Bi-Loup 102 Information, Review, Specs

The Bi-Loup 102, a product of Wrighton Yachts, entered production in 1990 and saw a total of 30 units built before its conclusion in 2003. Wrighton Yachts, established in 1978, has consistently focused on creating robust and accessible twin-keel sailboats, a design ethos championed by early designer Richard Wrighton. The primary goal behind the Bi-Loup series, including the 102, was to offer cruisers enhanced stability, a significantly reduced draft, and the practical capability to sit upright on the seabed, a considerable advantage for European coastal exploration. This manufacturing philosophy prioritized comfort and safety for family sailing over outright speed, 4]. While the builder article mentions the Bi-Loup 10 was refined into the Bi-Loup 10.2, the Bi-Loup 102 is largely considered a distinct model, sharing the builder's core design principles, 5].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bi-Loup 102 exhibits characteristics of a capable and stable cruising vessel, owing to its carefully balanced design ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 20.61, the Bi-Loup 102 suggests a boat that can perform capably in lighter winds without being excessively powered in heavier conditions, providing a good balance for a cruiser. Its ballast to displacement ratio, an impressive 0.519, indicates very high stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at around 220, places it in the medium displacement category, suggesting a solid, sea-kindly hull without being overly heavy, allowing for reasonable cruising speeds.

Owners frequently describe Wrighton boats as "useful and solid cruisers". The twin-keel configuration, a hallmark of Wrighton's design, is central to the Bi-Loup 102's handling characteristics, providing exceptional directional stability and allowing the boat to track well. This design also facilitates confident navigation in shallow waters and the unique ability to safely dry out, expanding cruising grounds significantly. While outright speed is not the primary focus of these monohulls, the Bi-Loup 102 prioritizes comfortable and secure passage-making.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bi-Loup 102 is designed to maximize comfort and livability, a testament to Wrighton Yachts' focus on family cruising. The boat offers a comfortable maximum headroom of 6.23 feet (1.90 meters), which contributes to a spacious feel below deck. A distinctive feature of the Bi-Loup 102's classic interior layout is the elevated galley and chart table, with the main saloon positioned a step lower. This split-level design often enhances natural light and provides better visibility from the raised areas, while the sunken saloon creates a cozy and defined living space. While specific details on materials and finish are not consistently available, Wrighton's general ethos aims for quality construction and refined interiors, with an aspiration for standards "close to the Hallberg-Rassy concept". The layout typically includes conventional cruising amenities such as V-berth forward, a head, a comfortable saloon, and aft berths, all designed to facilitate comfortable extended stays onboard.