Elvstrom 6.5 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Elvstrom 6.5 entered production in 1974, with its manufacturing continuing until 1978. Its design emerged from the collaboration between Paul Elvström, a celebrated Olympic medalist and innovator in sail design, and Jan Kjærulff. This partnership instilled a clear performance-oriented philosophy into the boat's creation. A particularly notable aspect of its design is its sailplan, which reportedly mirrors that of the International Soling, a highly competitive one-design keelboat, hinting at the Elvstrom 6.5's potential for spirited sailing.

The construction was undertaken by Jouët, a French builder with a legacy spanning back to 1925, renowned for its commitment to crafting seaworthy and well-designed vessels. During the Elvstrom 6.5's production era, Jouët had already seamlessly transitioned from traditional wooden boat building to fiberglass construction, a material that revolutionized the industry and allowed for more efficient production methods. Jouët's ethos during this period emphasized producing robust and dependable yachts, a characteristic evident in the fiberglass solid hull and deck of the Elvstrom 6.5. While the primary version featured a fin keel with a maximum draft of 4.42 feet, variations, including a shallow-draft version, were also produced, and the boat was even built under license in Spain.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 21 feet and a waterline length of nearly 18 feet, the Elvstrom 6.5 is designed for nimble performance. Its fin keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to responsive handling and direct steering. The most telling indicator of its sailing characteristics is its reported shared sailplan with the International Soling. This connection suggests that the Elvstrom 6.5 is a lively performer, capable of standing up to a breeze and offering a rewarding experience for sailors who appreciate a boat that responds readily to sail trim and helm input. With a theoretical hull speed of 5.67 knots, it is well-suited for coastal cruising, day sailing, and club racing.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Elvstrom 6.5's accommodations are designed for efficiency and simplicity, catering primarily to weekend excursions or day sails rather than extended voyages. While specific detailed layouts vary and information is limited, boats of this size typically feature a basic interior with V-berth sleeping arrangements in the bow, a small main cabin area that might include basic seating or a compact galley space, and often a marine head. The emphasis is on maximizing usable space within its modest dimensions, providing essential amenities for short stays aboard.