Design and Construction
J Composites builds the end-grain balsa-cored hull using the SCRIMP vacuum resin-infusion system. The foam-cored deck and bulkheads, along with the fiberglass floor grid, are also infused using SCRIMP. An outer layer of vinylester resin helps prevent osmosis, and the builder backs the hull with a 10-year warranty. The hull, foam-cored deck and bulkheads, and fiberglass floor grid are infused using the SCRIMP vacuum resin system.
All intermediate bulkheads are glassed to both the deck and hull. An infused fiberglass floor-stringer grid adds stiffness and helps support rig and keel loads. The deck’s foam core helps lower the center of gravity, while the V-shaped bow sections are intended to improve directional stability and reduce slamming in a seaway.
The finished boat pairs a sleek, sculpted cabintrunk with blunt hull ends and a springy sheer, giving it the appearance of a modern performance boat.
Rig, Keel, and Handling
The J/112e carries a slightly fractional, double-spreader tapered aluminum mast, with a carbon mast available as an option. The rig includes a minimally overlapping blade jib, rod rigging, and a retractable offset carbon bowsprit. A hydraulic backstay adjuster, movable genoa cars, and low-stretch Dyneema halyards for both jib and main provide a race-ready range of tuning controls.
The standard keel is an epoxy-encapsulated cast-iron fin with a lead bulb, drawing 6 feet 11 inches. A 5-foot 9-inch shoal-draft foil is available as an alternative. Outboard chainplates and a long mainsheet traveler recessed into the cockpit sole help keep the boat balanced and easy to trim.
Under power, the slippery hull and powerful spade rudder make maneuvering a pleasure. Chain-and-wire steering linked to the deep fin rudder provides fingertip control.
Performance Under Sail
During the 2016 Chicago to Mackinac Race, the J/112e Mary Gail regularly exceeded 16 knots under the chute and once reached 18.2 knots.
Leaving the line with a Code 0, the boat matched wind speed on a close reach in 7–8 knots of breeze and pulled away from its competition in light air. After the first squall, the crew changed down to a genoa, and the boat tacked confidently. Later in the race, its well-balanced helm and spade rudder kept it under control in a following sea.
Accommodations
Belowdecks, cold-molded solid and laminated walnut contrasts with white side and overhead panels. Large cabintrunk windows and a pair of small hull windows bring light into the interior.
The forward owner’s cabin has a roomy double V-berth with storage beneath, a large hanging locker, and double doors opening into the saloon. Two straight settees flank a folding dining table. Both are long enough to serve as proper sea berths for a six-footer.
The L-shaped galley is to starboard, close against the companionway. Opposite, the port-side head and shower can also serve as a wet locker. A double quarterberth to starboard provides the second private cabin, while robust overhead grab rails offer secure handholds through the main accommodation.
Cockpit, Deck Gear, and Tankage
The cockpit benches end just forward of the recessed single 59-inch wheel. Wide, unobstructed sidedecks run alongside an integral, bulwark-style toerail.
A removable stainless-steel swim step is standard. Stowage includes a starboard liferaft locker and a port storage locker. To reduce cockpit clutter, the mainsheet ends pass into watertight boxes in the sidewalls before reaching their winches.
Tankage comprises 53 gallons of water and 22 gallons of fuel. The modest fuel capacity is deliberate, a testament to a boat that need only motor in truly light conditions.
Verdict
The J/112e is a thoughtfully evolved 36-footer that bridges racing and cruising without compromising either. Its infused structure, light-air pace, and sea-kindly helm are complemented by a warm, practical interior.
Pros
- Infused balsa-cored hull with a vinylester barrier and 10-year builder warranty
- Light-air performance that allowed the boat to pull away from rivals under a Code 0
- Long sea-berth settees and two private cabins with a walnut finish
- Recessed traveler and outboard chainplates for balanced trim
Cons
- Restricted 22-gallon fuel capacity limits extended motoring
- Standard 6-foot 11-inch draft excludes some shallow berths
