You really don't see this every day: a cabin cruiser just 8.50 metres long that lifts its bow out of the water and roars away with gusto, despite having its sails recovered. This is made possible by the optional motorisation with up to 120 hp. Introducing the hermaphrodite.
No, the mast and sail wardrobe are not just decoration. The Imexus 28 can also sail slowly. And not at all badly for such a design. The appearance of the boat and its sailing behaviour do take a little getting used to. But anyone looking for a compromise between wind and petrol propulsion will be well served by this newcomer.
And there are quite a few of them. Hybrid ferries are particularly common in areas with strong tides. On the French Atlantic coast, for example. And the German Wadden Sea would also be ideal for such a construction. If the wind or current or both are too strong, or if time is running out to reach the next high tide in time, you simply start the engine.
Of course, the romance of sailing falls by the wayside a little. On the other hand, yachts like the Imexus open up new perspectives: for example, the range in the sailing area is greater. Instead of calling at the same places and bays every weekend, more distant destinations can now also be reached.
The safety aspect will also play a role for some water sports enthusiasts. With a few extra horsepower behind you, you always know you're on the safe side. In the event of impending trouble at sea, the next harbour can be reached far more quickly than would be possible under sail alone.
The Imexus even scores highly in terms of living comfort. Its special hull enables an interior concept that is kept free of bulkheads. This creates a surprising amount of space below deck for a boat of this size.
Of course, a compromise can never fully satisfy both sides. For example, sailors will criticise the lack of rudder feel or the weaker upwind characteristics due to the design. Nevertheless, it is worth looking into the concept. If only because it is at least one thing: an eye-catcher.
Find out more about the Imexus 28 in the test report in the new issue of YACHT (issue 3/09, available from newsagents now).
Pascal Schürmann
Editor YACHT
