The duo is currently the benchmark in the offshore racing scene: Jean-Pierre Kelbert (JPK) builds and sails the boats, designer Jacques Valer draws the cracks and designs the layouts. The track record of this successful collaboration is impressive: the "Courrier Recommandé", a JPK 11.80, has just won the overall classification of the prestigious Rolex Middle Sea Race 2018 after a calculated time; and two other JPK 10.80 boats finished in the top ten of the classification. In addition, there are numerous other victories and top placings in offshore regattas such as the increasingly popular transatlantic classic Transquadra.
The shipyard in Larmor Plage in Brittany is now working on a new boat, the JPK 10.30, which will be positioned in the programme between the 10.80 (test in YACHT 19/2014) and the smaller 10.10 (test in YACHT 25/2010) and essentially adopts their concept. This means a strong focus on single and double-handed ocean racing, optimised alignment according to IRC handicap, high performance, but still designed for touring and family-friendly despite its sportiness.
So far, the shipyard has only published a rough outline drawing of the new boat. Compared to its sister models, Jacques Valer has made the chine edges even more pronounced and extended them all the way to the bow. The designer hopes that this will result in even earlier planing and more stability on fast space wind courses. Another striking feature is the inwardly stepped cabin superstructure, similar to the sister ship JPK 10.80. This also gives the solo skipper a view forwards in the direction of travel from the inside. And the genoa can be sheeted tighter and lower at the front.
JPK has also transferred the layout of the fittings on deck from the 10.80 to the new 10.30 ship. The centreboard tracks for the genoa are mounted transversely on the deck and are controlled by a 3D system. The traveller is positioned behind the rudder head of the tiller steering to give the helmsman maximum freedom of movement in the cockpit and easy access to all functions.
The JPK 10.30 is equipped with two rudder blades and an IRC-optimised fin keel. A T-keel with a lead bomb is available as an option. A two-saling rig made of aluminium is standard. A carbon fibre mast is also on the list of options. As with the larger 10.80, the interior of the new 10.30 from JPK will be simple and sober, yet functional. Two cabins as well as a separate toilet area, a navigation system and a galley unit ensure comfort for the crew on long trips and a certain touring suitability for the family.
The first JPK 10.30 boat is due to be ready and ready to sail in March 2019. The first production boats will be launched on the market at a price of around 136,000 euros (without sails).
