Four years ago, the Latitude 46 shipyard in La Rochelle presented the Tofinou 9.7, an unusually elegant and sporty daysailer. YACHT has analysed the boat in detail in the test presented. The Tofinou 7.9 is now being added as a smaller sister in continuation of the proven concept. Yacht architect Michele Molino has also supplied the design for the new and smaller boat. The elongated, classic lines with low freeboard and a pronounced positive deck projection are typical of his style.
In the YACHT test in the bay, the Molino design demonstrated sporty and powerful sailing characteristics in moderate wind conditions. Nevertheless, the boat remains extremely easy to handle with a self-tacking jib and is also largely suitable for single-handed sailing. And; on the downwind leg, the large gennaker can significantly increase the fun factor. The full test report will appear in a forthcoming issue of YACHT
Like its bigger sister, the small Tofinou 7.9 is also available with a fixed T-shaped keel and single rudder or with a hydraulic swivelling keel and shorter, double rudder blades. With this and a width of just 2.30 metres, the smart daysailer is also very easy to transport on a trailer and can also be launched and retrieved via the ramp.
Many choices, many options
An engine is not specified in the standard equipment ex shipyard. However, the shipyard offers various options. The simplest solution is the outboard motor (electric or petrol) attached to the stern. A small built-in diesel with an output of 10 hp or an electric pod motor with an output of 3 kW is also possible. Without engine and without sails, the Tofinou 7.9 costs 98,050 euros gross ex shipyard incl. 19% VAT.
The sheets, halyards and trim lines are redirected below deck to the two winch platforms mounted in the centre of the cockpit. This means that the helmsman can easily operate all functions himself without having to leave his place at the tiller. Exciting detail: The seats of the forward dents are removable and can be used as a cockpit table when pushed together.
The small Tofinou also offers sleeping accommodation for two people in the foredeck. A small companionway leads from the cockpit into the slip cabin. However, there is not much living space below deck. But it's certainly enough for a weekend for two.
Technical data Tofinou 7.9
- Designer: Michele Molino
- CE design category: C
- Hull length: 7.94 m
- Waterline length: 6.20 m
- Width: 2.30 m
- Draught with fixed keel: 1.70 m
- Draught with swing keel: 0.68-1.95 m
- Weight: 1.2 tonnes
- Mainsail: 21.0 m²
- Self-tacking jib: 10.0 m²
- Code Zero: 25.0 m²
- Gennaker: 52,0 m²
- Base price ex shipyard: 98,050 euros (gross, incl. 19 % VAT)
