2024 J Boats 32' _{(9.75 m)} J/99

The J/99 (32.6') does it all - combining great sailing performance and stability with below-decks comfort in a boat that can be sailed by just one or two people. The deck layout and sailplan are optimized for easy handling, while the roomy cockpit accommodates 8+ for fun daysailing. Want to jump into the next adventure-style overnight race or cruise rally and can’t find crew? No problem. The J/99 will reward you with easy, high-speed sailing whether solo, twin, or with the whole gang.

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 has a versatile cockpit for both day-cruising and day-racing that can comfortably accommodate as many as 6. The deck layout has several optimized features including a floating jib lead system, 8:1 inhauler system, cockpit-led outhaul, cunningham, and double-ended boom vang. The 48:1 cascading backstay system leads to both sides of the cockpit. The two self-tailing primary winches are located within reach of the driver.  

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 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 stove, an ice box, and an inboard sink with a pressure water system. There’s a proper sit-down, forward-facing, nav station to starboard. The drop-leaf main cabin table is a nice extra, usually seen only on cruising J’s. There are matching double aft cabins with privacy doors. This versatile layout allows 2-4 crew to sleep on the windward side for good offshore weight distribution, and up to 8 for the occasional inshore regatta or weekend cruise. The forepeak is dedicated for the head and sail storage and otherwise kept as light as possible. 

J/99 Specification Features

• High-Quality Composite Engineering & Construction: The J/99 exceeds ISO 12215 requirements for Category A offshore sailing. The hull and deck are built STRONG by J/Composites of France utilizing the SCRIMP resin-infusion molding process – a molding process proven to yield higher strength laminates for long-lasting integrity in an environmentally friendly manner. 

• 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 accommodates either luff cars or bolt rope. This innovation eliminates over 12 meters (40’) of fasteners and glue and allows engineers to take advantage of the increased stiffness the integral track geometry provides for final spar section calculations. A tapered top section and quality hardware result in a rig that delivers the best performance value. 

• Carbon Fiber Fixed 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 (Vertical Center of Gravity) 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.  

J/99 Recognition and Awards

The J/99 's performance and capabilities have been widely recognized by the world's yachting press as a truly fun, fast, evolutionary boat from the J/Design and J/Composites build teams. Recent awards include the SAIL's Best Boats- Performance Award, SAILING WORLD's Boat of the Year- Best Crossover Boat, and the British Yachting Awards - Performance Yacht award.

“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 are ideal for short-handed offshore sailing as well as weekend sailing with friends. The J/99 packs a lot of performance and versatility into a manageable size and budget.”