CNSO Jidzo Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Jidzo is a light-displacement monohull that emphasizes agility over raw speed. Because it lacks the heavy ballasted keel of the larger Samouraï, it behaves with a liveliness more akin to a large dinghy, though its fixed-keel or weighted-centerboard configurations provide a necessary degree of stability for coastal work. Under sail, the boat is known for its light helm and responsiveness.

In moderate breezes, the Jidzo tracks reasonably well for its short waterline length. However, like many French designs of the 1970s, it carries a fair amount of beam for its size, which can cause it to "hobby-horse" or slam in a short, steep chop if not driven with enough sail area. Anecdotal reports from the French sailing journal Bateaux suggest the boat performs best under a full mainsail and a slightly overlapping genoa, maintaining a balanced feel up to Force 4 conditions. Beyond that, the boat's light weight requires early reefing to keep the heel angle manageable and prevent the rudder from losing traction.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its diminutive 17-foot frame, the Jidzo features an enclosed cabin that distinguishes it from open day sailors of the era. The interior is utilitarian and compact, typically offering two full-length settee berths that extend under the cockpit seats and a small "V-berth" area forward, though the latter is better suited for sail storage or children. There is no standing headroom; the living experience is centered around "sitting comfort."

The cabin is sparse, reflecting its role as a coastal weekender. While some units were fitted with a small slide-out galley or a dedicated spot for a chemical toilet, most owners treat the interior as a dry space for sleeping and gear storage. The use of molded fiberglass liners makes the interior easy to wipe down, though it can feel somewhat clinical compared to the wood-heavy interiors of larger CNSO yachts. There are no major sibling variations on this specific 5.35m hull, though it is often compared to the Daimio 23, which serves as the next logical step up in the CNSO range with a similar aesthetic but significantly more interior volume.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Jidzo with the understanding that these vessels are now over 40 years old. While CNSO hulls were generally robust, specific areas require scrutiny:

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the Jidzo uses a sandwich construction for the deck. Soft spots around the mast step or the chainplates are common and indicate that water has compromised the core material.
• Rudder Assembly: The pintles and gudgeons on the transom-hung rudder are prone to wear. Any significant "play" or rattling in the rudder should be addressed to avoid steering failure under load.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: On fixed-keel versions, the joint should be inspected for "smiles" or weeping rust, which can indicate that the keel bolts require tightening or replacement.
• Chainplate Leaks: The small footprint of the boat means that even minor leaks at the shroud attachments can quickly lead to moisture buildup in the cabin cushions and plywood bulkheads.

The Verdict

The CNSO Jidzo is a charming relic of the French fiberglass revolution, offering a sturdy, seaworthy alternative to modern, lighter-weight plastic daysailers. It is an ideal choice for a sailor who appreciates classic lines and wants a trailerable boat with the security of a cabin.

Pros:

• Seaworthy Pedigree: Built by a yard known for robust offshore cruisers.
• Trailerability: Its size and weight allow for easy transport and winter storage at home.
• Low Maintenance: Simple systems and a molded interior make it easy to keep in sail-ready condition.

Cons:

• Limited Space: Truly a "two-person" boat; the cabin is cramped for more than a weekend.
• Performance Limits: Not a racing boat; it will be outpaced by more modern designs like the Beneteau First 18.
• Age-Related Wear: Most surviving examples will require some level of cosmetic or structural restoration.