Timpenny 670 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Timpenny 670 is frequently described as having "dinghy-like" responsiveness, a characteristic attributed to its lightweight construction and efficient hull form. According to the Timpenny Trailable Yacht Association, the boat features a displacement of roughly 860 kg and a ballast ratio near 26%, which is high for its class. This weight distribution, combined with a deep-retractable keel (extending to 1.19 meters), allows the boat to point exceptionally well for a trailer sailer.

The rigging is a fractional sloop with a notable emphasis on ease of use; most models were equipped with a self-tacking jib, minimizing the physical effort required during tacks. Under the right conditions, the 670 is a "dry planing" hull capable of exceeding its theoretical hull speed of 6 knots once the wind nears 20 knots. Technical notes from the designer’s biography highlight that early versions even experimented with rotating masts to optimize the mainsail’s leading edge—a sophisticated feature for a 22-foot production boat in the 1970s. While light, the boat is categorized by a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 103, placing it firmly in the "light racer" category, which results in rapid acceleration in light puffs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its performance-oriented hull, the interior of the Timpenny 670 was designed for modest family cruising. The standard layout provides four adult-sized berths: a double V-berth forward, a single settee berth to starboard, and a single quarter berth to port. To address the inherent lack of headroom in a low-profile hull, many units were built with a "pop-top" cabin roof, which provides standing room when at anchor.

The cabin utilizes a central table that cleverly integrates the centreboard housing to maximize usable floor space. Amenities include a basic galley area with a sink and space for a two-burner stove, as well as a chemical toilet typically housed under the forward berth. The 670 was produced in several hull and deck variations, including a hardtop version with a sliding hatch and the more common pop-top variant. Its larger sibling, the Timpenny 770, was developed shortly after to offer a full meter of additional length, five berths, and a separate enclosed head compartment for those seeking extended cruising capabilities.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Timpenny 670 is a staple of the Australian trailer-sailing community and has maintained a strong presence in regional regattas for decades. It is particularly noted for its safety credentials; the Timpenny Association features historical footage of self-righting tests and buoyancy demonstrations where the boat remained afloat even when completely swamped. This reputation for being "virtually unsinkable" due to built-in foam buoyancy has made it a favorite in safety-conscious racing circles, such as those participating in the Victorian Yachting Council events.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Timpenny 670, buyers should focus on the integrity of the keel system and the condition of the hull’s core.

• Centreboard Mechanism: The 220 kg keel requires a robust purchase system. Buyers should inspect the stainless steel rods and lifting cables for fraying or corrosion, as the plate is heavy and can cause significant damage if the lifting mechanism fails.
• Water Ingress at Case: A common "gotcha" found in owner forums involves water leaking around the centreboard case, often where previous owners have incorrectly installed through-hull transducers.
• Foam Buoyancy: While the boat was built with foam buoyancy, this can become waterlogged over decades if the hull has suffered osmosis or internal leaks. A professional moisture meter check of the lower hull sections is advised.
• Rudder Assembly: The transom-mounted rudder uses a daggerboard-style blade. Inspect the rudder box for stress fractures where the blade inserts, as this area handles significant leverage when sailing at high speeds.

Community & Resources

The most prominent resource for owners is the Timpenny Trailable Yacht Association of Australia Inc., which maintains class rules, a register of boats, and a repository of technical "Timpenny Times" newsletters. This association is active in organizing national titles and provides essential rigging and fit-out tips for modernizing the 1970s hardware.

The Verdict

The Timpenny 670 remains one of the most balanced trailer sailers ever produced, offering a rare combination of race-winning speed and safety-first engineering.

Pros:

• Excellent safety profile with self-righting capability and built-in buoyancy.
• Light enough to be towed by a standard family sedan on a single-axle trailer.
• High performance in light airs and the ability to plane in heavy winds.
• Extremely easy to sail shorthanded thanks to the self-tacking jib.

Cons:

• Limited standing headroom unless the pop-top is deployed.
• Heavy manual lift keel can be cumbersome compared to modern hydraulic or electric systems.
• Cockpit can become crowded with more than four adults despite its generous size.