While the original 650 was often a custom or semi-custom build in wood-epoxy or foam-core composite, the design eventually saw production-run iterations. The most notable of these is the Carbon650, a production version built in Thailand that utilized vacuum-infused carbon fiber construction to ensure weight consistency across the class. The Shaw 650 sits within a family of designs that include the smaller Shaw 550, a dedicated two-person sportsboat, and the larger Shaw 7 and Shaw 7.5, which scale the concept up for more offshore-capable racing. There is also a Shaw 9 and Shaw 11, which apply the same high-performance hull logic to the grand prix racing circuit.
Sailing Performance & Handling
Sailing a Shaw 650 is an exercise in managing extreme power. With a displacement of only around 350kg to 450kg (depending on the specific build) and a significant sail area, the boat’s Sail Area/Displacement ratio is exceptionally high, putting it firmly in the category of "planing" rather than "displacement" hulls. In light air, the boat’s low wetted surface area allows it to outpace much larger keelboats. However, it is in breezes exceeding 10–12 knots where the design truly excels. Once the asymmetric spinnaker is deployed from the carbon prod, the boat transitions onto a plane almost instantly.
The handling is described by many owners as "skiff-like" but with the added safety net of a 125kg+ lead bulb. This allows the crew to push the boat harder than a traditional dinghy. Tracking is sharp thanks to a high-aspect rudder, though the boat requires active mainsheet trimming and precise weight placement to keep the narrow hull balanced. In many fleets, the boat is sailed with one or two crew members on trapezes, which significantly increases the righting moment and allows the boat to carry its massive square-top mainsail higher into the wind range. Technical reviews from Boating New Zealand have historically highlighted the boat's ability to reach speeds in excess of 20 knots downwind, noting that its "nervous" energy on the helm is a hallmark of its high-performance DNA.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Shaw 650 gained significant traction within the Australasian sportsboat circuit, frequently appearing at the top of the leaderboards in the ASBA (Australian Sports Boat Association) championships and the Bay of Islands Sailing Week. Its reputation was cemented through various high-speed "vlog" style videos from early adopters in the New Zealand racing scene, showing the boat's ability to maintain control while "smoking" past 40-foot cruiser-racers. The design is often cited in naval architecture discussions as a benchmark for the "modern sportsboat" era, influencing several subsequent designs in the 6-to-7-meter range.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Shaw 650 should focus their inspection on the high-load areas inherent to a boat that generates such significant rig tension and speed.
- Keel Box Integrity: The lifting keel mechanism and the trunk itself are subject to immense lateral loads when the boat is powered up. Inspect for stress crazing around the top of the keel trunk and ensure the locking pins or gaskets are not deformed.
- Chainplate Reinforcement: On early custom-built wood or foam versions, the chainplates and the surrounding laminate should be checked for any signs of movement or water ingress, as the rig tension required to keep the forestay tight is substantial.
- Carbon Bowsprit and Exit Box: The retractable prod is a frequent point of failure if the boat has been involved in a "wipeout" with the kite up. Check the carbon tube for longitudinal cracks and inspect the exit point on the bow for structural crushing.
- Gudgeons and Pintles: Because the boat travels at high speeds, the rudder assembly experiences high vibration and torque. Check for play in the rudder bearings and ensure the transom reinforcements are solid.
- Rigging Life: Most Shaw 650s use high-modulus fibers (like Dyform or even composite rigging) and carbon masts. Inspect the mast track and the hound attachments for any signs of fatigue or carbon splintering.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for the class is the Shaw 650 Class Association, which manages the one-design rules to prevent an "arms race" in sail technology and keep the boats competitive. Technical support and build history can often be traced through the Rob Shaw Yacht Design portal, which remains the authoritative source for rig dimensions and keel profiles. Regional sportsboat associations in Australia and New Zealand also maintain active forums and handicap data for the fleet.
The Verdict
The Shaw 650 is a uncompromising racing machine that demands a high level of athleticism and skill from its crew. It is not a boat for the casual cruiser, but for those seeking grand prix speeds in a package that can be parked in a driveway, it has few rivals.
Pros:
- Incredible Speed: Capable of exceeding 20 knots; one of the fastest boats in its size class.
- Trailerability: The lifting keel and lightweight carbon rig make it easy to transport to various regattas.
- Modern Design: Features like the square-top main and retractable prod keep it relevant in the modern racing landscape.
Cons:
- Physicality: Requires an active, fit crew; often requires trapezing.
- Minimal Comfort: There is no interior; this is a pure "day racer" with no accommodations.
- Build Variance: Early custom models vary in weight and finish quality compared to later production versions.
