Farr 7500 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Farr 7500, officially Farr Design #76, began production in 1979. Bruce Farr, renowned for his high-performance designs, approached the 7500 with a philosophy that prioritized dynamic sailing characteristics, drawing inspiration from Australian skiffs and marking a significant shift in yacht design. The specific goal for the 7500 was to create a boat that catered to the burgeoning "luxury" trailerable sailing market, offering small keel boat owners the flexibility to avoid mooring constraints. During this era, Sea Nymph Boats Ltd. maintained a reputation for well-engineered vessels, often collaborating with esteemed naval architects like Farr, reflecting their commitment to diverse and high-quality production. While the standard model featured a swing keel for ease of trailering, a fixed keel version was also produced in very limited numbers, indicating some design flexibility. The deck design thoughtfully incorporated a 'poptop' cabin, a sloping companionway with removable side panels, and a forward hatch, enhancing usability and access.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Farr 7500's design ratios underscore its performance pedigree. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 22.58, the boat exhibits excellent light-air performance, suggesting it is lively and responsive even in lighter breezes. Its Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of around 104.9 further classifies it as a relatively light and performance-oriented design for its size. The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of approximately 30.4% provides adequate stability for its intended use as a trailer sailer, allowing it to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind.

Anecdotal evidence from sailors frequently highlights the Farr 7500's capable handling and good balance. It is often described as a "high-performance racer" within its class and praised for its sailing prowess. The boat is known to handle well, even capable of managing a spinnaker in winds gusting up to 25 knots. Owners consistently report that it sails effectively, making it a competitive and enjoyable vessel on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of just under 25 feet overall, the Farr 7500 was designed with practical and comfortable accommodations in mind, particularly for a trailer sailer. The interior arrangement typically features a full built-in galley positioned to port, offering essential amenities for extended trips. Opposite, to starboard, is a dinette capable of seating up to six people, providing a communal space for meals and relaxation. The design thoughtfully incorporates sleeping accommodations for five adults, and potentially six, maximizing the use of space. A private forward cabin includes a fully enclosed head, a significant amenity for a boat of this size. A clever design feature is the low keel case, which avoids restricting the interior layout and often supports the dinette table. The interior liners were produced from official Bruce Farr Design No. 76 moulds, ensuring a consistent and functional cabin layout. The 'poptop' companionway further enhances ventilation and headroom when at anchor or dockside.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Farr 7500 generally hold their boats in high regard, frequently commending its dual capabilities as a "great cruiser racer." The boat is consistently praised for its strong sailing performance, often being cited as "one of the fastest trailer yachts" of its era. This reputation for speed, combined with its trailerable nature, has made it a popular choice for sailors who enjoy exploring different waterways. Many owners have successfully used their Farr 7500s for coastal cruising, undertaking trips to destinations such as Rotto and Shark Bay. The enduring popularity of the model is supported by an active owner's association, fostering a community around these well-regarded yachts. While the design is now older, and its performance might not be "neck-snapping" compared to modern, highly specialized boats, owners still attest to its enjoyable and capable sailing characteristics. A minor, recurring issue noted by some owners involves maintenance related to the centreplate mechanism, such as a broken winch wire.