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The Esse 890: from sporty to versatile
The Swiss shipyard Esseboats is back with a new model that aims to shake things up: the Esse 890, a sub-nine-meter sailboat designed for both performance-hungry racers and weekend cruisers looking for a light, simple and efficient boat. Beyond the marketing hype, we took a look at what this Felci Yacht Design model actually offers.
A cockpit designed for single or double-handed operation
The cockpit is where it all happens on a yacht of this type. The Esse 890 doesn't pretend: wide cockpit, winches within reach, clear maneuvering, no unnecessary frills.
With its uncluttered deck layout and fluid circulation, the boat is easy to steer solo, even under gennaker. A detail appreciated by solo sailors: the companionway entrance is very wide, allowing you to lower a sail or stow without any acrobatics.
A 100% carbon rig as standard
No compromises on the mast: carbon for mast, boom, spreaders and even the rigid vang. This reduces the weight up top and significantly improves the boat's responsiveness, both for fast cruising and racing.
As for the sail plan, 50 m2 upwind, 85 downwind with the gennaker: the power is there. The rig is fixed, with no backstay, which simplifies trimming.
A hull that favors glide over heel
Felci's hull design is in line with other Esse models: long on the water (8.30 m waterline), narrow (2.48 m), with little wetted surface. The result is a boat that glides effortlessly and holds its course well.
The 2.10 m draught is reduced thanks to a lifting keel, making it easy to trailer and navigate on shallow waters.
Infusion construction for greater rigidity
The Esse 890 is built using a vacuum infusion process with sandwich foam. The objective is clear: to obtain a lightweight, yet structurally rigid boat. At 1,600 kg in running order, with 780 kg of ballast, the weight-to-weight ratio is favorable to stability.
This process guarantees good laminate homogeneity, but requires real expertise on site, in this case provided by Schuchter Sportboot AG, based in Stäfa, on the shores of Lake Zurich.
A minimalist, modular interior layout
The interior is not there to lounge around for weeks on end, but to meet the needs of the crew: changing clothes, sleeping for a night or two, stowing equipment.
The space remains open, with no partitions, and the layout can be adapted to suit the use: regatta or cruising. You don't need to expect the comfort of a cruising sailboat, but for a weekend with friends or a race with a stopover, it's fine.
Discreet yet functional motorization
Two options are available: chair-mounted outboard or retractable inboard motor. The latter is rare on this type of boat and allows you to keep the cockpit clear, which is always a plus when racing.
This choice of motorization also keeps the boat light, while meeting the requirements of different types of water.
A sailboat that can be towed without too much hassle
With a width of less than 2.50 m, the Esse 890 fits on a standard road trailer (with authorization depending on the country), which may appeal to yachtsmen who want to change waterways according to the season.
Beware, however, of the total weight with rig and equipment, which may approach the legal limits for non-professional towing.
An identifiable lineage in the Esseboats universe
The Esse 890 follows in the footsteps of a series of sporty, elegant boats, from the 750 to the 990, including the iconic 850. The Felci signature is evident in the design: fine lines, balance, a quest for performance without sacrificing aesthetics.
Since 2021, the Schuchter brothers have been in charge of the shipyard, perpetuating its rigorous, artisanal approach.
Who is the Esse 890 really designed for?
The boat is aimed at a specific target: seasoned racers looking for a one-design or fast support for training and racing in small fleets, as well as fans of express coastal cruising.
No convertible saloon or table for aperitifs, but a lively, responsive boat that gives the sensation of speed at the helm.
