First test sail of the X-34

by Robert McClelland on 28 Aug 2007 The X-Yachts test crew, headed by Lars Jeppesen, sailed out on Monday the 20th August for the first test sail with the new baby, the X-34. The sun was shining and the wind south easterly 10 to 15 knots.

By Motor

The test started under engine cruising out of the Haderslev Fjord, with the standard 20 HP engine pushing the yacht at 6.5 knots with very little noise and effort towards Årøsund.

Just before exiting the fiord, the main sail was set and immediately the balance and ease of handling could be enjoyed. The X-34 responded well to any rudder movement and the steering wheel provided full control of the boat. Any gust was handled well and the good stability could be felt instantly. Motoring into the wind the V-shaped bow section cut nicely through the waves and hardly any bouncing was felt.

Under Sail

Just South of Årøsund the crew set the gennaker and sailed onto a broad reach. The X-34 accelerated easily to 8.4 knots without any effort and with such nice balance that the crew could just let the helmsman steer the yacht through waves and gusts. Even on a very tight reach the stability and easy handling was proven.

Having set the cruising furling jib, the crew went on a short beat where the good up-wind performance was tested and proven. She moved with 6.5 knots and about 40 degrees true wind angle up the beat and again the crew could relax while the helmsman, Dan Pedersen, enjoyed an easy time at the helm.

The whole test crew was impressed and very satisfied with the first test sail. They are now looking forward to pushing the new X-34 through her paces in the coming days.

Chief engineer, Niels Ditmar, commented upon returning to the X-Yachts marina: 'She is so well balanced and easy to handle that the whole family will enjoy sailing her.'

Torsten Bastiansen, Export Manager, added: 'The X-34 is a perfect addition to our performance cruising range and will give a lot of pleasure to her new owners. The non-overlapping jib will make sailing her easy and enjoyable.'
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For more information www.x-yachts.com

North South Yachting - Australian head office
The Quays Marina
1856 Pittwater Road, Church Point NSW 2105

Tel (612) 9998 9600
Fax (612) 9979 3244


www.northsouthyachting.com.au