J/110 Information, Review, Specs

The J/110 entered production in 1995 and continued until 1997, evolving from the successful designs of the J/34C and J/35C. This period saw J Boats, under the continued guidance of the Johnstone family, solidifying its reputation for creating "accessible performers"—yachts competitive enough for racing but also user-friendly for family cruising. The J/110, like other J Boats of its era, featured an efficient hull form and a balanced rig, hallmarks of the in-house design approach championed by Rod Johnstone. While no significant MkI or MkII variations were widely noted during its relatively short production run, the J/110 aimed to capture the essence of a performance-oriented cruiser in a manageable 36-foot package.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The J/110's design brief prioritized a rewarding sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.13, she is well-powered and suggests good performance in lighter air conditions, allowing her to accelerate quickly and maintain speed even when the wind softens. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 36.8% indicates a respectable level of initial stability, enabling her to stand up to a breeze without excessive heel, though not as stiff as some dedicated offshore racers. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at approximately 182.7, positions the J/110 firmly in the lighter, more performance-oriented category of cruisers, rather than a heavy, traditional displacement boat.

Sailors often describe the J/110 as a well-balanced and responsive yacht, reflecting J Boats' commitment to creating boats that are a joy to helm. Her fractional sloop rig, combined with a spade rudder and bulb keel, contributes to her agility and close-winded performance. The rig is designed to accommodate a large asymmetrical spinnaker, ensuring strong downwind performance.

Accommodations and Layout

Below decks, the J/110 provides a practical and comfortable interior, designed with both racing crew and cruising couples in mind. The layout typically features two private cabins, offering ample sleeping arrangements. The J/110 boasts generous storage throughout, including a notably large cockpit locker on the port side which can also be accessed from the main cabin through a bulkhead. While specific headroom figures are not available, J Boats generally emphasizes functional layouts with quality finishes. The interior design typically balances the need for offshore functionality with comfortable cruising amenities, often featuring a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, which was characteristic of J Boats during this production era. The arrangement includes a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the J/110 for its versatility, often describing it as an excellent "compromise boat" for those seeking a balance between racing prowess and cruising comfort. Its ease of handling is a recurring positive, making it suitable for short-handed sailing or family outings. The robust construction, a hallmark of J Boats, is also a commonly cited strength, contributing to the boat's longevity and performance over time. While specific common problems are not widely detailed, the active J/Boat owner community and various online forums provide a platform for current owners to share experiences and offer advice on maintenance or upgrades.