Elan 707 Information, Review, Specs

The Elan 707's journey began with its first production in 1978, at a time when Elan Marine was firmly established in fiberglass boat construction, a material transition they had pioneered in 1962. The builder, founded in 1949, had by this point shifted from initial wooden boat production to more consistent and planned manufacturing with reinforced polyester. The Elan 707 was designed by Miha Pretnar, who, in developing the boat, opted for a "significantly more spacy hull design," aiming to enhance the internal volume for its size. This design choice reflects Elan's broader ethos of blending performance with comfortable amenities, even in their smaller craft.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Built with a fiberglass hull and a fin keel paired with a skeg-hung rudder, the Elan 707 is configured as a fractional sloop, a rigging choice often favored for its ease of trim and responsiveness. Its design suggests a boat that is relatively agile and enjoyable to sail, consistent with the reputation of Elan yachts for delivering an exhilarating experience. The fractional rig contributes to good upwind performance and allows for flexible sail configurations, making it adaptable to various wind conditions. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder typically provide good directional stability and control, offering a balanced helm. The boat is powered by a 9 HP Volvo Penta diesel engine, ensuring reliable auxiliary propulsion.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length of just over 25 feet, the Elan 707 was designed with a focus on maximizing interior volume. The designer's intent for a "more spacy hull design" translates into an interior that aims to provide comfortable, albeit compact, accommodations for a vessel of its size. The layout typically includes basic provisions for overnight stays and weekending, commonly featuring a V-berth forward, a small salon area, and rudimentary galley facilities. The Elan 707 is equipped with a fresh water capacity of 26 US gallons, providing sufficient supply for short trips. While specific details on headroom are not available, the emphasis on interior space suggests a practical arrangement designed for comfort during coastal voyages and shorter excursions.