FarEast 11 Information, Review, Specs

Built using the same advanced vacuum infusion technology that Far East Boat Co. applies to its larger racing keelboats like the 28R, the Fareast 11 is significantly lighter and more rigid than traditional rotomolded dinghies in its size class. The hull features a contemporary "skiff-like" profile with a wide transom and a hard chine that runs toward the aft, providing a stable planing surface that allows the boat to accelerate quickly in a breeze. While it is primarily a single-handed vessel, its cockpit volume and buoyancy are sufficient for a parent and child or two smaller youngsters to sail together comfortably.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Fareast 11 is defined by its responsiveness and ease of planing. Unlike the boxy, displacement-heavy designs of older training boats, the 11 utilizes a modern hull shape that rewards proper trim and weight placement. With a relatively high sail-area-to-displacement ratio for a youth trainer, it provides enough power to be exciting in light air while remaining manageable in a blow thanks to a well-balanced rig.

The boat features a simple yet effective fractional rig with a square-top mainsail, a design choice common in high-performance classes like the Finn or various skiffs. This allows the top of the sail to "twist off" in gusts, automatically depowering the boat and making it more forgiving for less experienced sailors. Handling is characterized by light helm pressure and exceptional tracking, largely due to the high-aspect ratio daggerboard and rudder. According to technical specifications from the builder, the vacuum-infused GRP construction keeps the hull weight low, which translates to a "zippy" feel and rapid acceleration when coming out of tacks or onto a plane.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Fareast 11 does not have the decades-long cultural footprint of the Laser or the Optimist, it has gained significant traction in the Asian and Australian markets as a preferred boat for sailing academies. It is frequently highlighted in regional boat shows, such as the China (Shanghai) International Boat Show, as a symbol of the "new wave" of Chinese boat manufacturing—moving away from licensed copies and toward original, high-performance designs. Its role in the Fareast Cup and various youth development programs has solidified its reputation as a modern alternative to traditional GRP dinghies.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When evaluating a used Fareast 11, the primary focus should be on the integrity of the vacuum-infused laminate and the hardware attachment points.

• Mast Step and Deck Plate: Given the high-tension nature of modern rigs, inspect the mast step and the surrounding deck area for stress cracks or "spidering." While the vacuum infusion process creates a strong bond, the point loads on a dinghy used for aggressive training can be substantial.
• Daggerboard Trunk: Inspect the trunk for any vertical cracking or impact damage. Because the boat is capable of high speeds, "grounding" the daggerboard can put significant leverage on the trunk. Ensure the gaskets (if equipped) are in good condition to prevent excess turbulence.
• Gelcoat and Chines: The hard chines that provide the boat its stability are also the most likely areas to suffer from "dock rash" or abrasion from beach launching. Look for thin spots in the gelcoat along the lower chine and the transom edge.
• Rudder Gudgeons: Check the transom-mounted hardware for any play. Frequent capsizes or heavy-weather sailing can loosen the bolts or cause minor delamination around the gudgeon plates if they haven't been re-bedded periodically.

Community & Resources

The primary support for the Fareast 11 comes through the manufacturer’s global distribution network. Technical support and class-specific parts are managed through entities such as Far East Boats UK and Far East Yachts Australia. While it lacks a massive independent class association compared to the ILCA, the manufacturer maintains a strong presence in organizing regional regattas and providing technical wikis for rig tuning and maintenance.

The Verdict

The Fareast 11 is a sophisticated, lightweight trainer that offers a much-needed bridge between basic dinghies and high-performance racing.

Pros:

• Modern, high-performance hull design that planes easily.
• Superior build quality using vacuum infusion GRP.
• Versatile weight range, accommodating youth sailors and light adults.
• Square-top rig provides a modern sailing experience with better gust response.

Cons:

• Smaller secondary market and class density compared to established "legacy" dinghies.
• GRP construction is more susceptible to cosmetic damage than rotomolded alternatives.
• High-performance feel may have a steeper learning curve for absolute beginners compared to a pram-style boat.