Flying Tiger 7.5 Information, Review, Specs

The Flying Tiger 7.5 began production in 2009, emerging as a smaller, lighter derivative of the successful Flying Tiger 10 [6,. Robert Perry's design philosophy for the Flying Tiger series aimed to create an affordable, high-performance sportboat, making racing and spirited sailing more accessible. Xiamen Hansheng Yacht Building Co. Ltd., the builder, brought this vision to life. Established in 1984, Hansheng has built a reputation for quality construction and a capability to meet the exacting specifications of international designers. Their expertise in robust hull construction and precision manufacturing was crucial in realizing the performance-oriented goals of the Flying Tiger 7.5. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not widely documented for the 7.5, its design consistently emphasizes a lifting keel with a bulb and a transom-hung rudder, optimizing it for speed and ease of transport [2,.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to its sportboat designation, the Flying Tiger 7.5 is engineered for high performance and agile handling. With a length overall of 24.6 feet and a waterline length of 23.16 feet, it is a compact yet potent vessel. Owners and reviewers often describe it as a "very stable platform" that offers a thrilling sailing experience, even capable of being sailed singlehanded. Its performance characteristics are frequently compared favorably to other popular sportboats, with some noting it as faster and more stable than models like the J/70. The design, featuring a lifting keel with a bulb and a transom-hung rudder, contributes to its responsive feel and upwind ability [2,. While generally praised for its exhilarating performance, some anecdotal reports suggest that its PHRF rating might be challenging in light wind conditions. Overall, the Flying Tiger 7.5 is lauded as a fun boat, well-suited for daysails and competitive PHRF events.

Accommodations and Layout

Consistent with its primary role as a performance sportboat, the Flying Tiger 7.5 features a minimalist interior designed for functionality rather than extensive cruising comfort. It is often described as having "really no interior" in the traditional sense, though it does offer more than some ultra-light competitors. The cabin typically includes two berths, situated port and starboard, providing basic sleeping arrangements for overnight stays or quick rests. However, the interior is not designed for comfortable long-term habitation, focusing instead on lightweight construction and maximizing performance. The emphasis is clearly on the sailing experience, with the interior serving a utilitarian purpose for racers and dedicated daysailers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold a positive view of the Flying Tiger 7.5, frequently highlighting its fun-to-sail nature and robust performance. Many praise its stability and ease of handling, making it suitable for both competitive racing and enjoyable daysails. The ability to singlehand the boat is a recurring positive point, appealing to sailors who enjoy solo excursions or prefer less crew. While its performance is a significant draw, some owners have noted that the boat can face challenges with its PHRF rating, particularly in lighter wind conditions. Despite the limited interior amenities, the overall sentiment points to a well-built sportboat that delivers on its promise of an exciting and engaging sailing experience.