Trailer Sailoer - Beneteau 21.7 vs. 25.7

[Tim Good]

We're thinking of buying a Beneteau that we can move around and launch relatively easily on the coast and inland. Although we have been advised that the 21.7 is a lovely boat and trailer sails very well, we've also been told of a few downsides. For example the lack of fixed toilet and problems using an outboard in rough weather.

The 25.7 would be the next logical step and overcome the above concerns but I feel it might be a nightmare to get on and off a trailer. I would also assume it could not be launched directly from a trailer hence reducing the number of places you could put in at.

What is everyone thoughts on this. appreciate any advice especially those who have sailed one of the above or better yet, have one.

If you have too much information to type them feel free to give me a call: 0117 94 666 33

Thanks

Tim

 

[arfa]

Hi tim, apologies for not getting back to your pm but I hadn't logged in for a while. The 21 is light enough to trail and I am told setting up the rigging takes under an hour. I don't trail mine and just leave her in the water. The 21 is light, responsive and alot of fun - more like a dinghy with a lid. I have never sailed the 25 so can't comment but I do race against a 27 and they certainly handle rougher conditions better.
The 21 is fine up to force 5 where you will already be heavily reefed down. in short chop it can be uncomfortable and cavitation of the outboard can be an issue. CreAture comforts on board are more limited on the 21, I have an unused porta potti on board.
You must ask yourself what type of sailing you want to do. If it is lighter winds exploring around the coast during the day then a 21 will do just fine - easier to trail, handle and rig.
If you want to challenge yourself more then the 25 might be worth considering, especially if staying on board for longer periods. However the cost goes up dramatically with a 25 and must be born in mind along with whether your car is powerful enough to trail it.
I am biased but I think the 211 (older version) is better as it has positive bouyancy and better value second hand - mine is not for sale ! They are real rockets and easily blast along at six knots in force 2-3.
Feel free to come back to me with questions

 

[Tim Good]

Thanks for that. We have in fact committed to buying the 21.7 in the mean time so just a few more q's on specifics really.

I understand it comes with a battery and 12v sockets. Do you have any advice in regards to hooking up at a marina to charge the battery or use 240v straight from the mains?

I am assuming a simple inverter could be used from the battery for 240v when sailing?

 

[davidpbo]

Thanks for that. We have in fact committed to buying the 21.7 in the mean time so just a few more q's on specifics really.

I understand it comes with a battery and 12v sockets. Do you have any advice in regards to hooking up at a marina to charge the battery or use 240v straight from the mains?

I am assuming a simple inverter could be used from the battery for 240v when sailing?

On my Jeanneau Tonic (23.5) if in a marina I use a Halfords (Double Insulated) Charger plugged in to a extension lead, my battery is in the cabin and it is only ever rigged temporarily for a few hours. The one I have charges the battery fairly rapidly then switches to pulsing at what I believe to be a maintenance current.

Using an inverter zaps the power very quickly. If it is a laptop I use a PSU designed for 12V rather than step the power up and back down again. At 12V even that pulls 5A at times.

On your other subject. Is the 25 Benneteau Trailerable behind a 4x4 in this country? I would have checked weights, dimensions etc. very very carefully. I know there are some 26' trailerable boats such as the Odin and Macgregor which are water ballasted. My 23.5 Tonic (heavy stub keel) is in in my humble opinion near the limit.

 

[arfa]

I only ever charge via the outboard as I only run the depth & log off the battery.
I am sure the 21 will be a fine choice - fairwinds !