Espace 990 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Jeanneau Espace 990 was introduced in 1985 and remained in production until 1989, a period during which Jeanneau, under various corporate structures including a stint under US ownership, continued to solidify its position in the global sailboat market. The design was penned by Philippe Briand, a renowned naval architect who has been a long-standing collaborator with Jeanneau, contributing to many of their iconic models. Briand's design philosophy for the Espace 990 aimed to deliver a modern cruising sailboat characterized by an aesthetic silhouette, fine lines, and a hull capable of both stability and speed.

During this era, Jeanneau was well-established for its early adoption of fiberglass in hull construction, a technique that allowed for efficient mass production and consistent quality. The Espace 990 benefited from this expertise, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and deck. While primarily offered with a fin keel and spade rudder, a keel/centerboard version was also available, offering versatility for different cruising grounds. Furthermore, a significant variation in the model line included a "Decksaloon" version, providing enhanced interior light and views, catering to those seeking even greater onboard comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jeanneau Espace 990 is lauded for its robust construction and agreeable sailing characteristics, making it a joy to handle for cruisers. With a length overall of just under 32.5 feet and a waterline length of nearly 27 feet, she presents a moderate displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 241. This suggests a balanced design that offers a good blend of speed and comfort, sitting firmly in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, capable of respectable passage-making without sacrificing onboard amenity.

The boat's sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at around 14.6, indicates a conservative sail plan, typical for a dedicated cruiser of its era. This ratio suggests that while the Espace 990 may not be a high-performance light-air racer, it is well-suited for comfortable cruising, providing manageable power in a variety of wind conditions. Complementing this, a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 44% contributes significantly to the boat's inherent stiffness and stability. This substantial ballast allows the Espace 990 to stand up to a good breeze, offering a secure and comfortable motion even in choppier seas. Owners frequently appreciate its quiet stability and ease of handling, confirming its design as a reliable and comfortable cruising platform. The boat is also noted to have plenty of engine power, ensuring confident motoring into chop or against strong currents.

Accommodations and Layout

The "Espace" in its name, meaning "Space" in French, aptly reflects the interior philosophy of the Jeanneau Espace 990. Designed to be a liveable boat, it emphasizes clever layouts and comfortable amenities, aiming to provide ample room for its size. The interior is arranged to comfortably accommodate up to six people, featuring double cabins. While specific headroom details are not widely documented, the focus on comfort and livability for a 32-foot vessel typically implies adequate standing room in key areas.

Common layouts for cruising boats of this size often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, a dedicated head compartment, and typically a quarter berth or aft cabin. The emphasis on "double cabins" in the Espace 990 suggests a well-configured sleeping arrangement, likely including a forward V-berth and a private aft cabin. Owners consistently praise the spaciousness and comfort of the interior, contributing to the boat's appeal as a versatile cruising platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Espace 990 generally hold the model in high regard, frequently praising its robust construction, ease of handling, and overall comfort. Many value it as a spacious and comfortable vessel that provides an enjoyable sailing experience. Discussions among owners often highlight the boat's solid build quality, a hallmark of Jeanneau during its production era. While no widespread or recurring "major issues" are commonly reported in owner forums, the collective sentiment emphasizes the Espace 990's reliability and suitability for cruising. The active community of Jeanneau owners further attests to the enduring appeal and support for this classic cruising sailboat.