m and 1.75 m. Enough to satisfy local regatta enthusiasts as well as Sunday boaters.
A la carte options for those who want more
For those who want to take versatility to the next level, the site offers a van-life-style interior with kitchenette, storage space, custom upholstery and Ecoflow-type electrical installation with fridge, sink and stove. A road trailer is also available, as is a delivery service anywhere in France.
A credible alternative to classic dayboats
The Kwal 8 aims to make its mark in the 8-10m day boat segment. Positioned between the lines of a Pabouk, a Tofinou or a Saffier, but based on a proven hull, the Kwal 8 stands out for its re-use approach and ease of use. Available for ?35,000 with a new set of sails and an electric motor, it comes with a two-year warranty. Halfway between a renovated second-hand boat and a brand-new sailboat, it will appeal to both family outings and racing enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-maintain, roadworthy boat with a sleek silhouette.
