Design and Construction
Elan builds the E5’s hull using vacuum-assisted infusion lamination, a method the company adopted early among serial builders to guard against osmosis and keep stiffness and weight uniform. The builder’s 3D VAIL process goes further, integrating the inner structure, stringers, and their supports into the hull to create a one-piece, laminated, load-bearing shell.
The composite bulkheads use vacuum-cured, resin-impregnated biaxial fabric for stiffness, with an unbroken surface that spreads mechanical loads evenly across the cross-section. The deck has a foam core with a vinylester skin, while the hull uses a foam core within a GRP laminate.
A T-shaped keel lowers the centre of gravity, adding sail-carrying power and stability. The hard chine runs forward along each side, then smooths out about a third of the way down the hull. Light displacement is listed as 8,190 kg, including 2,700 kg of ballast, and beam is 3.87 m. The yacht sits firmly enough for bluewater sailing while remaining light on her lines. Published displacement figures differ, however: one source lists 7,300 kg.
Rig, Steering, and Performance
Twin rudders give the E5 exceptional directional control and notably reduce the tendency to broach. The reduced pitching moment also means she does not stall easily. The twin-wheel layout uses Jefa steering and lets the helmsperson work from either side without blocking movement through the cockpit. On ocean passages, the two rudders also provide welcome redundancy.
The carefully tuned fractional sail plan is set on a keel-stepped mast, with an adjustable split backstay. A retractable carbon bowsprit extends roughly 1.1 m for flying a 135 m² asymmetric. The mainsail measures 52 m² and the jib 39 m². The traveller crosses the cockpit sole ahead of the wheels, keeping it out of foot traffic.
Test sailors recorded about 5.5 knots to windward in 10 knots true. In similar conditions, owners report 8 to 8.5 knots cracked off, along with repeated downwind speeds of 14–17 knots when sailing two up. The builder says the hull shape is designed for speed and the rig for efficiency, and the boat is expressly optimised for shorthanded cruising.
Cockpit and Accommodation
The E5 combines a V-shaped cockpit with a bright, carefully planned interior. Artificial teak covers the cockpit and optional bathing platform; a real teak deck is available as an upgrade. Cockpit boxes provide both storage and seating, while the centre table folds out on layered teak wings.
Below, pale oak veneers and white linings help keep the saloon light. The furniture is arranged for space and comfort. To starboard, the fully equipped galley includes a two-burner stove, top-opening fridge, and double sinks. A head and shower are to port. The concealed nav station sits beneath a lifting squab, preserving more room for lounging.
The standard three-cabin, one-head layout has two aft double quarter-berths, each with hanging storage and a bookshelf tucked beneath the cockpit. A large V-berth fills the forward cabin, and a two-head layout is optional. Livability is further supported by a DAME-awarded control panel, hot water, electric drain pumps, and dimmable ambient lighting.
Equipment and Propulsion
Standard equipment has a performance-first emphasis, including genoa furling and Harken deck gear. The reviewed boat also carried B&G instrumentation.
A 38–40 hp Volvo diesel with saildrive is mounted beneath the companionway, where it is well insulated and quiet. Buyers can instead specify a 10 kW or 15 kW Oceanvolt electric powertrain.
The CE category A rating confirms the design’s offshore intent. A low-displacement configuration is also available to realise planning potential.
The Verdict
The Elan E5 is a genuinely dual-purpose 39-footer: fast enough to win club series, yet roomy and refined enough for two-up cruising. Its infusion-built, one-piece structure and twin-rudder control are the main strengths. The racing-derived cockpit and premium options also mean it is best compared with other performance cruisers rather than barefoot family trawlers.
Pros
- Infusion-built, one-piece hull and bulkheads provide uniform stiffness and resistance to osmosis
- Twin rudders and twin helms offer control and redundancy offshore
- Genuine shorthanded speed with a comfortable three-cabin interior
- CE category A rating, T-shaped keel, and configurable low-displacement planning setup
Cons
- The V-shaped cockpit and deck gear favour performance-minded crews over sedate motoring
- A real teak deck and electric drivetrain are optional upgrades rather than standard equipment
