Esprit DU Vent Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Esprit du Vent in 1985 marked a notable collaboration for New Japan Yacht Co. Ltd., a company that has quietly contributed to the Japanese marine industry since its founding in 1969 in Shizuoka, Japan. While detailed specifics about the initial vision for the Esprit du Vent are not widely publicized, the involvement of Jean Marie Finot (Groupe Finot) implies a design philosophy centered on efficiency and sailing prowess, a hallmark of Finot's prolific career. New Japan Yacht Co. Ltd. has developed a reputation for producing a range of distinct sailboat models, suggesting an ethos of offering diverse sailing experiences through elegant and practical cruising designs. Later iterations, such as the "Esprit du Vent II," indicate continued development of the model over time. The vessel features a fin keel and spade rudder, classic elements of performance-oriented designs of its era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Esprit du Vent's design ratios paint a clear picture of her intended performance characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 25.78, she is well-equipped to perform admirably in lighter winds, suggesting quick acceleration and responsiveness. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 43.86% is notably high for a boat of her size and era, indicating a significant amount of ballast relative to her overall weight. This contributes to excellent stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze and carry her canvas effectively, providing a stable and comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of 188.18 places the Esprit du Vent firmly in the lighter, more performance-oriented category. This combination of a generous sail plan, ample ballast, and a relatively light displacement suggests a lively and engaging sailing experience, capable of competitive performance while still maintaining the attributes of a comfortable cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior schematics and extensive reviews describing the accommodations of the Esprit du Vent are not widely available in public records, typical layouts for a 29-foot sailboat from the mid-1980s would generally feature a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, and a galley area. Given her design as a performance cruiser, the interior would likely prioritize functionality and efficient use of space over opulent finishes. The specific maximum headroom is not publicly detailed in available specifications. Generally, boats of this size from the period would offer adequate, though not standing, headroom throughout most of the cabin. Storage solutions would typically include lockers beneath berths and shelves along the hull.

Owner's Perspectives

Comprehensive collective owner's perspectives on the Esprit du Vent are not extensively documented in public forums or review sites. Information regarding common strengths, weaknesses, or recurring maintenance issues based on widespread owner feedback is limited. However, like many vessels of her vintage, potential owners would typically look for the condition of her fiberglass hull and deck, inspect original fittings for any signs of wear or leaks, and assess the state of her engine and rigging, which are standard considerations for any well-maintained sailboat from this production era.