You can always count on J/Boats to come up with something different.

The Rhode Island-based company has been setting trends for three decades and once again its latest boat, the J/95, is a little bit different from anything else in its size bracket.

With its carbon rig, near-plumb bow and low, sleek profile, this 31-footer looks to be as quick and handsome as any other boat in the line, but in fact it breaks new ground – it’s the first-ever J/Boat to feature a centerboard. The pivoting board/lead keel combo draws just 3’ when raised, and 5’5” with the board down. This opens up an entire new customer base for J/Boats – those who live in the shallow estuaries and rivers around much of our coastline. More specifically, designer Rod Johnstone is targeting the “growing number of waterfront homeowners in thin water areas, who would sail on home wates if they had the right sailboat.”

Down below there is adequate accommodation for a couple to overnight on board, and a 15hp diesel auxiliary. It wouldn’t be a J/boat without a retractable sprit on which to fly a big A-sail, and the cockpit ergonomics look just right.

Hull #1 should be in the water in February. We’ll keep you posted.

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