Edel 3 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Edel 3 is intrinsically linked to the vision of its builder, Edel, founded by brothers Maurice and Pierre Edel in France around 1956. Maurice Edel was a forward-thinker who recognized the potential of fiberglass as a superior material for yacht construction over traditional wood, positioning Edel as one of the earliest French builders to embrace this innovation. The company quickly gained a reputation for crafting reliable and practical fiberglass yachts, particularly focusing on trailerable sailboats.

The Edel 3, a product of this era, was a collaboration between Maurice Edel and the prolific designer Philippe Harlé. Harlé, known for designing a vast number of sailing yachts throughout his career, contributed to a legacy of practical and well-regarded vessels. While specific design philosophies for the Edel 3 are not extensively documented, Harlé's general approach, combined with Edel's commitment to robust and accessible boats, suggests a focus on creating a dependable and enjoyable coastal cruiser. The boat's production spanned seven years, a testament to its initial appeal and the builder's consistent output during this period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Edel 3 was designed with a focus on capable sailing performance and stability. Rigged as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, it offers a combination of good directional stability and responsiveness. Owners have described the Edel 3 as a "high performer" for its size, noting its "very stable/stiff" characteristics, which contribute to a confident feel on the water. This design choice would have allowed the boat to stand up well to wind, making it suitable for a variety of conditions, from light breezes to more challenging coastal waters. Its hull speed is calculated at approximately 6.03 knots, indicating respectable pace for a boat of its length.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Edel 3, typical for a 25-foot sailboat of its era, would have been arranged to maximize usable space for coastal cruising. While detailed interior layouts are not readily available in common databases, one can infer a conventional arrangement. This would likely include a V-berth forward for sleeping, a compact salon with settees that may double as additional berths, and a small galley area designed for basic meal preparation. A marine head would typically be located forward or amidships. Given Edel's reputation for practical designs, the interior would have prioritized functionality, durability, and essential amenities for weekend trips and short cruises. The use of fiberglass for the hull would have allowed for relatively easy-to-maintain surfaces, complemented by some wood trim for a warmer aesthetic.