Etap 34S Information, Review, Specs

Designed by the renowned French naval architects Mortain & Mavrikios, the Etap 34S embodies the builder's philosophy of combining innovative construction with strong sailing characteristics.

History and Design

The Etap 34S was introduced in 1997 and remained in production until 2006, with 85 units built during this period. Designed by Mortain & Mavrikios, the vessel was conceived as a modern cruiser that prioritizes both sailing performance and onboard comfort. A review in Yachting Monthly in 2005 noted that the Etap 34S featured a taller rig compared to its predecessor, indicating a design evolution aimed at enhancing its sailing capabilities.

Etap Yachting, the Belgian builder, established a strong reputation for its "unsinkable" double-hull construction, a defining characteristic implemented from its inception in 1970. This innovative technique involves injecting foam between an inner and outer hull, providing exceptional buoyancy and making the boats virtually unsinkable. This double-skinned construction also delivers superior insulation, which contributes to a drier and more comfortable interior by preventing condensation. The 34S exemplifies this manufacturing ethos, ensuring a robust build quality that aligns with Etap's commitment to safety and comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Etap 34S, a fractional sloop, is characterized by a design that balances responsiveness with stability. With a reported sail area of 680 square feet and a displacement of 10,000 pounds, her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) calculates to approximately 23.5. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Etap 34S is well-powered and capable of performing admirably in lighter air conditions. Her displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 169.3 indicates a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser, capable of good speeds for her size. While her ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.32 is moderate, offering decent stiffness, the double-hull construction contributes to the boat's overall stability. The hull's Angle of Vanishing Stability (AVS) is noted to be around 125, which signifies a high degree of ultimate stability.

Anecdotal reports praise the Etap 34S for its "good sailing performances" and classify it as a "sporty yacht". Owners have found it to offer "exceptional stability and maneuverability". A notable feature is its "EVS steering," described as a modern and light swing-tiller system, which enhances handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Etap 34S is designed to maximize light and space, contributing to a "light and spacious" feel below deck. Following a "Euro styling" prevalent in European yachts, the interior features bulkheads and furniture fabricated from pale materials, contributing to its airy ambiance.

Typically, the layout accommodates two cabins and offers six berths, along with a functional galley. While specific details on the head compartment and storage vary by individual boat and owner modifications, the double-hull construction provides superior insulation that helps in preventing condensation, leading to a drier and more comfortable living environment, 7]. This thoughtful design ensures that despite its performance orientation, the Etap 34S provides a comfortable and practical living space for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Etap yachts, including the 34S, frequently commend the brand's commitment to robust construction and the comfortable motion these boats exhibit in a seaway. The unique "unsinkable" feature, resulting from the double-hull construction, is a significant selling point that contributes to a high sense of security among owners, 7]. Many find the vessels easy to handle and appreciate their high resale value, which is a testament to their enduring quality and design.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have reported potential issues such as the presence of osmosis spots or blisters on the hull, which, while noted during inspections, are typically described as resolvable. Overall, the Etap 34S maintains a loyal following among sailors who prioritize safety, comfort, and a solid sailing experience.