Design and Construction
The hull and cored deck are hand-laid E-glass, with frames and stringers adding stiffness to the hull. A high-aspect cast-iron swing keel is raised and lowered by cleverly engineered hydraulics, and an electrical keel-control system is optional. For sailors seeking maximum performance, a 5ft 6in fixed keel with a ballast bulb is also available.
The expansive, self-draining cockpit and foredeck are awash in teak. Mahogany coamings and cabin sides surround the cuddy, and the mahogany is easily removable for maintenance. A hinged cuddy top, supported by two gas struts, opens the companionway to a small but cozy cabin. Workmanship throughout is nothing less than spectacular.
Rig and Sail Handling
The 7/8 rig has an aluminum mast and boom as standard. Options include a retractable carbon bowsprit and a carbon mast.
A dedicated helm station aft brings the sail controls to two winches and banks of clutches mounted on a molded partition. The mainsheet runs from the end of the boom to a traveler that arches over the tiller. This separates the cockpit from a small aft deck with storage beneath it, keeps the helmsman’s working lines clear of the guest seating, and makes short-handed sailing a tidy affair.
Under Sail
Test sailors found the Tofinou 8 surprisingly nimble, despite the somewhat stubby rudder required by the pivoting keel. Short-tacking to windward in flat seas and about 10 knots of true wind, the tester logged 5-plus knots at a 40-degree apparent-wind angle. The boat required care to avoid over-steering through the turns.
Deploying the bowsprit and hoisting the kite immediately raised the speed to 7-8 knots. Even in the puffs, the helm and heel angle remained comfortingly predictable. At all times, the boat’s behavior was as refined and satisfying as her looks.
Accommodations and Systems
Beneath the cuddy, the compact cabin contains a V-berth forward, two settee benches, and space for a chemical toilet. Access to the small auxiliary is through the cabin sole—excellent for a boat of this size.
The 9hp Yanmar is supplied by 7 gallons of diesel. With that modest fuel capacity, plus 12 gallons of water and a 110AH electrical bank, the auxiliary and systems support the basics rather than extended cruising.
The Verdict
The Tofinou 8 succeeds as a design statement that also sails with real polish. The swing keel and removable mahogany make ownership practical, while the arched traveler and well-led controls keep the cockpit serene. She’s quick in light air and lively downwind, though the stubby rudder demands a measured hand. Her compact cabin and limited tankage suit day sailing better than living aboard, extended cruising, or passage work.
Pros
- Hand-laid E-glass hull with internal frames and stringers for stiffness
- High-aspect swing keel with engineered hydraulics
- Fixed-keel option for maximum performance
- Teak cockpit and foredeck with easily removable mahogany coamings
- Nimble, predictable handling
- Strong light-air and downwind speed
Cons
- Stubby rudder associated with the pivoting keel requires careful steering
- Compact cabin limits liveaboard or extended-cruise use
- Small fuel and water capacities suit day sailing more than passage work
