Upwind in the light, Rebb'l gave a much better VMG, sailing low rather than pinched. The keel has only a 500mm chord and consequently requires reasonable boat speed to provide lift. The light conditions on the day meant we never saw anything much over 5.5 knots on the log when sailing, however Edlin says he's regularly had Rebb'l up to 15 knots when two-sail reaching in a heavy breeze. In conclusion, no question, the concept of a light displacement, pilothouse motorsailer is highly valid.
| SPECIFICATIONS | |
| LOD | 10.66M |
| LWL | 10.1M |
| BOA | 3.55M |
| Draft | 2.4M |
| Displacement(Light) | 3600KG |
| Ballast | 1340KG |
| Ballast Ratio | 36% |
| Designer | Richard Edlin |
| Engine | Yanmar 4JH3 |
| Horseower | 100HP |
| Water Capacity | 350L |
| Fuel Capacity | 280L |
While Rebb'l didn't meet Edlin's admittedly high, pre-launch performance target under power, her current ability to cruise at 8.5 knots under power regardless of what Huey delivers or doesn't deliver on the day, opens up cruising possibilities.
As for next time, given a little design tweaking, the 15-knot target under power is achievable while retaining the more than acceptable sailing performance. With most families experiencing increasing pressure on their leisure time, there's a definite niche market for the light displacement, performance motorsailer.
Well-spotted, Richard.
