Jouët 760 Information, Review, Specs

The Jouët 760 emerged during a period of transition for the venerable French builder, Jouët. While the company's roots traced back to traditional wooden boat construction, the 1970s saw a pivotal shift towards fiberglass, a material that revolutionized boat building by enabling more efficient production. The Jouët 760, with its fiberglass hull and deck, is a product of this era, designed between 1982 and 1986. During this time, Jouët operated as a subsidiary of Yachting France, a consolidation driven by the challenging economic climate affecting the recreational boat building industry.

The design of the Jouët 760 was entrusted to Philippe Briand, a naval architect celebrated for his ability to craft elegant yachts that offer balanced performance. Briand's design philosophy often prioritized both beauty and functional sailing characteristics. The 760 shared similarities with the Jouët 750, and was offered with a fixed fin keel or, as an option, a keel/centerboard configuration, providing flexibility for different sailing grounds. Approximately 150 units of the Jouët 760 were built, cementing its place as a popular model from Jouët's fiberglass production era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Designed with a masthead sloop rig and a transom-hung rudder, the Jouët 760 exhibits characteristics well-suited for its role as a coastal cruiser. With its moderate displacement, the boat offers a stable and comfortable motion in average conditions. Owners have frequently described the Jouët 760 as handling "like a dinghy," praising its responsiveness and ease of control.

While she can be "a bit tender" in stronger winds, judicious reefing allows the boat to stand up well to the breeze, maintaining its composure. Her design, particularly in the stern, allows her to "easily go 'surfing'" downwind, indicating a surprisingly spirited performance in suitable conditions. The Jouët 760 features a good ballast-to-displacement ratio, contributing to its stability and stiffness under sail. However, some observations suggest it might be "slightly under powered" in very light air, and its moderate weight can lead to it getting "slammed a lot in rough seas" when motoring into a chop.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jouët 760 is designed to maximize comfort and utility within its compact footprint, making it suitable for weekend trips and extended coastal cruising. The saloon offers a reasonable 5 feet 10 inches of headroom. The layout typically features sleeping for five to six individuals across two cabins.

Forward, there is a comfortable double V-berth, complete with storage space underneath. While specific details can vary between individual boats, the general arrangement would include a main saloon area, often with settees that convert into additional berths, a compact galley for meal preparation, and an enclosed head compartment. The interior finish, like many boats of its era, often features teak, contributing to a warm and classic ambiance. Owners frequently highlight the boat's "warm and comfortable" living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jouët 760 generally praise its capabilities as a capable and enjoyable sailing vessel. Many appreciate its lively handling characteristics, often comparing its responsiveness to that of a dinghy. The boat is frequently noted for providing "exceptional level of comfort and convenience" for its size, making it well-suited for couples or small families embarking on coastal voyages. Its robust construction and good value are also commonly cited strengths.

However, some owners acknowledge that the boat can be "a bit tender" in heavy air, necessitating timely reefing to maintain comfortable sailing angles. Furthermore, while generally seaworthy, its relatively light displacement can lead to a less comfortable motion when motoring directly into steep seas. Information regarding the Jouët 760 can be somewhat "hard to come by" due to the builder's evolution and the passage of time, which can present a challenge for new owners seeking detailed insights or specific advice.