Overview
The J/99 is the newest addition to the J Sport range, combining headroom and comfortable interior accommodation with the tiller-driven responsiveness of a sport boat. The sail and deck plan are optimized for easy handling with fewer crew, and incorporate the latest developments from the award-winning J/121 and the new Offshore Sailing World champion J/112E.
Now more than ever, sailors are attracted to adventure-filled, signature events (Fastnet, Middle Sea, Chicago-Mac, etc.) where straight-line speed, sail handling, strategy and weather routing are all equally put to the test. The J/99 is designed to excel in these events (both fully crewed and short-handed) while delivering the exhilarating, family-friendly experience the J Sport range is known for.
“The J/99 opens up a wide range of sailing possibilities,” commented designer Alan Johnstone. “The versatile sail plan, balanced hull form and efficient cockpit will work as well for short-handed offshore sailing as for weekend sailing with friends. The J/99 packs a lot of performance and versatility into a manageable size and budget.”
Unlike most short-handed racers, the J/99 has a versatile cockpit for both day-cruising and day-racing that can accommodate as many as 6 comfortably. The deck plan reveals several J/121 inspired additions including the floating jib lead system, 8:1 inhauler system, cockpit-led controls (including outhaul, cunningham, and vang), an optional inner forestay provision, and an optional water ballast system. The standard backstay is a 48:1 double-ended, cascading system with an option for an integral hydraulic pump. The two self-tailing primary winches are located near the aft end of the coaming to allow easier trimming by the driver when in short-handed mode.
The J/99 is tiller steered with a choice of a single centerline, balanced rudder, or an optional twin rudder configuration (which is popular for offshore short-handed sailing when using auto-pilot). A wheel package is also available as an option.
The J/99 interior is roomy with clean lines and uncluttered spaces. The main cabin features two full length settee berths with optional flip-up pilot berths. The L-shaped galley has everything for the weekend cruise including a two burner stove, large ice-box and inboard sink with pressure water system. There’s a proper sit-down, forward-facing, navigation station to starboard. The drop-leaf main cabin table is a nice extra, usually seen only on cruising J’s. There are standard matching double cabins aft with privacy doors. This versatile accommodation plan sleeps 2-4 on the high side for good offshore weight distribution, and up to 8 for the occasional inshore regatta or weekend cruise. The forepeak is dedicated as a head and sail storage area, and otherwise kept as light as possible.
Additional Information
High Quality Composite Engineering & Construction: The J/99 exceeds ISO 12215 requirements for Category A offshore sailing. The hull and deck are built STRONG with the SCRIMP resin-infusion molding process – a molding process proven to yield higher strength laminates for long lasting integrity in an environmentally friendly manner.
Volvo D1-20 engine: The J/99 is equipped with the fuel efficient Volvo D1-20 auxiliary engine with sail drive, two blade bronze prop and keyless engine panel. The two-bank 12V battery system includes a dedicated engine start battery (70amp AGM) and a 100amp AGM house battery. A DC Distribution panel is mounted outboard in the navigation station.
AG+ Custom Mast Section: The J/99 mast is an all-new, custom engineered alloy section (anodized black) developed specifically for the J/99 by AG+ Spars of France. The unique integral mainsail track of this mast accommodates either luff cars or bolt rope. This innovation, first developed for the J/112E, eliminates over 12 meters (40’) of fasteners and glue and allows engineers to take advantage of the increased stiffness that the integral track geometry provides for final the spar section calculations. A tapered top section and quality hardware result in a rig that delivers the best performance & value. The mast is keel stepped with an adjustable base and includes a pre-formed mast wedge as well as a watertight internal dam including drain above deck.
Carbon Fiber Fixed & Watertight Bow Sprit: The J/99 is the first J with a fixed carbon bowsprit. The sprit is easily removed by way of two bolts just aft of the stem, and is supported by a Dyneema bobstay to the bow. The primary benefits of a fixed bowsprit for offshore sailing are reduced weight in the bow and better protection against water intrusion.
Engineered Low VCG Keel: The low VCG keel of the J/99 is a high-tech two-metal keel (draft of 1.9m/ 6.5’) comprised of an encapsulated cast iron fin with integral lead wedge bulb – a similar construction method as the J/112E and J/121. This keel provides the J/99 with exceptional stability.