Focus 800 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Focus 800 emerged from Sobusiak Yacht Yard, a company founded in 2004 by Mariusz Sobusiak with a vision to create yachts that combine racing thrill with family cruising practicality. Production of the Focus 800 began in 2010, marking a significant offering in their expanding "Focus" line. The shipyard's design philosophy, evident in the Focus 800, prioritizes a harmonious blend of exhilarating sailing characteristics with practical comfort for extended voyages. A key innovation frequently highlighted in their designs, and a defining feature of the Focus 800, is the inclusion of a lifting keel. This allows access to shallower waters, significantly expanding cruising grounds. Constructed primarily from durable fiberglass, the Focus 800 reflects Sobusiak Yacht Yard's commitment to robust build quality and modern construction techniques. The builder describes the Focus 800 as a "stunning cruiser" designed to be fast, comfortable, and safe, capable of accommodating up to six people. The shipyard's meticulous approach extends to components, ensuring only the finest materials are integrated into their yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While general performance ratios are typically used to characterize larger vessels, the Focus 800, at 26.25 feet (8 meters) overall, presents its capabilities through anecdotal performance rather than strict numerical interpretation of ratios. This size range often prioritizes nimble handling and responsive feel over theoretical comparisons. Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Focus 800 for its superb sailing characteristics, describing it as comfortable, stable, and remarkably easy to handle, even for a single-hander. Its design aims for optimal sailing performance, with some versions featuring a carbon fibre mast. The boat is recognized for its ability to be both fast and comfortable, appealing to those seeking ultimate sailing pleasure in cruising or racing scenarios. The lifting keel design not only enhances shallow-water access but also contributes to its versatility, making it a capable performer in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The Focus 800 is designed to offer surprising interior volume for its size, making it a comfortable cruiser. It can comfortably accommodate up to six people. Online resources and builder descriptions highlight a practical interior arrangement, often featuring a layout suitable for family cruising. The interior typically includes a caboose (galley) and sleeping arrangements that can extend to a four-cabin, six-berth configuration. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design emphasizes maximizing living space within its powerful hull volume, allowing for the accommodations and gear associated with a modern performance cruising boat. Some versions, like the "Focus 800 Green," are noted to have approximately 180 cm (5.9 ft) of headroom. The finish quality generally reflects the builder's commitment to using fine components, suggesting a practical yet well-appointed interior suitable for both racing crews and cruising families.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Focus 800 frequently commend its solid construction and versatile nature, appreciating its dual capability as a performance racer and a comfortable family cruiser. The ease of single-handed operation is a recurring positive, making it an attractive option for sailors who often sail alone or with minimal crew. The lifting keel is consistently highlighted as a significant advantage, providing unparalleled access to shallow anchorages and cruising grounds that would be inaccessible to fixed-keel boats. While specific common weaknesses are not widely reported in aggregated public forums, the consistent praise for its stability and comfort in varied conditions suggests a well-regarded design among its owners.