Esse 990 Information, Review, Specs

The Esse 990's genesis is rooted in the successful design philosophy that first brought the Esse 850 to prominence. As the "older sister" to the Esse 850, the 990 benefited from the established collaboration between Josef Schuchter, founder of Esseboats, and Umberto Felci, who is celebrated for his ability to blend performance with aesthetic appeal. The production began in 2007, continuing Esseboats' commitment to modern composite construction, utilizing fiberglass for a hard hull and a light core to ensure both durability and performance. This manufacturing ethos emphasizes creating yachts that are fast, elegant, and exceptionally easy to sail, catering to small crews or even solo sailors. The design of the Esse 990 notably offers an alternative to the perceived complexity of more traditional sloop-rigged sailboats, streamlining the sailing experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Esse 990 is a true performance-oriented vessel, a characteristic underscored by its impressive design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 40.19, a remarkably high figure, the Esse 990 is engineered for exceptional performance in light air, allowing it to glide effortlessly even in the softest breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.477 suggests a high degree of stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to more wind and maintain its composure in challenging conditions. Furthermore, a very low Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 73.89 firmly places the Esse 990 in the category of lightweight, performance-focused boats. Wikipedia from previous search

Anecdotal reports confirm that the Esse 990 exhibits plenty of temperament, even in light wind conditions, thanks to its substantial sail plan. It is described as a "sporty high-end daysailor" and a "racing sportboat" designed for a crew of four. 1, Wikipedia from previous search The inclusion of a self-tacking jib further contributes to its reputation for ease of handling, making it accessible for enjoyable day sailing. Wikipedia from previous search

Accommodations and Layout

Consistent with its identity as a high-performance daysailer, the Esse 990 features a minimalist yet thoughtfully designed interior. While specific headroom figures are not widely publicized, reviews indicate the presence of one guest cabin, providing basic overnighting capabilities. The interior aesthetics are characterized by "white lacquered structural interiors left in full view" and details such as a "teak deck slightly recessed in the composite," highlighting a blend of high-quality materials and a clean, modern finish that underscores its performance-oriented design. The focus remains on functional spaces for day trips and regattas rather than extensive cruising accommodations, reflecting its primary purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Esse 990 frequently praise its solid construction and exhilarating sailing characteristics. The brand fosters a strong and active owner community, with many participating in events like the annual Esseboats Cup regattas, highlighting a shared enthusiasm for the boat's performance and design. Owners consistently provide enthusiastic feedback, underscoring the joy and freedom derived from solo or small-crew adventures on an Esseboat. However, one individual owner on a sailing forum noted concerns regarding build quality, citing issues with components such as the furler and keel. This suggests that while the overall owner experience tends to be positive regarding the boat's sailing prowess and community, individual experiences with specific components may vary.