Jouet 680 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Jouët 680 is characterized by its stability and predictable manners, largely due to a relatively high ballast ratio for a boat of its size. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the moderate-heavy side of the spectrum, it lacks the twitchy nature of modern ultra-light dinghies, offering instead a "big boat" feel that reassures novice sailors in a blow. According to editorial insights from the French maritime publication Bateaux.com, the 680 is particularly noted for its balance under sail; even when pressed, the wide beam carried well aft helps resist excessive heeling.

The fractional rig is manageable for short-handed crews, though the boat truly comes alive in 10–15 knots of breeze. While it is not a dedicated racing machine, its hull shape—featuring a relatively fine entry and flat sections aft—allows it to track well on a reach. The swing-keel version naturally suffers from slightly more leeway than the fixed-keel variant, but this is a trade-off many owners accept for the tactical advantage of reaching shallower anchorages. Technical documentation suggests the boat was designed to be stiff enough to carry its full mainsail longer than many of its contemporaries, a testament to Villenave's focus on seaworthiness.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel measuring just 6.80 meters, the interior of the Jouët 680 is surprisingly ergonomic. The "open plan" layout was forward-thinking for the 1970s, avoiding the claustrophobic feeling typical of early small cruisers. It features a double V-berth forward, which is subtly separated from the main salon by the mast compression post and storage lockers. Two additional settee berths run along the sides of the cabin, providing sleeping accommodations for four adults, though in practice, it is most comfortable for a couple or a small family.

Headroom is approximately 1.50 meters, which requires a "bent-neck" stance for most adults but is generous compared to the smaller Jouët 600. The galley is rudimentary, typically featuring a single-burner stove and a small sink, often located near the companionway for better ventilation. Material choices reflect the era: molded fiberglass liners are softened by wooden trim and thick cushions.

The 680 was part of a broader family of Villenave designs produced under the Yachting France umbrella. Its smaller sibling, the Jouët 600, offers a scaled-down experience for day sailing, while the larger Jouët 760 (designed by Philippe Briand) serves as the next logical step for those requiring standing headroom and a separate head compartment. Another close relative is the Jouët 24, which shares some of the 680’s design DNA but offers a more traditional, offshore-oriented profile.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several specific technical areas unique to the Jouët 680’s construction and age.

1. Lifting Keel Mechanism: On the "dériveur lesté" models, the pivot pin and the lifting cable are critical failure points. Years of salt-water immersion can lead to electrolysis or mechanical wear. It is essential to inspect the keel trunk for signs of stress cracking and to verify that the keel moves freely without excessive lateral play.
2. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, the Jouët 680 utilized a sandwich construction for the deck. Soft spots around the chainplates, stanchion bases, or the mast step often indicate water ingress into the core material, requiring a potentially labor-intensive repair.
3. Mast Step Compression: The load of the mast is transferred through the deck to a compression post. In some units, moisture at the base of this post or deformation of the deck plate has been noted, which can affect rig tension and hull symmetry.
4. Osmosis: While Yachting France hulls are generally robust, early 1980s gelcoats are susceptible to osmotic blistering. A hull survey is recommended to check for "pockmarking" below the waterline, especially if the boat has been kept in the water year-round.
5. Window Seals: The large acrylic side windows are prone to leaking as the original bedding compounds dry out and shrink. Staining on the interior upholstery or woodwork is a common tell-tale sign of this issue.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Jouët 680 often find support through the Association des Propriétaires de Jouët (APJ), a French-based organization dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the brand’s history. While the shipyard is no longer in operation, technical drawings and original brochures are frequently archived by these enthusiast groups. The boat’s popularity in France means that a wealth of DIY knowledge exists in Francophone sailing forums, specifically regarding the restoration of the Villenave-designed hulls.

The Verdict

The Jouët 680 remains a standout choice for sailors seeking a vintage pocket cruiser that balances trailerability with genuine coastal capability. Its robust construction and clever use of space make it a "classic" that still feels relevant in modern marinas.

Pros:

• Versatility: The lifting keel version allows for beaching and shallow-water exploration.
• Stability: High ballast ratio and wide beam provide a safe, forgiving ride.
• Cabin Volume: Excellent interior layout for a boat under 23 feet.
• Affordability: Offers a low entry price for those looking to start coastal cruising.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Older swing-keel mechanisms require regular, often difficult, servicing.
• Headroom: Lack of full standing headroom may be a deal-breaker for longer voyages.
• Aged Systems: Original electrical and plumbing systems usually require a complete overhaul.