Aikido Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Aikido's production run from 1969 to 1978 places it firmly within an era when CNSO was establishing itself as a significant builder in the French marine industry. Founded by Otto Tiefenbach in 1960, CNSO's manufacturing ethos focused on creating well-built cruising sailboats appealing to a broad spectrum of sailors seeking comfortable and enjoyable vessels. The yard was known for its consistent output of well-received cruising yachts, likely transitioning to fiberglass construction, a material that revolutionized boat building through its durability and reduced maintenance. There is no readily available information suggesting significant variations or different marks of the Aikido model during its production period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 30 feet (29.53 ft) and a waterline length of 20.01 feet, the CNSO Aikido features a fin keel and a masthead sloop rig, providing a traditional and reliable sailing platform. Her reported sail area of 430 square feet combined with a displacement of 5,512 pounds results in a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 22.09. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Aikido is likely a capable performer in lighter air, able to move well even when winds are moderate.

Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of roughly 306.9 indicates a heavier displacement vessel. This places the Aikido firmly in the category of a traditional cruiser, suggesting a boat designed for a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed. While specific anecdotal descriptions of the Aikido's handling characteristics are not widely documented, boats with these ratios typically offer a steady and predictable ride, prioritizing stability and comfort for coastal or offshore cruising. The absence of specific ballast information in available data precludes a detailed analysis of its ballast-to-displacement ratio, which would further illuminate its stiffness. The boat's hull speed is calculated at 5.99 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts and specifications for the CNSO Aikido are not extensively published. However, like many cruising sailboats of its size and era, it would typically feature a functional interior designed for overnight and weekend trips. With a beam of 9.38 feet, the Aikido would offer reasonable interior volume for its length. Common arrangements for a boat of this type include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a small galley area, and a dedicated or enclosed head compartment. Given CNSO's reputation for building robust cruisers, the interior would likely prioritize practicality and durability, with finishes typical of the period, often incorporating wood trim alongside fiberglass liners. Storage solutions would be integrated throughout for provisions and gear, essential for extended cruising.