Everitt E Boat Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The E Boat is defined by its agility and its capacity for high-speed off-the-wind bursts. With a displacement of approximately 950kg and a generous sail plan, the boat possesses a high power-to-weight ratio that allows it to plane in moderate breezes—a rarity for 22-foot cruisers of the late 1970s. As noted by the designer on the official Julian Everitt Design portfolio, the vessel was intended to provide a "pure" sailing experience, unencumbered by the heavy displacement required for traditional cruising.

Handling is sharp and communicative, though it demands an attentive crew. Because the E Boat uses a fully retractable lifting keel (ballasted with roughly 317kg of lead), it lacks the ultimate secondary stability of a deep-finned keelboat. In heavy weather, the boat requires early reefing to stay upright and efficient; if pushed too hard, the wide beam can cause the rudder to lift, leading to a broach. However, for those who enjoy "active" sailing, the E Boat tracks well and provides an exhilarating ride, particularly on a broad reach where it can outpace much larger, heavier vessels. The lifting keel mechanism also allows for "taking the ground," making it an ideal choice for exploring tidal estuaries where deep-draft boats cannot venture.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the E Boat is unapologetically Spartan, reflecting its primary purpose as a racing machine. With a maximum headroom of approximately 4 feet, the cabin is strictly for sitting and sleeping. The layout typically features four berths: two long quarter berths extending under the cockpit seats and a V-berth in the bow. While the space is cramped, it is functional for weekend regattas or short-range coastal hops.

A significant sibling variant to consider is the Evolution 22. While the E Boat was the "pure" racing version, the Evolution 22 utilized a similar hull form but featured a slightly higher coachroof and a more finished interior to appeal to the family cruising market. Buyers should be aware that while the E Boat and the Evolution 22 share the same designer and builder (Evolution Yachts), the E Boat’s deck mold is lower and sleeker, emphasizing aerodynamics and weight savings over cabin volume.

Popular Mentions & Media

The E Boat gained significant traction in the UK and Ireland, becoming one of the most successful one-design classes of the late 1970s. Its cultural footprint is most visible in the "Mini-Ton" racing circuit, where it frequently dominated trophy lists. The boat’s popularity was bolstered by its ability to be towed behind a standard family car, a feat celebrated in contemporary sailing magazines of the 1980s as the "democratization of offshore racing." The E-Boat Class Association remains a repository of this history, maintaining records of the national championships that once drew dozens of boats to the starting line.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should approach an E Boat with a focus on structural integrity and the mechanical state of the keel. High-signal areas for inspection include:

• Keel Lifting Mechanism: The winch and wire assembly used to raise and lower the 700lb keel are subject to significant wear. Inspect the wire for "meat hooks" (fraying) and ensure the winch mounting point in the cabin is structurally sound.
• Keel Box Sealing: The trunk that houses the lifting keel can be a source of leaks. Check for stress cracks around the base of the keel box where it joins the hull, as this area absorbs the lateral loads of the keel.
• Deck Delamination: The E Boat uses a sandwich construction for the deck to save weight. Over decades, moisture can ingress through deck hardware (cleats, stanchions), leading to soft spots. A thorough "tap test" with a phenolic hammer is recommended.
• Transom Stress: Given its racing pedigree, many E Boats have been sailed hard. Check the transom around the rudder gudgeons for "spiderweb" gelcoat cracks, which may indicate flex or past impact.

Community & Resources

The most prominent resource for owners is the E-Boat Class Association (UK & Ireland). This group provides technical support, especially regarding the maintenance of the lifting keel and the optimization of the rig. While Evolution Yachts Ltd. is no longer in operation, the class association serves as a vital bridge for sourcing parts or seeking advice on class-legal sail dimensions and modifications.

The Verdict

The Everitt E Boat is a specialized tool designed for sailors who prioritize speed, tactical racing, and the ability to explore shallow waters. It is not a comfortable family cruiser, but it offers a level of performance that few boats in its price bracket can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and planing potential off the wind.
• Fully retractable keel allows for beaching and easy trailering.
• Strong class history with a dedicated community of enthusiasts.
• Affordable entry point into the world of sportboat-style sailing.

Cons:

• Extremely limited interior headroom and amenities.
• Requires active weight management and early reefing in high winds.
• Age-related issues with the keel lifting mechanism require diligent maintenance.