Tofinou 9.7 Information, Review, Specs

The Tofinou 9.7 made its debut in 2019, continuing Latitude 46's celebrated lineage of "neo-retro" yachts. The shipyard, founded by Philippe Joubert in 1987, has consistently aimed to marry the aesthetic grace of traditional boats with contemporary construction and performance. For the 9.7, Latitude 46 collaborated with naval architects Michele Molino and Giorgio Angelini, while the deck and cockpit design saw a unique contribution from the Peugeot Design Lab. This partnership aimed to integrate modern aesthetics while respecting the distinctive Tofinou brand identity.

Latitude 46's manufacturing ethos, prevalent during the 9.7's inception, involves utilizing Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) for the hull, often with a PVC foam core for structural integrity, while adorning interiors and decks with generous amounts of teak and mahogany, creating a classic yacht aesthetic with modern durability. The Tofinou 9.7 is offered with significant variations to cater to different sailing needs, including options for a single rudder and a fixed keel with a deep draft of 6.89 feet (2m), or a twin-rudder configuration paired with a retractable keel that allows for a variable draft between 2.95 feet (1.22m) and 6.56 feet (2m). These options make the Tofinou 9.7 adaptable for diverse sailing grounds, including shallow tidal ports.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tofinou 9.7 is engineered for spirited sailing, combining a relatively light displacement with a generous sail plan, making it an agile and responsive boat. With a length overall of just over 32 feet and a waterline length of 30.02 feet, its hull form contributes to its impressive speed and handling. The sailboat's Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, calculated at approximately 27.82, indicates a boat that is very powerful for its weight, promising excellent performance, especially in lighter winds. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 187.44 further categorizes it as a lighter, performance-oriented cruiser that is easily driven through the water.

Qualitative descriptions from reviews highlight the Tofinou 9.7's strong sailing performance. It is capable of achieving upwind speeds between 6 and 7 knots in moderate breezes of 10 to 12 knots. The boat is praised for its ease of handling and balance, making it well-suited for short-handed sailing or even solo excursions. Its modern hull form and high ballast ratio contribute to good form stability, allowing it to stand up well to the wind. Owners and reviewers frequently commend its "spirited performance" and the "sheer joy of sailing" that is characteristic of the Tofinou line.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its primary role as an elegant day sailer, the Tofinou 9.7 offers a functional and chic interior designed for comfortable weekend cruising. The cabin features a minimalist yet stylish layout, typically configured with four berths. This usually includes a double forward cabin and two lateral berths within the main salon area. The interior design, though limited in terms of standing headroom, emphasizes an open-plan layout that allows for ease of movement and a feeling of spaciousness for a boat of its size.

The finish quality is consistent with Latitude 46's reputation for high-end craftsmanship, incorporating varnished mahogany for the cabin top and rich teak throughout, evoking a classic yachting ambiance. While storage is optimized, it aligns with the boat's day-sailing and weekender purpose rather than extensive offshore cruising. The design ensures that essential amenities are present for comfortable nights on board.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Tofinou yachts, including the 9.7, consistently express appreciation for the brand's commitment to quality, elegant design, and spirited sailing performance. The Tofinou 9.7 is particularly lauded for its beautiful "neo-retro" styling, which stands out in any marina. Many owners are drawn to its ability to be sailed short-handed, making it an ideal choice for those who value simplicity and direct connection with the sailing experience. The solid construction and meticulous fit and finish are frequently highlighted as strengths, reflecting Latitude 46's reputation for crafting high-end vessels. While specific common problems for the 9.7 are not widely documented, the general sentiment among Tofinou owners points to a shared appreciation for the timeless marine design and exquisite detailing, fostering a sense of camaraderie within the brand's community.