Pico-Plus (Gib'sea) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gib'sea Pico-Plus emerged from the Gibert Marine shipyard, a company founded by Olivier Gibert, who aimed to produce comfortable, spacious, and practical cruising yachts. Established in Marans, France, Gibert Marine became known for its fiberglass sailing vessels, often sharing design philosophies with Jeanneau due to the founder's connections. The Pico-Plus exemplifies this ethos, offering a robust fiberglass hull that requires minimal maintenance.

Designed by the prolific duo Joubert-Nivelt, who contributed to many Gib'sea models, the Pico-Plus was part of a broader range of smaller Gib'sea vessels, including the original Pico. The design brief for the Pico-Plus likely emphasized a balance of easy handling, spirited performance, and practical accommodations within a small footprint, catering to a market seeking accessible and enjoyable sailing. Its production run of a decade, from 1980 to 1990, attests to its popularity during that era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

For a sailboat of its size, the Gib'sea Pico-Plus is known for being a light and high-performing vessel. Its fractional sloop rig allows for efficient sail trim and responsiveness. Equipped with a centerboard keel, the Pico-Plus offers impressive versatility, allowing for both deeper draft performance upwind and the ability to explore shallower anchorages or be easily trailered with a minimum draft of 1.31 feet.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Pico-Plus is generally stable and stiff for its class, capable of standing up to a breeze. However, as a lighter displacement boat, it is best suited for coastal cruising and day sailing, rather than challenging offshore conditions. Its design prioritizes agility and lively performance, making it an engaging boat to sail for those who appreciate responsive handling in varied conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 20 feet, the Gib'sea Pico-Plus surprises with its interior volume. Compared to other similar sailboats, it is noted for being more spacious than many of its contemporaries in the small boat category. While detailed interior diagrams are scarce, the layout typical for a compact cruiser of its era would likely feature a V-berth forward, a small convertible salon area, and possibly a basic galley setup. Given Gibert Marine's reputation for practical and comfortable cruising yachts, the interior would have focused on maximizing usable space and providing essential amenities for weekend trips and day-sailing adventures. The fiberglass construction, characteristic of Gib'sea, would have formed the base of the interior, often complemented by wood trim to create a functional yet inviting space.