For a long time, Jeanneau's sports-oriented Sun Fast programme was quiet. The last time the French company presented a new project for the performance sector was in 2007 with the Sun Fast 3200. The boat (test in YACHT 22/2007) was designed specifically for the requirements of long-distance single and double-handed regattas, in particular for participation in the transatlantic race "Transquadra". With success: in the 2008 and 2011 races, the Sun Fast 3200 even achieved its own class classification with a strong field at the start.
Jeanneau is now presenting a larger sister, the Sun Fast 3600, which is conceptually and visually very similar to the smaller version. The external features of Daniel Andrieu's design remain almost unchanged. This means: double rudder blades, deep L-keel with lead ballast, fixed bow nose for gennaker and/or code zero as well as a high and performance-orientated sail plan. The striking difference: the new boat has distinctive chine edges (chines) for better performance and more rigidity, especially on upwind courses.
Although the concept of the new Sun Fast 3600 is also designed for long offshore races, compared to its smaller sister, this boat is even more suitable for short-distance and triangular races with a crew. The aim is to create a new standardised class.
The traveller is no longer mounted right at the back of the boat, it can now be operated from the centre of the cockpit. A special feature is the steering system with two tiller arms on each rudder blade. This ensures double safety when travelling and also makes steering easier on the long strokes. Alternatively, the Sun Fast 3600 is also available with two steering wheels.
For the interior, Jeanneau has adopted the concept of the smaller 3200, with two double cabins aft, a long saloon, but without a living and sleeping area forward. The wet room with toilet is located there instead. The interior of the larger boat will also be rather sober and functional in line with the sporty concept. Here too, removable storage bags made of sailcloth will be fitted instead of fixed storage lockers.
With a strong focus on weight reduction, the hull and deck of the new boat in the Sun Fast range are also manufactured using the vacuum infusion process with a balsa wood core. Jeanneau is only announcing the premiere of the Sun Fast 3200 for the 2013 autumn boat shows. An initial price estimate will be communicated next summer.
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Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
