Delanta 80 (Dehler) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Delanta 80 begins with its introduction in 1975, marking it as a significant model within Dehler's early lineup of keel sailing yachts. The builder, Dehler Yachts, under the guidance of Willi Dehler, was a pioneer in using glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GRP) for boat construction, aiming to redefine the sailing experience with yachts that were both comfortable and swift. The Delanta 80 was designed by E.G. van de Stadt, a naval architect whose firm had a strong association with Dehler, contributing to a legacy of performance-oriented yet practical boats. Production continued for several years, with models appearing through at least 1980.

The Delanta 80 was designed for ease of use, exceptional seaworthiness, and enduring quality, embodying Dehler's commitment to "Smart Perfection" in its era. It features a fiberglass solid hull and deck, indicative of the robust construction methods of the time. The standard configuration for the Delanta 80 included a fin keel with a max draft of 4.1 feet and a spade rudder, providing good control and stability. A keel/centerboard version was also offered, allowing for a shallower draft of 2.62 feet when the board was up, expanding its accessibility to various cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size with a length overall of 26.25 feet and a waterline of 20.01 feet, the Dehler Delanta 80 offers an enjoyable and responsive sailing experience. Owners frequently describe the boat as pleasant to sail and capable of performing well even in stronger winds. Its masthead sloop rig, with a reported total sail area of 323 square feet, provides ample power. The Delanta 80 is noted for its good sailing characteristics, with many controls often led to the spacious cockpit, facilitating ease of operation for a small crew or single-handing. This design focus aligns with Dehler's reputation for blending competitive performance with user-friendliness, a hallmark of their yachts during this period.

Accommodations and Layout

The Dehler Delanta 80 was conceived as a comfortable "camping cruiser," prioritizing liveability below deck, especially for its length. A key feature that makes it a "good family boat" is the inclusion of an aft cabin, which typically provides two additional sleeping berths, supplementing the main salon. This aft cabin arrangement is a notable advantage for a boat of this size, maximizing sleeping capacity and offering privacy.

The interior boasts considerable comfort for its class, with a reported maximum headroom of approximately 1.79 meters (around 5.87 feet), allowing most occupants to stand upright in the main cabin area. The main salon generally includes seating arrangements that can convert into berths, a galley area for basic cooking, and often a marine head. While specific details on materials like wood trim versus fiberglass finishes are not extensively documented in available public reviews, Dehler's general reputation suggests a focus on functional and well-engineered interiors, with thoughtful use of space for storage and comfort.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dehler Delanta 80 consistently praise its solid construction and the enjoyable sailing experience it provides, often highlighting its responsiveness and ability to handle various wind conditions with confidence. Many appreciate its suitability as a family boat, largely due to the practical aft cabin and generally spacious cockpit, which enhances both cruising comfort and social interaction on deck. The reputation for good sailing characteristics contributes to owner satisfaction.

However, like many fiberglass boats of its vintage, the Delanta series can occasionally present certain challenges. A recurring concern mentioned by some owners is the potential for hull delamination, an issue that can affect older GRP boats and may require inspection and repair. Despite this, the overall sentiment among owners appears to be positive, reflecting the durable build quality and thoughtful design that have allowed these boats to remain in active use for decades.