Edel 730 Information, Review, Specs

Initially marketed towards both racing enthusiasts and coastal cruisers, the Edel 730 quickly established a reputation as a high-performing and stable vessel for its size, offering a "spacy hull design" that contributed to its internal comfort.

History and Design

The Edel 730's production run was relatively brief, with approximately 50 units built between 1981 and 1983. This period represents a significant era for the Edel shipyard, founded by brothers Maurice and Pierre Edel in France. The company was at the forefront of adopting fiberglass construction in the French marine industry, a strategic move by Maurice Edel who recognized the limitations of traditional wood construction. Their ethos centered on producing practical, robust, and often trailerable sailboats that appealed to a broad spectrum of mariners.

Maurice Edel, the designer of the Edel 730, was known for his balanced approach, creating monohull designs that harmonized performance with liveability. The 730, with its primary keel/centerboard configuration, exemplifies this philosophy, allowing for a minimum draft of 2.3 feet and a maximum draft of 4.76 feet, providing access to shallow anchorages while maintaining upwind performance. A fixed keel version was also available, featuring a draft of 4.59 feet, offering an alternative for those prioritizing stability in deeper waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Edel 730 is characterized as a "moderate weight sailboat" and a "very high performer". Its design incorporates key ratios that indicate a lively and capable vessel. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 26.28, the Edel 730 boasts a high sail area relative to its displacement, suggesting excellent performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions. This allows the boat to accelerate quickly and maintain speed even when the breeze is subtle.

Stability is another hallmark of the Edel 730. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at approximately 39.99%, indicating a good amount of ballast relative to its overall weight. This high ratio contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness, enabling it to stand up well to a strong breeze without excessive heeling and providing a stable platform for cruising. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of 287.26 positions the Edel 730 in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category for a boat of its size, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than the lighter, more sensitive feel of a pure racer. Despite this, its overall design still leans towards performance, making it suitable for racing as well as cruising. While one review noted a "deck plan not very practical," the boat is generally considered to be one of the more comfortable options in its range.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior diagrams for the Edel 730 are not widely available, its "spacy hull design" suggests a thoughtful approach to maximizing interior volume for a boat of just under 24 feet. Owners and reviews often highlight its comfort for its class. Typically, boats of this size from the early 1980s would feature a V-berth forward, a small enclosed head, a compact galley area (often with a sink and space for a stove), and a main salon with settees that could convert into additional berths. Storage would be integrated throughout, with lockers under berths and shelving.

Given Edel's reputation for practical and robust construction using fiberglass, the interior finish would likely have been functional and durable, with a blend of fiberglass surfaces and wood trim. The emphasis would have been on creating a usable and relatively comfortable space for coastal cruising or weekend trips, prioritizing utility and accessibility.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Edel 730 often commend its solid construction and versatile sailing capabilities. While comprehensive owner reviews are scarce, forum discussions and online communities dedicated to Edel sailboats suggest a loyal following. The centerboard version is particularly appreciated for its ability to access shallow waters, expanding cruising grounds considerably.

Common discussions among owners often revolve around maintenance and renovation projects, reflecting the age of these vessels. The robust fiberglass hull and deck, characteristic of Edel's early adoption of the material, are generally well-regarded for their longevity, though typical issues related to aging components like deck fittings or interior wear may arise. The Edel 730 is perceived as a boat that, with proper care, continues to offer a rewarding sailing experience for those who value performance and a practical, comfortable layout in a compact package.