Bluestorm 750 Information, Review, Specs

Make
Bluestorm
Model
750
Builder
Beaconax
Designer
Keith Callaghan
Number Built
Production Year(s)
2019 - ??

The Bluestorm 750, manufactured by BEACONAX Yachtbau GmbH, is a performance-oriented sports cruiser that occupies a unique intersection between traditional German "Jollenkreuzer" (dinghy cruiser) DNA and modern, sustainable nautical engineering. Designed by the renowned naval architect Keith Callaghan, the 7.5-meter vessel was commissioned as an evolution for owners of the smaller Bluestorm 700 who sought increased volume and sea-kindliness without sacrificing the agile, "planing-hull" feel of a smaller sportsboat. Constructed in Wiefelsstede, Germany, the model is a hallmark of the yard’s commitment to light-displacement sailing, often utilizing epoxy-sealed wood sandwich or high-end glass-wood composites that prioritize structural stiffness while maintaining a low environmental footprint.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Bluestorm 750 is defined by its versatility and high power-to-weight ratio. With a hull weight of approximately 1,350kg and a total displacement in sailing trim near 1,900kg, the boat features a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio that suggests a very light, responsive platform capable of early planing. The standard sail plan, including a 34-square-meter upwind configuration and asymmetric spinnaker options up to 55 square meters, provides significant drive even in light air.

Handling is characterized by precision, largely due to the twin-rudder configuration which maintains grip even at high heel angles—a necessity given the boat's 2.55-meter beam and sporty lines. According to technical assessments by Keith Callaghan, the hull's vertical stem and flat aft sections allow it to use its full waterline length effectively. The boat is typically offered with a twin swing keel system (draft ranging from 0.65m to 1.6m), which allows for exploration of shallow coastal waters or inland lakes while providing enough ballast for "Category B" offshore stability. For pure performance enthusiasts, some units have been configured with a fixed T-keel and bulb for maximum upwind lift.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its performance pedigree, the Bluestorm 750 utilizes a "backdecker" (raised deck) design that significantly expands interior volume. The layout is optimized for functionality during weekend cruising or short-term coastal hops. The cabin is known for its surprising headroom; reports from the German nautical press, including Yacht Magazine, note that even tall sailors can sit comfortably in the salon.

The interior typically accommodates 2 to 4 individuals, featuring a double V-berth in the forepeak and two generous longitudinal berths in the salon. Variations of the model are highly individualized, as the builder, BEACONAX, often collaborates with owners to customize cabinetry and materials. Common finishes include light-colored wood veneers paired with white epoxy surfaces to maintain a bright, airy ambiance. The sibling models—the Bluestorm 700 (the 7-meter progenitor), the 8.0-meter Bluestorm 800 (often seen as the model "Clara"), and the flagship 9.0-meter Bluestorm 900 ("Maurine")—all share this philosophy of maximizing interior space within a slender, trailer-friendly beam.

The Bluestorm series has gained significant attention in Northern European sailing circles, particularly through the German publication Yacht, which has conducted extensive trials of the 7.0m and 7.5m variants. Media coverage often focuses on the "Antje" (a notable early hull) and the 900-series "Maurine," which has been filmed reaching speeds over 11 knots in moderate conditions. The designer, Keith Callaghan, maintains a presence in the performance dinghy and small-yacht community, where the Bluestorm is frequently cited as a premier example of a "trailable sports cruiser" that does not compromise on aesthetic elegance.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Bluestorm 750 or its siblings should focus on the following technical areas:

  • Keel Pivot and Mechanism: On versions equipped with the twin swing keel, inspect the pivot pins and lifting cables for wear. Because these boats are often used in shallow or tidal waters, the keel trunks should be checked for evidence of grounding or "slop" that could indicate worn bushings.
  • Composite Core Integrity: Given the sustainable wood-epoxy or sandwich construction, a professional moisture meter reading is essential. While epoxy sealing is highly effective, any unsealed through-hull fittings or deck hardware additions by previous owners could lead to core rot.
  • Dual Rudder Alignment: Ensure the linkage between the twin rudders is tight. Any "play" in the system can dull the helm's responsiveness, which is one of the boat's primary selling points.
  • Carbon Rig Fatigue: Many Bluestorms are fitted with carbon fiber masts to reduce weight aloft. These should be inspected by a rigger for hairline stress fractures, particularly around the gooseneck and spreader attachments.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and owner support is the manufacturer, BEACONAX Yachtbau GmbH, and the designer's technical repository at Callaghan Design. While there is no centralized international "class association" due to the semi-custom nature of the builds, a dedicated owner’s group exists within the German SVB Owners Club, where technical specifications and replacement part lists are often shared among the Baltic and Lake Constance sailing communities.

The Verdict

The Bluestorm 750 is a sophisticated, "thinking man’s" trailer sailer that offers a rare blend of sustainable construction, high-performance naval architecture, and genuine weekend livability.

Pros

  • Exceptional Performance: Light displacement and a modern sail plan make it one of the fastest boats in its size class.
  • Shallow Water Versatility: The twin swing keel system is ideal for gunkholing and simplifies trailering.
  • Modern Aesthetics: The clean, "backdecker" lines and high-quality German finish provide a premium feel.

Cons

  • Niche Market: As a semi-custom German build, parts and specialized knowledge may be harder to find outside of Northern Europe.
  • Sensitivity: Like all light-displacement boats, she requires active trimming and can be "flighty" in gusty conditions if overpowered.
  • Price Point: The high-quality materials and sustainable construction methods command a premium over mass-produced fiberglass cruisers.

Measurements

Construction & Hull

Construction Material
Fiberglass/Wood Composite
Hull Type
Monohull Sailboat
Keel Type
Twin
Rudder
2x —
Ballast
- (Lead)
Displacement
2976 lbs
Water Capacity
-
Fuel Capacity
-

Dimensions

Length Overall (LOA)
24.61 ft
Waterline Length (LWL)
24.61 ft
Beam
8.37 ft
Draft
4.1 ft
Max Headroom
-
Air Draft
-
Hover over a measurement
IJPE FS LOALWL

Rig & Sails

Rig Type
Fractional Sloop
P (Main Luff)
31 ft
E (Main Foot)
11.65 ft
I (Foretriangle Height)
-
J (Foretriangle Base)
9.61 ft
Forestay Length (est)
-
Sail Area
303.54 sqft

Calculations

Sail Area / Displacement (SA/D) Ratio
23.47
Ballast / Displacement Ratio
Displacement / Length Ratio (D/L) Ratio
89.14
Comfort Ratio
11.03
Capsize Screening Formula
2.33
Hull Speed
6.65 kn