J/111 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The J/111 emerged in 2010, building upon J/Boats' long-standing tradition of crafting competitive and easy-to-handle sailboats since their inception in 1977. The company, founded by Rod and Bob Johnstone, gained a global reputation for its commitment to the one-design philosophy, fostering active racing communities. The design goals for the J/111 centered on creating a boat that was not only fast and offshore-capable but also simple to sail and maintain, reflecting a "less time at the dock, more time on the water" ethos. This model, like many J/Boats, was designed internally by the Johnstone team, ensuring a consistent brand aesthetic and performance profile. The hull construction utilizes solid fiberglass, a testament to J/Boats' reputation for robust construction often facilitated by their long-term partnership with TPI Composites for US production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 36.42 feet and a waterline length of 32.71 feet, the J/111 features a sleek, efficient hull form. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.89 indicates strong light-air performance, allowing it to accelerate quickly even in minimal breeze. The Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.375 suggests a balanced level of stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to a good amount of wind without becoming overly tender. Weighing 9,370 pounds, its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 111.85 firmly places it in the lighter, more performance-oriented category of yachts, contributing to its impressive hull speed of 7.66 knots. The J/111 features a deep 7.18-foot bulb keel and a spade rudder, enhancing its upwind performance and responsiveness.

Sailors consistently describe the J/111 as an easy-to-handle sailboat that excels at slicing to windward at speeds often exceeding 7 knots and reaching double-digit speeds downwind. Its balanced rig and responsive steering contribute to a rewarding sailing experience. While known for its speed, the J/111 is also considered a comfortable boat to sail, even capable of offshore passages, though its primary comfort zone remains racing and shorter cruises. Some anecdotal accounts suggest the boat can be "tippy" when reaching in strong winds, which may require careful management of downwind sails.

Accommodations and Layout

While optimized for performance, the J/111 offers essential amenities below deck for comfortable overnight stays and short cruises. The interior features an open main cabin layout, providing a functional space despite its primary racing focus. Reviews often highlight the basic yet practical interior, which includes typical arrangements like a V-berth forward, a head, a salon area, and a galley. The finish quality is generally described as robust and functional rather than luxurious, aligning with J/Boats' emphasis on performance and practicality. Details on materials often point to a blend of fiberglass and some wood trim, characteristic of J/Boats of its era. Storage is adequate for weekending, and ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the J/111 frequently praise its solid construction and exhilarating performance, noting its ability to be competitive on the racecourse while still being manageable for a couple or small crew. The boat's ease of handling and quick acceleration are commonly cited as major strengths, contributing to its popularity as a one-design class. The J/111's versatility as both a capable racer and a comfortable weekender is a recurring theme in owner feedback. While general issues are not widely reported, some owners might note the importance of proper fuel maintenance to avoid common engine troubles. The robust J/Boats owner community also provides significant support and camaraderie.