Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Gib'Sea 68 are defined by Jean-Marie Finot’s signature approach to hull form: a relatively wide beam (2.50m) carried well aft to provide stability and interior volume. This design choice results in a boat that feels significantly "bigger" and more stable underfoot than many of its 22-foot contemporaries. With a displacement of roughly 1,250 kg and a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 32%, the boat is notably stiff, allowing it to carry its sail area effectively in a breeze.
In lighter air, the 68 benefits from a generous sail plan for its size. Owners often report that the boat tracks well due to its 6.00m waterline length, which is long relative to its overall length. The lifting-keel version is particularly popular in areas with high tidal ranges or shallow estuaries, though it sacrifices a marginal amount of pointing ability compared to the fixed-keel version. The boat is typically rigged as a masthead sloop with a simple, manageable layout that allows for single-handed sailing. While it is not a dedicated racing machine, its hull shape shares DNA with the Mini 6.50 development of that era, giving it a respectable turn of speed when sailing off the wind.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its modest dimensions, the interior of the Gib'Sea 68 is a masterclass in space optimization. The cabin offers a traditional "four-berth" layout, consisting of a double V-berth in the forepeak and two long settee berths in the main salon. Because the beam is carried wide, the salon feels surprisingly airy for a boat of this vintage. While there is no standing headroom—a common trait for vessels under 25 feet—the sitting headroom is sufficient for most adults.
The cabinetry is typically finished in light wood or molded fiberglass liners, which help maintain a bright atmosphere. Functional features include a small, slide-out galley area often located under the companionway or tucked to one side, designed to hold a single-burner stove and a small sink. Storage is found beneath the berths and in small lockers along the hull sides. The primary variation of the 68 involves the keel configuration; the lifting-keel model features a centerboard trunk that bisects the salon table, while the fixed-keel version provides a slightly more open floor plan. A sibling model, the Gib'Sea 66, was also produced during this era, though it featured a slightly different deck mold and interior arrangement, often seen as a more "entry-level" predecessor to the refined 68.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Gib'Sea 68 should focus on the structural integrity of a 40-year-old fiberglass hull. High-signal areas for inspection include:
- Keel Pivot and Mechanism: For the lifting-keel (DL) version, the pivot pin and the lifting cable are critical wear items. If the board "clanks" while at anchor or under sail, the pivot hole may have become elongated, requiring a specialized repair.
- Mast Step Compression: Like many boats with deck-stepped masts, the support structure beneath the mast should be checked for signs of compression or sagging, which can lead to rigging tension issues.
- Windows and Hatches: The original acrylic windows were often secured with fasteners that, over decades, can develop hairline cracks in the gelcoat or simply lose their seal, leading to leaks that damage the interior woodwork.
- Rudder Bearings: Given the age of these vessels, the transom-mounted rudder hardware should be checked for "play" or slop. Wear in the pintles and gudgeons can make the boat feel unresponsive or vibrate at higher speeds.
The Verdict
The Gib'Sea 68 remains a highly regarded choice for sailors looking for a low-maintenance, easy-to-handle coastal cruiser that can be stored in a driveway during the winter months. Its Finot pedigree ensures it sails better than most "caravan-style" cruisers of the same era, making it a viable option for both novice sailors and experienced cruisers downsizing to a simpler platform.
Pros:
- Trailerability: Easily moved between cruising grounds without professional transport.
- Stability: A wide beam and generous ballast ratio make it feel secure in coastal chop.
- Design Pedigree: Benefit of Jean-Marie Finot’s expertise in efficient, seaworthy hull forms.
- Interior Volume: One of the most spacious cabins available in the 22-foot category.
Cons:
- Headroom: Limited to sitting headroom only, which may be taxing for multi-day trips.
- Age: Most units will require some degree of refitting for sails, rigging, and electronics.
- Centerboard Maintenance: The lifting keel version requires periodic inspection of the internal mechanism.
