Ofcet 6.50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Chantier Ofcet, founded in La Rochelle, France, by Yann Dubé in 2014, quickly established itself with a clear focus on "racing and fast cruising sailboats." The shipyard prioritized innovative and efficient designs, emphasizing lightweight, high-performance construction. The Ofcet 6.50, their inaugural and arguably most iconic model, began production in 2015 and continued until 2019. Its creation marked a significant entry for Chantier Ofcet into the competitive Mini Transat market, a testament to their rapid development and market acceptance.

The design of the Ofcet 6.50 was entrusted to Etienne Bertrand, a naval architect widely recognized for his expertise in Mini class designs. Bertrand's philosophy centered on creating boats optimized for single-handed offshore racing, following several successful prototypes before the Ofcet 6.50. The model was specifically conceived as a "production Mini," meaning it adhered to the stringent rules of the Mini Transat series while offering a standardized, class-approved design. This approach aimed to deliver competitive performance to a broader range of sailors aspiring to tackle the challenging transatlantic race. The boat's construction utilized fiberglass with a foam core for both hull and deck, ensuring a strong yet lightweight structure.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ofcet 6.50 is undeniably a performance-oriented vessel, purpose-built for speed and agility in offshore conditions. Its design, featuring a fractional sloop rig, a bulb keel, and twin rudders, is indicative of a boat optimized for control and efficiency. The twin rudders are a common feature on high-performance offshore boats of this size, providing enhanced steering authority, especially when heeled or at high speeds. With a length overall of 21.33 feet and a displacement of 2205 lbs, the boat is remarkably light for its generous sail plan, which includes a reported total sail area of 446 sq ft.

The true testament to the Ofcet 6.50's capabilities lies in its racing pedigree. The model quickly gained acclaim in the Mini Transat fleet, with an Ofcet 6.50 famously securing a victory in the series division of the race. This success underscores its robust construction, speed, and exceptional handling characteristics, making it a favorite among ambitious short-handed sailors. Owners and reviewers often describe Mini 6.50 class boats as demanding but rewarding to sail, requiring "calm, confident boat control". Its ability to perform well in varying sea states and wind conditions is paramount for its intended use as an offshore racer.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary function as a Mini Transat racer, the interior accommodations of the Ofcet 6.50 are designed for functionality and weight savings rather than extensive comfort or luxury. The compact nature of a 21-foot offshore racing boat means that interior volume is maximized for essential living and navigation functions during demanding races.

Typical for the Mini 6.50 class, the Ofcet 6.50's interior likely features a basic layout comprising a forward V-berth or pipe berths for sleeping, a compact navigation station, and minimal galley facilities. Storage would be optimized for lightweight gear and provisions, strategically placed to maintain the boat's balance. Headroom, while not extensively documented for this specific model, is generally limited on boats of this size and class, where the focus is on a low center of gravity and efficient hull form. The overall finish would prioritize durability and ease of maintenance over opulent materials, aligning with the rigorous demands of offshore racing.