Swiss yacht builder Josef Schuchter has every reason to be happy. More than twelve years ago, he presented a new sports boat, the Esse 850 (test in YACHT 4/2005), which has since become one of the leading and recognised one-design classes on the international stage. The successful design was created by Umberto Felci.
Esse Boats, based in Stäfa on Lake Zurich, is now launching the 850 in two modified versions, which are aimed less at the exclusively sporty and regatta-focussed sailors. Instead, it is aimed at customers who are looking for a more versatile boat concept, away from the standardised class, but with more fun factors.
As the Esse 850 LE (LE stands for luxury and efficiency), the slim, fast boat now comes as a single-handed daysailer with a self-tacking jib. To compensate for the possible lack of crew weight on the high edge, the LE version is equipped with a carbon rig. The stiffer profile does not require a backstay. Unlike the regatta version, the mainsail is connected to the mast with ball-bearing slides and remains permanently attached. For greater manoeuvrability and improved safety, the Esse 850 LE can also be fitted with a furling system. There is a choice of a small built-in diesel (Yanmar 1 GM) or an electric motor from Torqeedo. However, the drives are only available at extra cost.
The second version Esse 850 L (luxury) was specially developed for sailors in shallow water areas. The T-keel on this boat is only 1.50 metres deep (standard: 2.20 metres), but has more ballast. And the boat has a slightly shorter aluminium rig. The L version will also be equipped with a self-tacking jib from the shipyard.
The LE version of the Esse 850 with carbon fibre mast will be launched on the market for 88,360 euros (gross) - that is around 15,175 euros more than the standard boat with aluminium rig (base price 73,185 euros, gross). A set of good sails (main, jib, gennaker) will cost an additional 11,000 euros, while the built-in engines will cost an extra 15,350 euros (built-in diesel) and 14,150 euros (electric motor).
Esse 850 Swiss Championship 2016
Downloads:
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
