Sailing Performance & Handling
The Blue Djinn is engineered for stability and ease of use rather than raw racing speed, yet its sailing characteristics are surprisingly sprightly for a boat with a displacement of approximately 950 kg. With a sail area of roughly 22 square meters (split between a 13m² mainsail and a 9m² furling genoa), the boat maintains a respectable sail area-to-displacement ratio that ensures it remains responsive in light to moderate airs. Because it is an integral centerboarder, the draft varies significantly from a mere 0.25 meters with the board up to 1.10 meters when fully deployed. This versatility allows sailors to tuck into estuaries and coves that are inaccessible to fixed-keel yachts.
Handling is characterized by a high degree of forgiveness. The hull’s generous beam of 2.37 meters provides significant initial stability, which is essential for a family cruiser of this size. Under sail, the boat tracks well, though like many centerboarders, it exhibits a degree of leeway when hard-pressed upwind compared to a deep-finned yacht. The rudder is kick-up, matching the shallow-draft capability of the hull. In heavier conditions, the Blue Djinn is known for its predictable behavior, though the lack of a heavy external bulb means that reefing early is rewarded with a flatter, more comfortable ride.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel measuring just 20 feet, the Blue Djinn offers a remarkably functional interior. The cabin is designed with a "four-berth" layout, consisting of a double V-berth forward and two single lateral berths that extend under the cockpit seats. This arrangement is tight but efficient, utilizing almost every square inch for storage or sleeping. The absence of a fixed bulkhead between the forward berth and the main salon creates an open, airy feel that mitigates the claustrophobia common in small cruisers.
The interior is minimalist, featuring molded fiberglass liners that are easy to clean—a practical choice for a boat meant to be used for "nautical camping." Most units come equipped with a small, sliding galley block that houses a single-burner stove and a sink, though these are often treated as auxiliary features for weekend trips. Headroom is limited, as is expected for a transportable boat of this size, but the large companionway hatch and lateral windows provide sufficient natural light. B2 Marine also produced the Djinn 7, a larger 7.20-meter sibling designed by Jacques Fauroux, which offers more substantial interior volume and a separate head compartment for those requiring more than the Blue Djinn's "weekend" accommodations.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When evaluating a used Blue Djinn, the primary focus should be the centerboard mechanism. As a galvanized steel plate housed in a fiberglass trunk, the board is susceptible to corrosion if the protective coatings have failed. Buyers should inspect the lifting cable and the pivot pin for wear, as a seized board can be a significant repair undertaking.
The deck hardware and mast step also require scrutiny. On earlier models, the compression post beneath the mast step should be checked for any signs of settling or stress cracks in the surrounding fiberglass. Additionally, because these boats are frequently trailered, the hull-to-deck joint and the transom should be inspected for "trailer rash" or structural stress caused by improper support during transport. Finally, check the rudder cassette and the kick-up mechanism; these components are frequently exposed to grounding stresses given the boat’s shallow-water mission profile.
Community & Resources
The Blue Djinn benefits from one of the most active owner communities in the French sailing world. The Association des Propriétaires de Blue Djinn et Djinn 7 (ASPROBJINN) serves as an invaluable repository of technical knowledge, rigging guides, and organized cruising rallies. This association is instrumental in maintaining the model's resale value and providing a platform for owners to share DIY modifications and maintenance tips.
The Verdict
The Blue Djinn is an exemplary choice for sailors seeking a low-maintenance, transportable cruiser that punches above its weight in terms of utility and charm. It excels as a coastal "raider" or a family weekender, provided the owners embrace the simplicity of small-boat living.
Pros:
- True shallow-draft capability with an integral centerboard for easy beaching.
- Easily transportable on a standard trailer, reducing storage and berthing costs.
- Strong owner support via a dedicated class association.
- Highly forgiving and stable handling characteristics for novice sailors.
Cons:
- Limited headroom and amenities for extended stays or larger crews.
- Upwind performance is less efficient than fixed-keel competitors.
- Small interior volume necessitates a disciplined approach to gear management.
