Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 in the Crown Series Regatta
Huon sailing legend, Jeff Sharp, raced his new Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 in the Bellerive Yacht Club's Crown Series Regatta last weekend.
Launched in November 2016 and sporting carbon Doyle sails (included a brand new square top mainsail), Jeff decided it was time to put 'French Connection' to the test. I had the honour of playing bowman and we raced in 'Spinnaker Cruising' Division 3 up against an Adams 12, Northshore 38, First 33.7, a Jeanneau SO39i, a Kaufman 32 and many larger and smaller yachts. And, despite 6 boats giving us time under PHS handicap, we were consistently at the front of the fleet, finishing most races in 2nd or 3rd place across the line!
At the end of the regatta, we were extremely pleased to come away with a respectable 4th on handicap.
It is quite extraordinary how this little cruising yacht performs and with such simplicity. The 349 is also very forgiving in the gusty Derwent conditions. While most yachts are 'on their ear' in the gusts, the 349 simply sits on the chine and just goes! And, off the breeze, we were unstoppable in a heavy blow with the kite up.
Jeff makes no secret of the fact that he's 'getting on' in age and he feels the 349 was a wise purchase. The ease of switching between wheels through tacks and gybes along with the forgiving nature of the boat, means he can continue racing for many years to come.
Click the link for more information about the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 or contact us.
