Flirt (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Flirt began its production run in 1976 and was built by Jeanneau in France until 1984, with an impressive 1,700 hulls completed during that period. Designed by the in-house Jeanneau Design Office, the Flirt emerged during a significant era for the French shipyard, which had embraced fiberglass construction early on and found substantial success with its earlier sailboat, the Sangria. Jeanneau, founded by Henri Jeanneau in 1957, consistently prioritized innovation and quality, moving swiftly from wooden boats to fiberglass hulls by 1958. This manufacturing ethos during the 1970s focused on creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts and comfortable amenities, even in smaller designs.

A key aspect of the Flirt's design was its availability in two primary configurations: a fixed fin keel version and a more versatile keel/centerboard version. While the fin keel model features a maximum draft of 3.28 feet, the keel/centerboard variant offers a variable draft ranging from 1.97 feet with the board up to 4.10 feet when fully extended, significantly enhancing its ability to access shallower waters and be more easily trailerable.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Jeanneau Flirt is noted for its enjoyable sailing performance and stable handling. Owners and reviewers frequently praise its "excellent sailing characteristics from wind force 2-3" and "very good marine behavior," making it a responsive and predictable boat in light to moderate conditions. Its hull design, coupled with a transom-hung rudder, contributes to its nimble feel and ease of control. The Flirt's robust structure and inherent stability are frequently highlighted, providing confidence to sailors even when the wind picks up.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jeanneau Flirt is designed for efficiency and practicality, typical of pocket cruisers of its era. While exact headroom details are not specified, its overall length of just under 20 feet indicates a compact cabin that likely does not offer standing headroom. The layout typically features a forward V-berth for sleeping and convertible settees in the main salon area, allowing for sleeping arrangements for up to four people, albeit in a cozy environment. The focus of the interior is on providing essential comforts for weekend trips and coastal cruising. As part of Jeanneau's general design philosophy, efforts would have been made to maximize the utility of the limited space, incorporating clever storage solutions and a functional, if basic, living area suitable for short stays.