Jouet Kid Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Jouët Kid is characterized by a high degree of primary stability, a direct result of its 1.70-meter beam and relatively flat hull sections aft. Unlike more "twitchy" contemporary dinghies such as the Laser or the 420, the Kid was designed to be forgiving for novices. It features a centerboard configuration that allows for easy beaching and shallow-water exploration. Under sail, the boat typically carries a fractional sloop rig with a total sail area of approximately 10.5 square meters.

Handling is best described as predictable rather than exhilarating. While it lacks the planing potential of a modern skiff, it tracks well and provides enough feedback for students to learn the nuances of trim and heel. Anecdotal evidence from historical French sailing school records suggests the boat was favored for its ability to carry two adults or three teenagers comfortably without becoming dangerously unstable in a gust. The hull’s construction, while heavier than performance-oriented fiberglass boats of the same era—weighing in at roughly 130kg—contributes to a more dampened motion in a chop, making it an excellent platform for coastal day-tripping.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a vintage Jouët Kid should focus on the integrity of the fiberglass laminate and the hardware attachments, as many of these vessels saw heavy use in institutional settings.

1. Centerboard Trunk and Pivot: Inspect the centerboard trunk for stress cracks, particularly near the pivot bolt. Years of grounding or high-load sailing can weaken the fiberglass around the bolt hole, leading to persistent leaks that are difficult to seal.
2. Deck and Cockpit Sole Delamination: The Kid used a sandwich construction in certain areas for rigidity. Check for "spongy" sections on the cockpit floor or the foredeck. Soft spots often indicate that the core material has become saturated or has separated from the fiberglass skins.
3. Mast Step Reinforcement: The mast step is a high-stress point. Ensure there are no spiderweb cracks (crazing) in the gelcoat around the base of the mast, which could suggest structural fatigue in the underlying laminate.
4. Internal Flotation: These boats were built with internal buoyancy tanks or foam. Over decades, this foam can absorb water if the hull has been breached, significantly increasing the boat's weight and compromising its safety. If the boat feels unusually heavy during a "tap test" or when lifting the bow, internal water retention is likely.
5. Rudder Gudgeons: The transom-mounted gudgeons for the rudder are prone to loosening. Verify that the backing plates are secure and that the transom itself is not flexing when the rudder is moved under load.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Jouët Kid often find technical support within the broader French sailing community. The most prominent group is the Association des Propriétaires de Jouët (APJouët), which, while primarily focused on the larger cruising models, maintains archives and technical interest in the smaller heritage models like the Kid. Technical specifications and historical context are also frequently cataloged by the Conservatoire de la Plaisance de Bordeaux, which preserves the history of builders like Lanaverre and Yachting France.

The Verdict

The Jouët Kid is a stout, reliable classic that remains a viable option for families seeking a simple, low-maintenance daysailer or a classic trainer. While it lacks the speed of modern carbon-fiber dinghies, its seaworthiness and historical pedigree make it a charming representative of the 1970s French sailing boom.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability for its size, making it ideal for beginners and children.
• Robust fiberglass construction that handles beaching and rough use well.
• Sufficient cockpit space for multiple occupants compared to performance dinghies.

Cons:

• Heavier than many modern 14-foot dinghies, making it a challenge for single-handed "ramp-to-water" launching.
• Limited performance in light winds due to its displacement-oriented hull shape.
• Sourcing original replacement parts for proprietary hardware may require custom fabrication.