Gib'sea 96 Information, Review, Specs

Embodying the Gib'sea brand's ethos of creating comfortable, spacious, and practical cruising yachts, the 96 was a testament to Gibert Marine's commitment to user-friendly characteristics that resonated with a broad range of sailors. The company, founded by Olivier Gibert with strong ties to the Jeanneau shipyard, focused on producing robust fiberglass sailing yachts for comfortable cruising, a philosophy evident in the 96's design.

History and Design

The Gib'sea 96 entered production in 1984, continuing until 1987, during a period when Gibert Marine was solidifying its reputation for dependable cruising boats,. The design vision, spearheaded by Michel Joubert and Bernard Nivelt, aimed to create a sailboat that offered "roomy comfortable living down below" while still sailing well. This was achieved through a "slightly more spacy hull design," reflecting the designers' broader goal of creating versatile yachts suitable for long-distance sailing.

Gibert Marine, known for its emphasis on comfort and practicality, built the 96 with a fiberglass balsa core hull and deck, ensuring a balance of strength and weight, Builder Article]. While primarily offered with a fin keel, a keel/centerboard version was also available, providing versatility for sailors navigating shallower waters. The Gib'sea 96 also saw the introduction of a "Master" variant, which some sources suggest featured improved ergonomics and more refined woodwork compared to the standard model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 33 feet and a waterline length of 27.25 feet, the Gib'sea 96 combines a moderate hull size with attributes geared towards enjoyable sailing. Its calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.04 indicates a relatively capable performer that should fare well in light to moderate winds without being overly tender in a breeze. This suggests a good balance for a cruiser, offering respectable speed without demanding a racing crew.

The boat's displacement to length ratio of around 189.9 places it in the lighter category of cruising yachts, contributing to its description as a "light sailboat which is a good performer". Despite a ballast to displacement ratio of 0.302, which might suggest a less stiff boat, the Gib'sea 96 is generally regarded as "reasonably stable / stiff" by those familiar with its handling. This stability, combined with its skeg-hung rudder, contributes to a balanced helm and a "smooth motion" in various sea states, making for a comfortable ride [17,. Owners and reviewers often describe it as a boat "designed to sail well".

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gib'sea 96 is designed for comfort and practicality, consistent with Gibert Marine's cruising focus. It is known for its "very decent accommodation in a modern layout". Typically, the interior features a forward cabin, a saloon, and, notably, "two large aft cabins," which was a significant feature for a boat of its size during its production era. This generous aft cabin layout, often referred to as a "generous aft cabin," provides ample private sleeping quarters.

The finish quality often includes mahogany woodwork, contributing to a classic marine ambiance. The overall design prioritizes interior volume, ensuring "roomy comfortable living down below". While specific details on storage and ventilation would vary by individual boat and owner modifications, the general Gib'sea design philosophy suggests adequate provisions for extended cruising. The "Master" version, in particular, is noted for offering enhanced ergonomics and woodwork, potentially signifying a more refined interior experience.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gib'sea 96 frequently commend its robust construction and comfortable motion offshore, reflecting the inherent qualities built into Gib'sea yachts. Many consider it among the "best Gibsea's made in the eighties," with some owners expressing long-term satisfaction and conviction in its suitability for their needs. The enduring presence of the Gib'sea 96 in the used boat market and its appeal to sailors seeking reliable, comfortable, and practical cruising yachts underscore its robust construction and lasting design, 5]. Common positive remarks often center on its practical layout and the overall seaworthiness for a boat in its class.