J/108 Sailing Performance

Underlying J/108's leap in shoal-draft performance is a uniquely designed fixed keel with integral pivoting centerboard system. As with the J/95, the centerboard system controls are cockpit led and designed for easy raising and lowering by one person. The fixed keel design, combined with twin rudders and an efficient hull shape and sailplan will allow the J/108 to sail within a few degrees of leeway of its sister J/109 upwind while retaining the stability essential for a comfortable ride. Finger-tip steering with near “hockey stop” turning power in any wind provides both exceptional balance and confidence.

Simplifying one’s life flying both the asymmetric spinnaker and storing the anchor are prime considerations when performance cruising. A fixed composite sprit with stainless rod support provides you the best of both worlds-- the ability to fly your spinnaker or Code Zero/One free of the bow pulpit, while the integral anchor roller system with windlass over the chain/anchor line locker permits you to simply push a button and deploy or store the anchor.

What is J Cruising?
It’s all about having fun, enjoying sailing with family and friends and having a beautiful, easy-to-handle sailboat that inspires confidence and joy. It’s about having the ability to fulfill those childhood dreams of cruising faraway lands, getting there in a timely, safe fashion and not being hindered by the inability of your boat to sail well in all weather conditions. The world’s not a mill-pond and you must have the confidence not just in yourself, but your boat to get you there.

J’s have cruised the world’s seven seas, logging 100’s of thousands of miles. In dynamic, challenging weather conditions, there's nothing easier than sailing a J. The J/108, with mainsail and non-overlapping jib, outperforms any cruiser in its size range. With the floor-mounted traveler and European mainsheet system led to two winches (P&S) one can easily steer and trim at the same time. For more horsepower, simply pull out the jib on its roller furling system and take off like a rocket.

J cruising is all about sailing, not motoring – a J sails in light winds and is stable in a blow. This wide range means you're sailing rather than motoring 2/3rds of the time... which is better for one's peace of mind as well as planet earth.