Open 5.00 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The performance of the Open 5.00 is defined by its high power-to-weight ratio and its distinctive hull geometry. With a wide beam carried well aft and a flat run toward the transom, the boat is designed to break the displacement barrier and plane easily in moderate breeze. Unlike traditional keelboats that "plow" through the water, the Open 5.00 lifts and skims, a characteristic facilitated by its light displacement and carbon-reinforced structure. According to technical documentation from Finot-Conq, the hull is specifically shaped to provide dynamic stability as speed increases.

Handling is characterized by extreme responsiveness, thanks in large part to its twin rudder configuration. These rudders remain effective even when the boat is heeled at significant angles, providing "surgical" steering precision that prevents the wipeouts common in single-rudder sportboats. The sail plan is modern and powerful, featuring a square-top mainsail and a large asymmetric spinnaker flown from a retractable bowsprit. This setup allows the boat to reach high speeds on downwind legs, often exceeding the wind speed in light to moderate conditions. Owners frequently report that the boat feels like a "skiff with a safety net," as the 90kg (approx. 198 lbs) bulb keel provides a significant righting moment, allowing the crew to focus on trim rather than survival.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Open 5.00 gained considerable traction in the mid-2000s as part of the "Sportboat Revolution." While its larger sibling, the Open 5.70, received the lion's share of media accolades—including being named "One-Design of the Year" by Sailing World in 2007—the 5.00 was consistently highlighted as the more accessible, "pure" entry point into the class. Editorial reviews from the era often compared it to a "go-kart on water," emphasizing its role in youth training programs and as a platform for veteran sailors looking to downsize from larger, more cumbersome racing yachts. The boat has maintained a dedicated following in Europe, particularly within the French "classe Open," where it is a staple of coastal regattas.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used Open 5.00 should focus on the specific stresses inherent to high-performance sportboats. While the design is robust, the following areas require scrutiny:

• Keel Lifting Mechanism: The Open 5.00 features a retractable keel for easy trailering. The winch, cable, and attachment points should be inspected for corrosion or fraying. Any play in the keel trunk while the keel is locked down can lead to "clunking" and potential fiberglass fatigue.
• Rudder Gudgeons and Pintles: Because the twin rudders experience significant torque when the boat is planing, the mounting hardware can work loose over time. Check for spider-cracking in the gelcoat around the transom mounts.
• Cockpit Floor Integrity: As an open boat, the cockpit is constantly exposed to the elements. Inspect the non-skid surfaces and the cockpit floor for "soft spots," which may indicate delamination of the core material due to water ingress or heavy foot traffic during racing.
• Mast Step and Standing Rigging: The rotating mast (on some versions) or the high-tension fixed rig puts significant load on the mast step. Ensure there are no structural compressions in the deck or hull around the step.

Community & Resources

The Open 5.00 benefits from the broader infrastructure of the "Open" class. Technical support and design history are primarily maintained through the Finot-Conq archives, which provide insight into the original specifications and rigging loft of the Phileas builds. In the United States, Open Sailing Inc. remains the primary historical touchstone for the class, having established the initial fleet in California and fostered the early one-design racing scene.

The Verdict

The Open 5.00 is a specialized tool designed for sailors who prioritize speed, simplicity, and the physical thrill of sportboat racing over the comforts of a cabin.

Pros

• Exceptional Speed: Planes easily and delivers dinghy-like acceleration.
• Ease of Transport: The retractable keel and light weight make it simple to tow with a standard vehicle.
• Safety: The bulb keel provides a level of stability that makes it much safer than a traditional dinghy for coastal sailing.
• Control: Twin rudders offer superior handling, especially when overpowered.

Cons

• No Interior: Strictly a daysailer; there is no shelter from the elements.
• Wet Ride: The low freeboard and high speeds mean the crew will likely get sprayed in a chop.
• Niche Market: As a specialized racing boat, it may have a smaller pool of buyers compared to traditional family cruisers.